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Brussels   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things To Do in Brussels

Updated February 2, 2023

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum , take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop ( Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a good place to start). The Grand-Place is another

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Grand-Place Grand-Place free

Whether you're just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can't miss the Grand-Place. This square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits in the heart of Brussels and is renowned for its many Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. The Grand-Place is close to many of the city's main attractions, including the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and the beloved Manneken Pis . At Christmas, enjoy the Winter Wonders light show at night along with a massive Christmas tree, and every August, admire an enormous carpet made of flowers inside the Grand-Place.

Travelers love the Grand-Place for its stunning architecture. Recent reviewers suggested visiting during the day and night; during the day to see the details of the architecture, and at night to witness the vibrant life that takes over the square. However, a common complaint among tourists was the constant crowds (and higher prices), but that's to be expected at such a big attraction. 

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral free

Built in the Brabantine Gothic style and so named for its chapel dedicated to St. Michael and for housing the relics of St. Gudula, this cathedral's current structure dates back to the 11th century and took some 300 years to build. Inside, you will find stained-glass windows, statues, paintings, a new Grenzing organ and a crypt that may contain the remains of St. Gudula with ancient Roman graffiti on it. Below the current church are the remains of a 10th-century Romanesque church. Outside the cathedral is a square where you can sit on benches under the shade of honey locust trees.

Past visitors appreciated the architecture of the church, with some noting the beauty of the stained-glass windows in particular and described it as "amazing" and "stunning."

Musical Instruments Museum Musical Instruments Museum

A former Old England department store built in the 19th century, the Musical Instruments Museum, also known as the "MIM," is housed in an Art Nouveau building located about a half-mile from the Grand-Place . Inside you'll find more than 1,200 instruments from around the globe displayed across four galleries. The museum gives visitors the opportunity to hear what these instruments sound like, as well. Inside, a restaurant touts fantastic views of the city.

Recent visitors were impressed with the variety of instruments inside the museum, as well as with the building itself. Some advised that there are few signs in English, so it can be a bit confusing. Many suggested parting with a few more euros to take advantage of the audio guide. Travelers also recommend taking a trip to the cafe, which offers great views of Brussels.

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Parc du Cinquantenaire Parc du Cinquantenaire free

Meaning "50th anniversary," Cinquantenaire Park was built in 1880 in honor of the 50th anniversary celebration of the independence of Belgium. It is a large French-style park inside the city surrounded by museums and filled with gardens with a large triumphal arch. The park also hosts a variety of festivities throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

Past visitors said the park is a relaxing and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels. They also recommend checking out the car tunnel that runs underneath the park.

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert free

Want to get in a little shopping while visiting Brussels? Make time for a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a Renaissance-style arcade built in the mid-1800s. With a glass roof once known as the "umbrella of Brussels," the building is worth seeing whether or not you want to indulge in any retail therapy. Around 6 million visitors come to the Galeries every year to enjoy stores selling everything from clothing to chocolate to diamonds. The Galeries Royales also house restaurants, art galleries, a cinema and theaters. Victor Hugo even once enjoyed hanging out here.

Past visitors said it makes a great place to see on a rainy day and described the building as stunning. Many also recommended checking out the extensive chocolate shops.

Horta Museum Horta Museum

Art lovers should not pass up the chance to see where Victor Horta – one of the founders of the art nouveau movement – lived and worked. The home, which was built between 1898 and 1901 features murals, stained glass and mosaics that are largely intact from its original construction. As you walk through, keep your eyes open for Horta's influences, from the wing-like skylights to the winding banisters to the overhead lights stemming down from the ceiling like vines.

Recent travelers said the museum is a must-see attraction for architecture aficionados, but warned that you cannot take photos inside the museum and that lines are sometimes long.

Cantillon Brewery Cantillon Brewery

When it comes down to it, a trip to Brussels isn't complete unless you've sampled the beer. Cantillon has been brewing traditional Belgian beers, including lambic, gueuze, faro and kriek, since 1900. During your tour, you may learn about brewing, bottling or even how barrels are cleaned, and if you plan ahead, you can even attend a public brewing session to see the action first-hand.

Recent visitors said they enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning how the beer is made. Others enjoyed sampling the unique taste of lambic beer. Reviewers recommended signing up for a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Mini-Europe Mini-Europe

This theme park north of central Brussels features scale models of more than 350 of Europe's most famous landmarks, from Athens' Acropolis and the canals of Venice to London's Big Ben and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Each replica comes complete with visual and sound effects. Be sure to bring your kids: Many of the park's miniature attractions are interactive, such as Naples' Mount Vesuvius and the Berlin Wall. 

Many past visitors agreed that Mini-Europe is a great place to bring children. They described it as adorable, cute and informative and recommended adding it to your itinerary.

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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels' historic center, is a group of six different art museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, they offer a collection of 20,000 works, dating from the 15th century to modern day. Walking through the halls, travelers will be able to see works from Rubens, Rodin, Gauguin, Magritte and many more. There's also an impressive collection of works from the Flemish school, including Pieter Bruegel.

Past travelers were impressed with the museum's vast collection of art. Considering the size of the collection, many suggested allotting 2 1/2 or more hours to not just see the works, but to appreciate and enjoy them.

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

For those interested in military history, this museum makes for a great afternoon. Located within Cinquantenaire Park , the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History traces the world's military history over the last 10 centuries, displaying weaponry, uniforms and airplanes from various points in time. Spend a fair amount of time in the airplane hangar, which features some 130 aircraft, including zeppelins, F-16s and more. 

Recent visitors said this museum is well worth a visit and recommend seeking out the view of the city atop the terrace of the triumphal arch. Some warned that no cash is accepted and advised allotting several hours to spend in the museum.

Museum of Natural Sciences Museum of Natural Sciences

Set aside plenty of time to spend at this museum, which will delight the science and dinosaur lovers of all ages. With some 38 million specimens on hand (only a fraction of which are on display), this museum has the largest natural history collection in Europe behind those in Paris and London. Don't miss the dinosaur gallery, the largest room in Europe devoted to dinos, to see a replica of the largest and most complete male T. rex known today, along with 30 complete iguanodon skeletons that were discovered in Belgium 1878. 

Past visitors said the museum is a great activity for kids, with many praising the dinosaur collection. Some reviewers advised visiting a weekday to avoid crowds.

Atomium Atomium

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels, the Atomium is a depiction of an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times that was originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. Today, it houses multiple exhibitions, a panoramic view over the city and a restaurant with excellent views, and is considered to be a symbol of both Brussels and Belgium.

If there's one reason to head to the Atomium, it's the spectacular views of the city, according to many recent visitors. Travelers advised that it is far from other attractions, however, and that there can be long lines.

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon Église Notre-Dame du Sablon free

Just south of the Grand-Place , the impressive  Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – which dates back to the 14th century – is worth a visit, according to recent travelers. The church's interior features two chapels dedicated to saints and decorated with marble statues. There are also statues of St. Paul and St. Augustine inside.

Past visitors said they were impressed by the statues and stained-glass windows in the church and used words like "stunning" and "magnificent" to describe the interior.

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Belgian Comic Strip Center Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is the birthplace of many legendary comic characters, including Tintin and the Smurfs, and is also home to more than 700 comic strip artists. So it's no wonder the city pays tribute to the comic art in the form of a museum. The Belgian Comic Strip Center tells the story of European comics from their beginnings to modern day through a variety of permanent and temporary collections and a Comic Strip Library boasting more than 60,000 works.

Recent visitors enjoyed their experience at the Belgian Comic Strip Center with many feeling nostalgic to learn about comics they recall growing up. Past travelers were also impressed with the beauty of the art nouveau building, which was designed by architect Victor Horta (you can learn more about him at the Horta Museum).

Manneken-Pis Manneken-Pis free

This little boy has become a renowned Brussels landmark. The Manneken Pis (which translates to "little man pee" in Dutch) is a bronze statue of a child relieving himself that also serves as a public fountain. Though the original statue dates back to the 17th century, the statue on display is actually a replica. Located just south of the Grand-Place , the statue has been the recipient of about 800 different costumes, many of which you can see at the Museum of the City of Brussels. He's even been kidnapped and returned multiple times. The statue's origin story is a bit disputed, but wherever it came from, its allure has endured.

Recent travelers were torn over Manneken Pis. Most agreed they were surprised by the boy's small size, and some maintain it's a must-see, while others say to skip it. Past visitors also warned that it is crowded at most times of the day.

Train World Train World

Train enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at Train World, which sits about 3 miles north of the Grand-Place . Inside you can see restored train stations, dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, learn about the history of Belgium's railway, see the oldest remaining steam engine in Europe, explore the reasons people use trains from travel to commuting and more.

Past visitors said they loved the interactive exhibits and that their kids did not want to leave. They also recommended a visit to the on-site restaurant.

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27 Top Attractions & Things to do in Brussels

By Spencer Leasca · Last updated on March 3, 2024

The capital of Belgium might be best known as the headquarters of the European Union and the seat of the country’s Royal Family. But it is also a fabulous tourist destination.

Whether you are visiting on a day trip to stock up on chocolates and beer, spending a weekend to immerse yourself in culture, or going there for your annual holiday, you will have a wonderful time in Brussels.

The city oozes charm and sophistication. It has gorgeous Gothic churches as well as a variety of other medieval buildings. The historic tourist attractions in Brussels blend well with it’s 21st century attractions. There are many fine museums and galleries, historic statues and lovely green parks. For sure, travelers won’t lack for things to do in Brussels.

27. Place du Jeu de Balle

Also known as Vossenplein, The Place du Jeu de Balle is an historic square in the heart of the Marollen district. It is best known for a famous flea market that has operated there since 1873.

Fondly and appropriately referred to as the ‘Old Market’, this market is the only flea and antique market in the world to be open 365 days a year. When browsing through the various market stalls, you will find an eclectic mix of items for sale. They range from antique porcelain, vintage clothes and rare books to 19th-century crossbows, canvas artwork and old vinyl records.

The market is somewhere you can easily spend hours wandering around. Around the square, there are several shops you can browse in too.

26. Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

If you are fascinated by history and war, you will want to visit the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History.

Located within the historic Parc du Cinquantenaire, the captivating museum takes you on a journey from the Middle Ages to the dawn of the aviation age – focusing on battle, conflict and warfare. It showcases several galleries devoted to specific exhibits like the French empire, Russian Gallery and the Navy. Visitors can also take in its magnificent aviation hall and the arms and armour gallery.

Even if you are not a fan of the military or armed forces, it is worth coming here to see the outstanding panoramic views of Brussels from the top of the Triumphal Arch, which you can access from the museum.

25. Royal Theater Toone

If you are traveling to Brussels with children or should you want to unleash the big kid in you, be sure to visit the Théâtre Royal de Toone.

Locally known as Toone, this folkloric theater specializes in puppet shows. Founded in 1830 by Antoine ‘Toone’ Genty, it is now the only authentic marionette performance still operating in the city. Notably, many of the plays they present are in Marollien or Marols. The traditional dialect of Brussels.

During the performances, other languages are spoken. These shows customarily incorporate the essence of zwanze – a quintessential form of sarcastic humor that is distinctly Brusselian. As well as the shows, the theater has a small museum of puppetry and a tavern.

24. Comic strip murals

Brussels has been synonymous with comic books since Tintin and Spirou launched around the 1930s.

Although the city hosts the iconic comic book museum – the Belgian Comic Strip Centre – it also boasts several murals devoted to characters like Lucky Luck, The Smurfs, Gaston Lagaffe, Tintin and Spirou. These murals illuminate the side of buildings and are so prevalent you can even book a guided bike or walking tour to see some of the most popular ones.

If you prefer to tour them independently, pick up a map and head off for a self-guided exploration. Be sure to have your camera ready when you check out Brousaille Wall, Victor Sackville Wall, Le Jeune Albert Wall and Olivier Rameau’s Wall.

23. Bois de la Cambre

If you want to relax during your visit to Brussels, there is no better place to do this than at The Bois de la Cambre.

One of the larger public recreational spaces in the city, the park was named after La Cambre Abbey. Its layout is reminiscent of the manicured parklands of England and features immaculately cut grass and bosky woodland. There is a lovely path to go walking or jogging on, and children will enjoy the opportunity to play on the playground or go on a pony ride.

Set within the center of the park, Chalet Robinson sits on Robinson Island. There you will find a terrific restaurant and will be able to rent out pedalos or boats and partake in a friendly game of pétanque.

22. Horta Museum

If you are a fan of the Art Nouveau movement, make sure you take the opportunity to visit The Horta Museum.

Situated on Rue Américaine, this museum is devoted to the life, vision, philosophy and work of the acclaimed architect Victor Horta. Presented in his former townhouse residence, which dates back to 1898, the museum features on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

The museum showcases permanent displays of furniture, art objects and utensils. All of which were designed by Horta and his peers. You can also see documents that convey certain aspects of his life and the time. In addition, the museum showcases temporary exhibitions that further highlight the excellence of the man and his art. If you go there, be warned photography is not allowed in the museum.

21. Parlamentarium

You might be aware of the European Parliament. But do you know what it does and how it may impact your everyday life? Well, if not, then you might want to pay a visit to the Parlamentarium .

Situated within the impressive Espace Léopold on Place du Luxembourg, this serves as the visitor center for the European Union. Opened in 2011, it features notable attractions like a role-playing game, a massive interactive floor map and a 360° cinema.

Whilst at the Parlamentarium, you can do a self-guided tour – which is available in 24 languages. During it, you will gain a deeper insight into the sometimes maligned institution and learn more about what they are doing to counter some of the continent’s most pressing issues.

20. Museum of Natural Sciences

Are you fascinated by dinosaurs? Then pencil in a trip to the Museum of Natural Sciences .

You will have to head to Rue Vautier 29 to do so. But once you are there, you will experience the wonders of The Dinosaur Hall. Officially the largest museum hall in the world solely devoted to dinosaurs, it features the famous Ishango bone that the Belgian geologist Jean de Heinzelin de Braucourt discovered in 1960 in the Belgian Congo.

Incorporated within the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, other exhibits at the museum include a collection of fossilized Iguanodon skeletons uncovered in 1878. Dinosaurs aside, you can discover more about the evolution of the human body in the Gallery of Humankind and travel back in time via the Gallery of Evolution too.

19. Cantillon Brewery

Belgium is renowned for the quality of its beer. So, if you are a fan of amber nectar, it would be churlish not to try a few local samples. One of the best places to do this in Brussels is on a tour of the Cantillon Brewery.

A traditional family-run brewery which opened in 1900, you’ll find it at Rue Gheude within the Anderlecht district of the city. It features original equipment and beer cellars used by Paul Cantillon, who founded the establishment.

Whilst there, you can tour their facility and try out some of their fabulous lambic-style beers. These include Kriek, a brew made with cherries, or Fou’ Foune, a beverage derived from apricot. If any beer takes your fancy, you can buy some from their shop.

18. Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

For art lovers, The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium should be a massive drawcard during your visit to Brussels. Comprising not one but six different museums, they collectively house some of the country’s most important cultural and artistic treasures.

The six institutions are the Magritte, Oldmasters, Antoine Wiertz, Constantin Meunier, Fin-de-Siècle and modern museum. Between them, these venues showcase an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and drawings that date back to the early 15th century.

Exploring the complex of museums is among most popular things to do in Brussels. Expect to spend a lot of your time marveling at the works of celebrated artists like Robert Campin, Rogier van der Weyden, Anthony van Dyck, Bruegel, Peter Paul Rubens and Jacob Jordaens.

17. Autoworld

If you love cars, then Autoworld is somewhere you will have to visit when you go to the Parc du Cinquantenaire. Situated in the South Hall, this fantastic vintage car museum boasts a vast collection of automobiles from Europe and the USA.

The collection spans the late 19th century up until the 1990s. It features a Bentley made in 1928 and a Cord and Bugatti from 1930. It also presents Minervas and several limousines owned by the Belgian Royal Family.

In addition, several Belgian-made vehicles like Fondu, Vivinus, Imperia and FN are on display. Along with various other sports cars, passenger cars, motorcycles, carriages and fire engines. Throughout the year, the museum also runs celebrated events for the automotive industry.

16. Royal Palace

Separated from Brussels Park by a stately square called Place des Palais, the Royal Palace is one of the city’s most impressive examples of Neoclassical architecture. As construction started in 1783 and was not completed until 1934, this should give you an idea of how expansive the building is.

Although it is the official palace of the Belgian monarchy, the king and queen do not use it as their royal residence. However, as is tradition, they open their doors to the general public for five weeks every year in July and August.

At this time, you can visit it for free and gain access to certain rooms. Some of these rooms contain state portraits of Leopold I, Napoleon, Leopold II and Louis Philippe I.

15. Serres Royales De Laeken

Brussels can get a bit nippy in the winter. So, a good place to escape this chill is The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken.

Located within the Avenue du Parc Royal, this magnificent complex of classically designed, heated greenhouses features tropical, sub-tropical and cold zones. Created in 1874 on behalf of King Leopold II, under the jurisdiction of Alphonse Balat, the complex also features arcades, pavilions and several cupolas.

It now belongs to the Belgian Royal Family, who only open it to the general public a handful of days in the year. If you can visit it when it is open, you should see its famous Royal Botanic Collection. It includes the world’s oldest and largest collection of camellias cultivated in a greenhouse setting.

14. Parc du Cinquantenaire

As previously mentioned, The Parc du Cinquantenaire is home to The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. However, there is much more than that to Jubelpark – as it is colloquially known.

The beautiful green space covers 30 hectares within the eastern part of the city’s European Quarter. It was inaugurated in the 19th century and has beautifully landscaped grounds with fountains, ponds, waterfalls and floral gardens.

The park features a U-shaped building complex that houses numerous institutions of high cultural relevance. These include a centerpiece memorial arch, the Art & History Museum and the Autoworld vintage car. It also features a monument dedicated to Belgian Pioneers in the Congo, The Temple of Passions and the Great Mosque of Brussels.

13. Rene Magritte Museum

Art lovers should make a point of visiting the Magritte Museum . Situated on the Palace Royale, within the exquisite, neoclassical, five-storey Hôtel du Lotto, this terrific attraction presents the work of René Magritte.

An acclaimed Belgian surrealist artist, the museum features a permanent, multidisciplinary collection of his original drawings, paintings and sculptures. Amongst the notable works on display are ‘The Empire of Light’, ‘Scheherazade’ and ‘The Return’.

The museum serves as one of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium’s constituents. It is the largest archive of Magritte’s work anywhere in the world, with much of it coming from his widow’s private collection. Other exhibits include photography and short surrealist films that Magritte experimented on.

12. Train World

If you are into ferroequinology, your first stop in Brussels should be a trip to Train World .

Tucked away in the renovated buildings of the former Schaarbeek railway station, this attraction is the Belgian National Railway Company’s official museum. Overall it presents iconic steam locomotives like Le Belge and ‘L’Eléphant’, both built in 1835, and the Pays de Waes (1844). It also exhibits a railway bridge built in the 19th century and even provides an experience of what driving a train feels like.

Found at Place Princesse Elisabeth, the museum is open every day of the week except Monday. There is a restaurant onsite in case you get hungry, and you can rent audio guides in different languages whilst you are there.

11. Belgian Comic Strip Center

If you’ve seen the comic strip murals, then you should be ready to visit the Comics Art Museum. If you make it down to its Rue des Sables 20 location, you will see another Victor-Horta-designed Art Nouveau building.

For over 30 years, this terrific attraction has been championing the leading players and characters of the 9th Art. it spans four floors, and there is plenty to see here. The first floor has a comic store, library, study center, restaurant and a room honoring Victor Horta.

The first floor comprises rooms with original pages of comic books and animation, as well as an auditorium. Whilst the second has a permanent exhibition of characters and publications. The top floor is devoted to merchandising.

10. Notre Dame du Sablon

Notre Dame du Sablon is a lovely 15h century Gothic Catholic church located in the historic Sablon district of Brussels. Also known as Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon, church parishioners included Belgium’s royalty and nobility. Indeed, some royals are buried in the chapel of St. Ursula.

This gray-white church is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows that are illuminated from the inside at night. Other must-sees are the two baroque chapels with funeral symbols carved into the marble and the statue of St. Hobart that once was stolen by Antwerp and recaptured by Brussels in 1348.

9. Mini Europe

A visit to Mini Europe may remind many people of the old movie, “If it’s Tuesday, it must be Belgium,” in which travelers make the Grand Tour of Europe in just a few days. At Mini Europe, however, they can see the best on the continent in just a few hours.

A tour of Mini Europe will take visitors from the gondolas of Venice to Big Ben in London. They can also experience Vesuvius erupting in Italy and the fall of the Berlin Wall in Germany. In all, Mini Europe offers 350 miniature settings that explore the best of Europe.

8. Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is a must-visit for anyone who plays a musical instrument or just plain loves music. The museum houses more than 1,100 musical instruments, ranging from ancient to modern.

Considered one of the top musical instrument museums in the world, the museum also houses a concert hall in its uniquely designed Art Noveau and Neoclassical building. Exhibits feature keyboards, types of music from medieval to the 19th century, and mechanical and electronic instruments.

The most popular gallery features traditional musical instruments from around the world. Here, visitors may be surprised to learn the Scots weren’t the only ones who played bagpipes.

7. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

In a city replete with incredible architecture, it is a testament to how the design of The Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries manages to capture people’s attention.

Lording over the Galerie du Roi 5, just a stone’s throw from the Grand Place, it takes the form of a trio of ornate, glazed shopping arcades. Consisting of the King’s, Queen’s and Prince’s galleries, they opened in 1847 after being designed and constructed under the project management of Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer.

Representing the Italianate Cinquecento style, this historic monument features shopfronts with glazed arches separated by two upper floors and pilasters. Among the many upscale retailers are Neuhaus chocolatiers and the revered Delvaux leather goods. The Royal Theater of the Galleries is also within the complex.

6. Mont des Arts

Cats may have nine lines, but the Mont des Arts, a hill in the center of Brussels, is giving them a run for the money. Once a densely populated neighborhood, the buildings were torn down; the land lay vacant for many years. Then a garden was put in but it, too, was torn down to make way for buildings, which include the Royal Library and Congress Palace.

A new garden shares space with the buildings today. Visitors to the “hill of the arts” will find some of the best views of Brussels from here, with the Town Hall spires reaching up into the sky.

5. Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is undoubtedly the most visited landmark in Brussels. While visitors may skip many of the fine museums, no one leaves Brussels without visiting the Manneken Pis: a unique water fountain that features a naked little boy urinating into a fountain.

The statue isn’t always naked, however, as it has a wardrobe that would make the Kardashians jealous: It has 900 costumes that are changed frequently. Visitors can view them at the City Museum. The small bronze statue has been amusing residents and visitors alike since the early 1600s, though there is mention of such a statue a century or two earlier.

4. Brussels Cathedral

The Brussels Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a truly magnificent structure. The main part of this Catholic chuch dates to the 11th century while the towers were constructed in the 13th century. All told, it took about 300 years to build this impressive stone church.

Named after the country’s patron saints, it is Belgium’s main church. Visitors will be awed by the beautiful stained glass windows, especially the ones by Bernard van Orley, a 16th century painter. The Last Judgment window is lit from within at night.

3. Town Hall

While many cities rush to build modern town halls, the City of Brussels is sticking with its early 15th century Gothic town hall. It is the last remaining medieval building on the Grand Place. Of course, there’s a newer addition, but it’s not as interesting.

The old town hall is decorated with 137 statues of important people, like nobles and saints, in the city’s history. Visitors will only see copies there, as the originals are in the nearby city museum. The building is topped with an elegant spire that itself is topped with a 5-meter (16-foot) high statue of the archangel Michael.

At first glance, the Atomium looks like a space-age Ferris wheel, but looks can be deceiving. This Brussels landmark actually represents a portion of an ion crystal that’s been magnified 185 billion times.

Built in 1958 as the main pavilion for the Brussels’ world fair, it was named the world’s most bizarre building in 2013 by CNN. But beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the Belgians love it. The Atomium consists of nine spheres, only six of which are open to the public. An elevator takes people to the top of the structure, but otherwise visitors travel between the spheres on escalators.

1. Grand Place

The Grand Place is indeed grand. As the city’s central square, it is a most visited landmark, home to two of the main attractions in Brussels, the Town Hall and City Museum, as well as former guildhalls. Also known as Grote Markt, the Grand Place was a major market place that dates back to the 10th century.

The large square is filled with a carpet made from flowers every second August. Today it’s lined with many cafes, making it a good place to sample traditional Brussels’ foods, such as moules (mussels), waffles and french fries, which originated in Belgium, not France.

Map of Things to do in Brussels

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10 Best Places to Visit in Belgium

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12 Best Things to do in Ghent, Belgium

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Belgium

18 Top Tourist Attractions in Bruges, Belgium

Where to Stay in Bruges: 8 Amazing Hotels

23 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (+Map & Insider Tips for Top Places)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Visiting Belgium’s capital city for the first time and wondering what to see and do in Brussels? In this article, you can find our recommendations for the very best places to see and things to do in Brussels. It will help you to make the most of your trip and explore the city just a bit deeper. Take a look!

Good to know: We are from Belgium and have lived in and near Brussels for several years. So I can immediately tell you that there’s so much more to see in Brussels than you’d ever be able to cover on a short visit… Therefore, in this guide, we mostly focus on the most popular attractions that first-time visitors shouldn’t miss .

For each place and activity, we also share our insider tips and recommendations.

Read on to learn more about the most beautiful places to see in Brussels, the very best things to do, and the most typical Belgian experiences that will make your trip more memorable!

TIP: In order to help you plan your trip, we also created this map indicating all the best places to visit in Brussels. That way, you can see where everything is located and can easier plan your sightseeing itinerary.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: We list the main landmarks and tourist attractions in the center of Brussels first, followed by places a bit further away.

In addition to all the ‘must-sees’, we include some of the most typical Belgian food experiences as well. After all, no visit to Brussels would be complete without tasting Belgian waffles, beer, or trying moules-frites . Find out!

BEST OF BRUSSELS IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE: Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Royal Galleries, Mont des Arts, Royal Palace, and Magritte Museum . * FUN TO DO: Belgian Beer World , Atomium , Mini-Europe , EU headquarters, food tours . * MUST TRY: Brussels waffles, moules-frites, Belgian beers, and Belgian chocolate. * WHERE TO STAY:  See our guide to the best areas to stay in Brussels and also to the most popular hotels in Brussels . * DAY TRIPS:   Bruges , WWI Battlefields , Antwerp . Best day tour – Ghent & Bruges in a day .

Here are the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Grand Place & Brussels Town Hall

If there is one place that you absolutely have to see in Brussels, it’s the Grand Place (or de Grote Markt , in Dutch). Grand Place is the main town square of Brussels, home to the impressive Brussels Town Hall and the most beautiful guild houses in the world.

Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. Even if this would be the only place you see in Brussels, Grand Place is worth a trip on its own!

Brussels Grand Place is amazing at any time of the day and in any season. Lots of big events take place here, including the annual Brussels Christmas Market in winter and the bi-annual Brussels Flower Carpet in summer. Often, there are (free) light and music shows at the town square in the evenings. It’s always magical!

But even if there is nothing special going on, I recommend visiting Grand Place during the day and also in the dark. The buildings are beautifully lit at night and it’s well worth coming back for it.

Practical info: You can visit Grand Place at any time and it’s free of charge. Brussels Town Hall can also be visited inside, but only with a guided tour that runs just a few days a week. More info here .

2. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Brussels! In fact, there is not one, but two connecting galleries – Galerie du Roi (Gallery of the King) and Galerie de la Reine (Gallery of the Queen).

Opened in 1847, these impressive galleries not only transformed the formerly poorer part of the city, but also put Brussels on the map as one of the greatest cities in Europe at that time. It quickly became the place to see and to be seen, attracting the rich and the famous. The former Café des Arts (now Taverne du Passage) was a popular meeting place for writers and artists, such as Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and many others.

Nowadays, this impressive arcade houses many luxury boutique shops, beautiful cafés, and stores selling local delicacies and traditional Belgian chocolates. Inside, you’ll also find the Cinéma des Galeries, the historic movie theatre dating from 1939.

Practical info: The Royal Galleries are always open and it doesn’t cost anything to walk through them. The shops and the restaurants inside have varying opening times.

3. Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis (the peeing boy) is the quirky symbol of Brussels. And while you’ll most likely be underwhelmed by the sight of this tiny statue, it’s one of the main landmarks of Brussels that every first-time visitor absolutely has to see.

A popular legend has it that a small boy stopped a fire from spreading in Brussels by peeing on it. And so the city was saved and the little peeing boy became its symbol. However, this is just one story and the origins of Manneken-Pis could be totally different – see below)…

The current statue dates from the early 17th century, but archives show that there was a similar fountain here as early as the 14th century.

Manneken Pis is normally naked, but he also has a huge collection of costumes that he wears for a variety of different occasions. He received his first set of clothes in the late 17th century and his oldest surviving costumes date from the 18th century.

Nowadays, Manneken Pis has over 1000 costumes, with 20-30 new items added to the collection every year. If you want to see his wardrobe and learn more about this peculiar little statue, check out the museum GardeRobe Manneken Pis .

LEARN MORE: The Real Story of Manneken-Pis in Brussels

TIP: If you have the time, you may also want to locate the statue of a little peeing girl – Jeanneke-Pis . While not as famous as Manneken Pis and usually locked behind metal bars, this little fountain has always been a popular ‘hidden gem’ in Brussels. If you want to check it out, I indicated its location on our map above.

And no, that’s not all. Brussels has something with ‘urinating’ statues. There is also a Zinneke Pis , which is a statue of a peeing dog. This – for now – completes the trio of peeing statues of Brussels. But tourists sure seem to like them, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a few more of those appearing in the future.

Practical info: You can see Manneken Pis and other statues at any time and there is no fee. If you are interested in the museum, check the above link for more information.

4. Brussels Cathedral

One of the most impressive buildings of Brussels – St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral – is another must-see in the city. It’s just 5 minutes walk from Grand Place and well worth the short detour.

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral is the main church of Belgium, where all the Royal religious ceremonies take place. This is where Belgian Royals get married, princes and princesses are baptized, etc.

The exterior of the Cathedral is really impressive. However, it’s very hard to appreciate its beauty because it’s literally squeezed in between different streets and buildings, which makes it difficult to see it in its full grandeur. The front façade is best visible as there is a small square in front of it, giving you a better perspective in order to admire this colossal building.

The interior of the Cathedral is beautiful too and can be appreciated much easier than its exterior.

Practical info: The Cathedral is open daily and you can visit freely. So if there’s no Mass celebration at that time, definitely take a look inside.

5. Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts (Hill of the Arts) is a little hill in the center of Brussels, offering one of the best viewpoints of the city . As you walk the stairs all the way to the top, you get to see a beautiful panorama of the Brussels skyline. This is the typical postcard view of Brussels.

Historically, this hill connected the lower working-class part of the city with the upper part where aristocrats used to live. The Royal Palace of Brussels can be found on top of the hill, whereas the Town Hall can be seen below.

At the bottom of the hill, you’ll find the statue of Belgium’s King Albert I and the landscaped Mont des Arts Garden . Another thing to look out for is the Carillon of Mont des Arts . It has 24 bells and an impressive star-shaped clock, but is a bit hidden out of sight and often overlooked by first-time visitors. However, it’s also well worth seeing, so make a little effort to locate it. You can find it on the eastern side of the archway above the street of Mont des Arts.

Practical info: All these places are outdoors and can be seen at any time. Also, don’t worry about the stairs – this is not a steep hill at all. Furthermore, if you don’t want or can’t do the stairs, you can just take the sidewalk of Mont des Arts Street that brings you to the top of the hill.

6. Musical Instruments Museum

Just at the top of the Mont des Arts, stands an impressive Art-Nouveau-style building that houses the Museum of Musical Instruments (MMI). This is one of the most beautiful examples of the Art Nouveau architecture that Brussels is famous for.

MMI has been established in 1877 and now has over 7000 musical instruments from all over the world and from many different periods. This is one of my personal favorite museums in Brussels.

Every visitor receives headphones that start to play the music of the instrument near you. This makes the visit even more special.

But even if you have no time to visit the museum inside, you really shouldn’t miss this beautiful building. It’s located on the popular tourist route anyway, so no need to make an extra effort or get out of your way for it.

Practical info: The museum is open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. For more up-to-date information and opening times, please check the official website . This is one of the museums that’s included with the Brussels Card .

7. Royal Palace & Place Royale

Belgium is a monarchy and we have a beautiful Royal Palace right in the middle of Brussels. The Royal Family actually lives in another palace in Laken, on the outskirts of Brussels. The palace in the city center is where the Belgian King works. It’s also used for various ceremonies, state dinners, and other official occasions.

Normally, you can only admire the palace from the outside. Nevertheless, it’s worth passing by here because it’s a truly impressive building. Also, you can’t really miss the Place Royale Bruxelles , a big square with an equestrian statue of Godefroid de Bouillon in front of the Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg Church .

Good to know: The Royal Palace is only open for visitors for a brief period of time in the summer. It opens to the public after the 21 st of July (Belgian National Holiday) and stays open until the last week of August. You can visit every day except Monday and it’s free of charge. If you happen to be in Brussels during this time, it’s definitely worth a visit, but be prepared for the crowds.

8. Brussels Park

Right in front of the Royal Palace, there is a nice small city park – Royal Park , also known as Brussels Park . Located on the former hunting grounds that in the past were reserved for the aristocracy, this public park was established in the 18th century.

Brussels Park is quite small and you can see everything in 15-30 minutes. It has several fountains and beautiful statues, and you can escape the hustle and the bustle of the city for a few moments here. There are also one or two cozy outdoor cafés in the park.

Practical info: The park is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM, and is free to enter. It’s more lively in the afternoons and on the weekends.

9. Petit Sablon Neighborhood

Just a short walk from the main tourist attractions, in the heart of Brussels, lies a very nice local neighborhood called Petit Sablon . It’s an area where historic architecture and modern artsy lifestyle mingle to create a very unique atmosphere. This is one of the nicest, trendier, but also very local parts of Brussels.

Don’t miss the Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon (Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon). It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Brussels! The little park at the Square du Petit Sablon , just opposite the street from the church, is also very nice. Don’t miss it.

For the rest, just stroll through the neighborhood, following the information panels that indicate all the main sights. One of my favorite places here is the town square Place du Grand Sablon . It’s lined with art galleries, trendy boutiques, artsy cafes, and luxury chocolatiers. On the weekends, this is where you’ll find Brussel’s most famous antique market.

10. Rue des Bouchers

Probably the most famous restaurant street in Belgium, Rue des Bouchers is another top tourist attraction in Brussels. It’s a colorful, lively pedestrian street, packed with bars and restaurants. Most of them offer all kinds of seafood, and you’ll see impressive displays of shellfish on ice all over the place.

Most restaurants here are really oriented towards tourists, with pictures on the menu, food displays, and waiters trying to convince you to sit down at their restaurant. It will take some willpower to cross this street without actually sitting down for a meal. But it’s also a very well-known place to see in Brussels, so even if you don’t plan to eat here, you should definitely check this street out!

Good to know: Rue des Bouchers is a popular place to try the traditional Belgian ‘moules-frites’ (mussels and fries) . However, in general, you’ll get better value for money in the more local restaurants. The best season for Belgian mussels is from the beginning of July to around mid-April.

11. Place de la Bourse & Belgian Beer World

Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Square) is a town square in front of the old Brussels Stock Exchange building. It’s a popular place for all kinds of events and also political demonstrations.

The Stock Exchange building itself doesn’t really have an official name and is often simply called Palais de la Bourse (the Stock Exchange Palace).

This colossal 19th-century building has an impressive facade that makes you think of Greek temples. It’s even guarded by lion statues on the sides. After year-long renovations, the building is now beautifully restored and is home to the newest attraction in Brussels – Belgian Beer World .

This is an interactive family-friendly exhibition that introduces you to Belgian beer culture. At the end of the visit, you get to sample some beer at the Sky Bar. The bar is located on a beautiful rooftop terrace and offers nice city views – another great reason to come here.

Practical information: Stock Exchange Square is located just near Grand Place, so it’s really easy to include a visit here in any itinerary. If you want to visit Belgian Beer World, you can find more information and get tickets here .

Good to know: During the opening hours of the museum, you can only visit the rooftop terrace with a ticket. But in the evenings, when the museum is closed, you can go up to the Sky Bar for free.

12. Saint Catherine & Fish Market

Another really nice and more local area to see in the Brussels city center is the Saint Catherine neighborhood . It’s concentrated around the Saint Catherine Church and several town squares. The best-known square is Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market), where the old Brussels port used to be.

There is no actual fish market here. However, this part of Brussels is also a good place for (sea)food lovers and you’ll find many restaurants and cafes lining the streets. If locals go for seafood in Brussels, they’ll likely come here and not to Rue des Bouchers. Prices tend to be higher here as well, but you also can expect better quality.

In winter, this is one of the places where the Brussels Christmas market takes place. And in summer, you’ll find a lively area with outdoor restaurant terraces and a very pleasant vibe.

TIP: Don’t miss the Tour Noire (the Black Tower), a restored medieval tower surrounded by modern buildings.

13. Atomium

While most of the main Brussels tourist attractions mentioned above can be found in the city center, the most remarkable landmark of Brussels – the Atomium – requires a separate visit. It’s located on the western side of Brussels and can be reached by metro or with a hop-on hop-off bus (more info on the bus below).

The Atomium was built in 1958 as the flagship building of the Brussels World’s Fair, Expo 58. The nine spheres represent an iron crystal (magnified 165 billion times) and it was supposed to be torn down soon after the event, but it quickly became an unmistakable symbol of Brussels. It has recently been renovated, looks more impressive than ever before, and nobody can imagine the city without the Atomium anymore.

At the moment, Atomium is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brussels. It’s impressive both, from the outside and well as on the inside. Inside, you’ll find is a museum, a panoramic restaurant, and a magnificent 360° panorama with unparalleled views over Brussels and its surroundings.

Practical info: You can see the Atomium from the outside at any time and it’s beautifully lit at night. For visits inside, see practical info and get your tickets here .

14. Mini-Europe

If you already make it all the way to the Atomium, then definitely visit the adjacent Mini-Europe as well. Here, you’ll find miniature buildings and landmarks from all over Europe, scaled to the size of 1:25.

It’s a fun way to discover the main landmarks from various European countries and maybe even find some travel inspiration for future trips. And if you ever wanted to take some fun pictures with the mini versions of the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben, this is your chance!

Mini-Europe is great for all ages. It’s fun for families visiting Brussels with kids, but it’s definitely not only for kids.

Practical info: Mini-Europe is an outdoor attraction, but is open daily, all year round, and is just one of the many places you can also visit in Belgium in winter . See here for more info and tickets.

TIP: If you are planning to visit both, Atomium and Mini-Europe, you can get a combi-ticket that saves a few euros.

15. European Quarter

Brussels is the capital of Europe and there are many EU institutions in the city. Most of them are concentrated around Place Schuman, Place du Luxembourg, Place Jourdan, and Place Jean Rey. All these places are a few metro stops from the old town.

If you want to get to know more about the EU, then it might be interesting to visit the European Parliament in Brussels. There are several unique experiences that you can choose from, and it’s also free of charge. You should book in advance.

Practical info: You can see all the buildings from the outside at any time. For more information for a visit inside, please check the official website of the European Parliament in Brussels.

16. Cinquantenaire Park

Located outside the city center, a short walk from the EU Quarter, the Parc du Cinquantenaire (Park of the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence). This is one of the biggest and most famous parks of Brussels. It has nice lawns, flower displays, fountains, playgrounds, a huge triumphal arch in the middle, and several big museums.

The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History is a nice place to see all kinds of military equipment, armory, but also tanks, and even aircraft. More info .

Autoworld is a car museum, with a big collection of vintage vehicles. This is one of the best museums to visit in Brussels with children and it’s not just for boys. More info .

The Art & History Museum has an impressive collection of works of art dating from various periods of time, from Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, and more. More info .

Most tourists who come to Brussels just for a day don’t get to this part of the city. But if you take a hop-on hop-off bus (more info below), you’ll definitely pass here. If you have more time, take a stroll through the park and visit one of the museums.

Practical information: You’ll need at least 30-45 min for Autoworld or for the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces. The Art & History Museum requires at least 2 hours of your time. For more information and opening times, please check their websites linked above.

TIP: All these museums are included with the Brussels Card .

17. Hop-on Hop-off Bus

If you want to see a lot of Brussels in a short time, then consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus . It’s especially convenient if you are planning to visit the attractions located a bit outside the city center. For the Atomium, Mini Europe, but also the EU buildings or Cinquantenaire Park, the hop-on hop-off bus is the best way to easily get there.

There are two routes and your ticket covers both of them. For the western side of the city including Atomium, take the Blue Route (aka Atomium Route). For the easter side, including the European quarter and Cinquantenaire Park, take the Red Route (aka Europe Route).

The advantage of taking the sightseeing bus is that it also passes the Royal Palace in Laken, the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, the Japanese Tower at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, and several other interesting Brussels landmarks. You also get to see some colorful neighborhoods of Brussels that you’d totally miss otherwise.

18. Brussels Museums

Brussels has many museums and, depending on your interests and the time you have, you could consider visiting a few of them. However, with so many choices, it can be really overwhelming to decide where to go. So here are a few more suggestions, in addition to the ones already mentioned above. (You can also find these on our map of Brussels attractions).

In the heart of Brussels and just near the Musical Instruments Museum, you’ll find the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium . This is a complex of two museums – the Old Masters Museum and the Magritte Museum . You can visit one or both of them (combination tickets are available). The building is so large that you can spend a big part of the day here. More info here . If you have time for just one museum in Brussels, make it the Magritte Museum !

For nature, history, and dinosaurs, head to the Museum of Natural Sciences . The museum houses the largest Dinosaur Gallery in Europe and is a favorite among kids. However, it’s located somewhat far away from all the attractions in the city center. So you really have to make an effort in order to visit. More info here .

Brussels City Museum , located at the Grand Place town square, is dedicated to the city of Brussels. This museum is a great place to learn about Brussels and its history from the Middle Ages to modern times. More info here .

Other Brussels museums that are also worth considering are Comics Art Museum, Train World , BOZAR, and Choco-Story Brussels . But even if you’d somehow manage to visit all of these, you’ll just scratch the surface of all that there’s to see in Brussels.

TIP: If you are a museum fan and plan to visit several of Brussels museums in one trip, then definitely get Brussels Card . It will save you a lot of money.

Now that we covered all the best places to see in Brussels, here are some additional experiences that you don’t want to miss. Ok, you can skip the shopping but definitely don’t skip all the food and drinks that Belgium is famous for. Take a look at our suggestions with some insider tips!

19. Shopping at Rue Neuve or Avenue Louise

In addition to all the tourist sights and attractions, many people come to Brussels for shopping. It’s a great place for that indeed, with countless options and plenty of choices for all styles and budgets.

The busiest place in Brussels, Rue Neuve is the main shopping street of the city. It’s lined with big chain stores and looks and feels like any other big shopping area in the world. But if you’d like to do some shopping, this is the place to be.

For a more high-end shopping experience, head to Avenue Louise on the other side of the city center. Here, you’ll find expensive designer boutiques, with names as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & co, Michael Kors, and similar.

20. Belgian Chocolate

No trip to Brussels would be complete without tasting some really good Belgian chocolate . There are probably hundreds of shops selling chocolate in the center of Brussels. And you can also visit Choco-Story Brussels , where you can learn more about Belgian chocolate and taste some of it.

TIP: If you are looking to taste some truly good Belgian chocolate, I recommend checking out the shops of traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus , Godiva , Leonidas , or Pierre Marcolini .

The traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus (est. 1857), Leonidas (est. 1913), and Godiva (est. 1926) have a long history, whereas Pierre Marcolini is the newcomer that opened his first shop at the end of the 20 th century.

Leonidas offers some of the best price-quality Belgian chocolates. Godiva and Neuhaus are somewhat more expensive and some of their chocolates require an acquired taste that not everybody will appreciate.

The chocolates of Pierre Marcolini are more contemporary and often quite daring. They come with a high price tag as well. But if you want to taste some of the best chocolate in the world, then definitely stop by one of their shops in Brussels.

Our personal favorite Belgian chocolate is the white ‘Manon’ praline from Leonidas . These pralines have coffee-flavored buttercream in a shell of white chocolate, with hazelnut in the middle. You can find them without hazelnut, with milk chocolate or dark chocolate as well, but definitely try the original one too! They were invented back in 1934, but are just as popular nowadays as they were almost a hundred years ago.

Our kids’ favorites are the Côte d’Or Praliné chocolates that come in many different varieties. You’ll find them in all Belgian supermarkets. They are much better and much cheaper than the chocolates sold in tourist stores.

21. Belgian Waffles

It’s impossible to not mention Belgian waffles when writing about any major city in Belgium. You’ll see and smell the waffles in all the tourist areas in Brussels. And they’re so hard to resist.

There are so many different types of Belgian waffles, but the tourist places usually all sell just one or two kinds – the Brussels waffles and the Liege waffles . Usually the latter. The Brussels waffles are somewhat bigger, more ‘airy’, and not as sweet. They are rectangular in shape. Whereas the Liege waffles are quite thick and heavy, and they also contain more sugar. They are also somewhat more rounded than the Brussels waffles.

In addition, you can choose extra toppings that vary from whipped cream and chocolate to fresh strawberries and many others. If you dare, try a few toppings at once. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to try to eat it all while standing in the busy street, with hundreds of people walking by. This is the reason why we usually simply opt for a plain waffle when buying Belgian waffles from the street shops.

Still, the best traditional waffles are the ones you’ll find at these street stands and not at restaurants. Definitely give it a try!

TIP: If you have a few hours to spare, you can also check out this waffle-making workshop . It’s something fun to do in Brussels that you won’t find in many other places.

22. Belgian Beer

One of the best things to do in Brussels is go bar-hopping and try different Belgian beers in various pubs and cafes. There are many tourist-oriented places, but for a more authentic experience, look for older, traditional pubs and cafes.

Some of them have hundreds of different Belgian beers , many on tap, and always with their own matching glasses (see more about this in our guide to fun facts about Belgium ).

Here are just a few of the best beer cafes in Brussels (we also indicated them on the map): Delirium Café , Moeder Lambic , Café Mort Subite , Bier Circus , etc.

Don’t settle for the typical mass-production Belgian beer that you find all over the world. Make sure to ask for some local suggestions and try something that you can only find in Belgium!

Good to know: Some Belgian beers are very strong, so be careful if trying more than one or two of them on the same evening. On the other hand, there are also very light, fruity beers, that you will enjoy even if you are not a big fan of beer, like me.

Local’s recommendation: My husband’s favorite Belgian beers are the Trappist beers: Westmalle , Westvleteren ,  Orval , Rochefort , Achel , Chimay , and La Trappe . In Brussels, Lambic , Geuze , Mort Subite , La Chouffe , or Rodenbach are just a few popular choices.

TIP: If you want to taste various Belgian beers, but are not sure where to start or what to choose, check out this popular pub crawl or – if you are in the mood for more – this highly-rated tour that includes 7 beers and snacks .

23. Belgian Fries with Mayo

No visit to Belgium would be complete without trying some typical Belgian fries with mayo (and no, it’s nothing like fries or mayo that you’ll find anywhere else in the world). And while you can find good fries in the restaurants as well, the best ones come from the street stands called ‘ friterie ’ or ‘ fritkot’ .

For a couple of euros, you can have a delicious and quick meal. It’s perfect when you don’t want to sit down for a long meal during the day and rather spend your time sightseeing.

And yes, it’s not the healthiest option, but with all the chocolate, waffles, and beer, you’ll likely need to loosen your belt in Brussels anyway. So why not go for a full experience and try it all!

TIP: The most popular place to taste traditional Belgian fries in the center of Brussels is the friterie called Fritland , located on the western side of the Stock Exchange building. No matter what time of the day, there’s always a queue here, you can’t miss it. Another good place is Friterie Tabora , very close by to the Grand Place as well. I indicated both of these on our map, but there are many, many more good places throughout the city.

Where to Stay

There are so many nice hotels in various areas of Brussels that it’s really difficult to recommend just a few accommodations. For sightseeing, we recommend staying in the city center, close to Grand Place – this area really has it all and is also easy to access by public transport.

Here are some of the best hotels in the heart of the city center, close to Grand Place, for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo .
• €€€€ Warwick Grand Place .
• €€€ NH Collection Brussels Centre .
• €€ Motel One Brussels .

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Brussels (best areas & hotels for all budgets) & Most Popular Brussels Hotels (top 10 most-booked hotels in the city center)

So, this is our guide to the top things to do in Brussels and the main tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Belgian capital. I hope that this will help you make the most of your visit and get to know Brussels a bit better.

If you are visiting other Belgian cities as well, make sure to also check our guide to the best things to do in Bruges and also the best things to do in Antwerp (+ don’t miss our favorite local places in Antwerp ).

TIP: If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip, see our suggested Belgium itinerary for 3-4 days . It also includes tips for where to stay and how to get around. Check it out!

Have a great trip to Brussels!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for some of the most beautiful cities all over Europe:

• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Best Things to Do in Rome
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in London
• Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Krakow
• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• Best Things to Do in Geneva
• Best Things to Do in Lucerne
• Best Things to Do in Bern
• Best Things to Do in Colmar
• Best Things to Do in Salzburg
• Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

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Monday 15th of April 2024

Thank you! As I read your recommendations, the sites were easy to locate on the map. I was able to sketch out our Brussels adventures. My daughter and I are visiting for ten days in August with side trips to Ghent, Liege, Antwerp, Luxembourg and Bruges. I look forward to reading more!

Tuesday 16th of April 2024

Glad to help Donna. If you happen to be in Belgium around the 15th of August, don't miss the Flower Carpet! Have a great trip!

Thursday 28th of December 2023

Heading to Brussels early May. Also side trip to Luxembourg. Any tips on that? Also thinking of day trip to Ghent - worth it?

These guides are amazing. Thanks.

Friday 29th of December 2023

@Jurga, Thanks... Yes Luxembourg is a far ride so planning to stay two nights. Your site was very helpful. Thanks much.

Hi Janet, you can easily take a train from Brussels to Luxembourg and visit for a day, but it's a rather long train journey so start early. Ghent is much closer and you don't necessarily need a full day if you just want to see the main highlights, but it all depends on your interests. Some people love it more than any other city in Belgium. You could also combine it with Bruges. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Antwerp. It's a very easy day trip by train and you can easily fill a day or even more there. It's our personal favorite. You can find several detailed guides on Antwerp and Bruges on our website - see here for an overview. Unfortunately, I haven't published anything about Ghent or Luxembourg city itself. In Ghent, the nicest place to be is around Korenlei/Graslei and St. Michael's Bridge. Don't miss Gravensteen Castle and Lam Gods painting at Saint Bavo's Cathedral. In Luxembourg, visit the old town around Grand Ducal Palace. We personally always love walking around Grund (this area is by the river and can be reached via elevators from old town). Also don't miss Bock Casemates. Hope this helps.

R. Robinson

Monday 18th of September 2023

Your travel guides are amazingly helpful! Thank you very much. I used the Iceland guide in June and currently in Brussels.

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Glad to help. Hope you enjoyed Belgium!

Colin Peart

Tuesday 15th of February 2022

Thanks for the great tips. The best blog I’ve found for Brüssels.

Wednesday 16th of February 2022

Glad to help, Colin. Have a great time in Brussels! (and don't forget that there's more to Belgium than its capital ;))

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Home » Europe » Belgium » Brussels

18 BEST Places to Visit in Brussels (2024)

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is known for many things. It could be the European Parliament that first springs to mind.

Some people jump straight to chocolate, cheese, and beer (and deservingly so). Of course, the history is what makes all this possible – the city even houses a UNESCO World Heritage site. This combination of qualities is what makes it such a popular destination for tourists from all walks of life.

There’s nothing quite like munching on some high-class Belgian chocolate while you check out architectural wonders that hold the weight of a very long history. And this is definitely something you should do when you travel to Brussels.

Brussels is a relatively small city, but that doesn’t mean that it’s always easy to navigate. When you travel to this city, you don’t want to miss out on some of its best, quirkiest, and tastiest sites.

That’s why we’ve created this list of the best places to visit in Brussels. It includes some standards and some places that only the locals know so that you get the best of all worlds during your trips.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Brussels:

These are the best places to visit in brussels, faqs on the best places to visit in brussels, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in brussels.

Saint Gilles

Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a youthful, bohemian, trendy, multicultural, and lively part of the city.

• Be inspired at the Art Nouveau Horta Museum.
• Take a peek inside Horta pre-metro station to see architectural pieces signed by famous architects.
• Enjoy fresh air and greenery at Parc de Forest.

As well as being the capital of Belgium, it’s also (arguably) the capital of Europe – housing the European Union too. That means you can expect all your stereotypical European delights, packed into one city. You’ll find incredible architecture, fantastic transport, an eclectic mix of cultures, and history coming out of its ears.

When you’re planning your European dream tour , you can’t miss some of these top attractions in Brussels. Let’s jump right into the city center.

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#1 – Grand Place – A great place to see in Brussels for architecture

• The best place to start your travels in Brussels!
• A beautiful and historic spot with amazing architecture everywhere you look.

Why it’s so awesome: There are several important must-see buildings in this area to check out as you’re visiting Belgium . At the top of the list of must-see places is this UNESCO world heritage site: the Grand Place. The Grand Place is right in the heart of Brussels, the Town Hall is one of the best-preserved areas in all of Europe. The architecture in this area is simply spectacular, mostly because of the Gildehuizen or guild houses, which have amazing stonework and gold decorations in the Baroque style with Flemish influences.

What to do there: You’ll want to spend plenty of time looking at the buildings in this area, because they’re both historical and stunningly beautiful. Afterwards, make sure you take some pictures of the famous Hotel de Ville or Town Hall, which was built in 1402. When you’re tired of taking pictures, check out the cafes and restaurants in the area for a rest surrounded by incredible beauty.

#2 – The Royal Palace – the best place to visit in one day

• You’ll get some amazing photos at this palace when you’re visiting Brussels.
• The official residence of the Belgian royal family.

Why it’s so awesome: This is the most important building in Brussels and probably in Belgium as a whole because it’s the official residence of the royal family. When they’re home you’ll see the flag flying high. It’s an imposing building surrounded by lush green and looks great in photos.

What to do there: You probably won’t be able to enter the building because the royal family is there, but it’s still worth visiting. At 2.30 pm, the ceremonial Changing of the Guard occurs, so that’s worth planning your day around. There are also several neoclassical buildings around the palace that you should explore including the Palais des Academies and the Palais des Beaux-Arts.

#3 – Manneken Pis – the best free thing to visit in Brussels

• A slightly naughty statue that’s one of the most popular points of interest in Brussels.
• This statue is usually besieged by tourists, so get there early if you want to see it properly.

Why it’s so awesome: The clue’s in the name: this little guy is located along the Rue de l’Etuve – and has been traced back to 1388 – but little more is known about it. It’s often referred to as the oldest citizen in Brussels and is an image of a little boy urinating. As far as Brussels attractions go, Manneken Pis is surely a unique sight. There are lots of legends about this statue so go ahead and make up your own too.

What to do there: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get that iconic photo of the little boy urinating (you choose how rude you want to be). If you’re in Brussels during city celebrations, this statue is often dressed in costume, so make sure you have a look if you’re there at the right time.

With a Brussels City Pass , you can experience the best of Brussels at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#4 – Belgian Comic Strip Centre – One of the more unique places to visit in Brussels!

• A great place to visit in Brussels if you remember the Smurf and TinTin.
• This comic arts museum is held in a gorgeous building that was designed by Victor Horta.

Why it’s so awesome: This building is dedicated to cartoons and comic strips that were first created in Belgium. You might not know it, but the Smurfs and Tintin were born in Belgium, and the display celebrates this history as well as other works by Belgian and French comic artists over the years. This is one of the more unusual things to do in Brussels , which is why we like it so much!

What to do there: The displays at this venue rotate constantly, so every time you go, you’ll get to see something different. There are 200 original comic strip drawings included in the exhibition, and you’ll also learn more about the rising popularity of comic books. So, make sure you check out the sketches, sets, and manuscripts that explore this history as well.

#5 – Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site – A fascinating educational place to visit in Brussels

• An active archaeological site that was discovered in the 1980s and is now open to the public.
• This site was the former Palace of Brussels and excavations have uncovered cellars, tunnels and forgotten streets underneath the modern-day city.

Why it’s so awesome: It isn’t often that you get to explore an active archaeological site, but this is your chance to do just that. Since its discovery in the 1980s, researchers have found numerous tunnels and forgotten streets around the former castle, all of them buried by time and forgotten until very recently. So, if you’re interested in exploring a medieval palace with all its secrets, add this to your Brussels itinerary .

What to do there: Put aside a couple of hours to explore this site. The foundations of the palace have been cleared for tourists, and there are free audio guides available so you can more fully understand what you’re looking at and why it’s important. This is also one of the best hotspots in Brussels to take the kids, as the museum holds interactive programs to get them involved in the explorations.

#6 – Saint Michel Cathedral

• A gothic style cathedral that was completed in the 15th century after centuries of work.
• This cathedral looks amazing in person and even better in pictures, so make sure you take your camera with you.

Why it’s so awesome: This gothic cathedral is dedicated to St. Michel and St. Gudula, the patron saint of Brussels. It was founded in 1225 but wasn’t completed until the 15th century and is an amazing example of Gothic architecture. It’s topped by 69-meter-high towers and is lavishly furnished inside.

What to do there: The outside of the building is stunning but it’s the inside that will take your breath away. Make sure that you spend some time examining the stained-glass windows. The south transept depicts Charles V and Isabella of Portugal and the north transept shows Louis II and Mary. There’s also a chapel inside known as the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, and the stained glass in there depicts the Miracle of the Host, so make sure you see it.

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#7 – The Atomium – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Brussels

• This strange looking construct is one of the most famous places in Brussels for tourists and locals alike.
• You’ll need to take the tram to reach this attraction, but it’s worth the trip.

Why it’s so awesome: The Atomium is a surreal-looking construct created by architect Andre Waterkeyn for the 1958 Brussels World Exhibition. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Brussels. This 102-meter-high aluminium and steel attraction is designed in the shape of a molecule of iron that’s been magnified 165 times. So, if you’re the type of person who’s always wanted to know what iron really looks like, this is your chance!

What to do there: It’s worth the tram journey to get to the location of this Brussels must-see, mostly because it’s so odd-looking. Make sure you take the chance to explore the interior as well, where four of the nine spheres present a show about human life called Biogenium. It’s one of the best free places to visit in Brussels. Take your picnic, or a beer, and enjoy this unique backdrop.

#8 – Mont des Arts

• An architecturally striking collection of buildings that holds the Royal Library of Belgium, the Square – Brussels Meeting Center, the National Archives of Belgium, and a public garden.
• There are not only some amazing books in this building but great museums.

Why it’s so awesome: The Mont des Arts was built between 1956 and 1958, so it’s a modern building that somehow fits perfectly with the buildings around it. The site sits between the Royal Palace and the Place de l’Albertine and is a complex of modern buildings that hold the city’s library, national archives, and meeting center.

What to do there: If you’re looking for Brussels vacation ideas, this is a great place to start because it’s close to most of the best tourist attractions in Brussels. The complex also offers amazing views of Brussels. From the elevated buildings, you can see all the way from the Grand Palace to the Atomium and everything in between. And at the other end of the building, you can see the Royal Square and the done of Saint-Jacques on the Coudenberg.

#9 – Notre-Dame du Sablon

• Built around the 15th-16th century to replace an older chapel that was built around 1304.
• The inside of the church is incredible, with some of the most beautiful stained-glass scenes you’ll ever see.

Why it’s so awesome: This church is considered to be one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in all of Belgium. The inside and outside of the building are equally amazing and look just as good in photos as well. The church also contains the burial chapel of the Thurn und Taxis family and a figure of the Virgin which is a copy of the figurine that was supposedly bought to the chapel by a woman the Virgin appeared to back in 1348.

What to do there: This is a truly stunning church and you’ll be amazed at the architectural mastery and the artwork when you visit. The stained-glass images inside the church are particularly popular, so make sure you spend time examining the scenes they depict.

#10 – The Parlamentarium – One of the most important places to visit in Brussels

• The best place to learn about Europe’s past and how to it came to be.
• A fascinating display, even if you aren’t interested in politics.

Why it’s so awesome: The Parlamentarium is just outside of the city center and it has a visitor’s center that will give you a deeper insight into the Brussels of the present by exploring Europe’s past. The center has multimedia exhibits that explore what the World Wars were really like and how they influenced politics in Europe today.

What to do there: If you’ve ever wanted to learn about why the European Union was developed and how it influenced how Europe grew, this is the place to do it. So, take the tour at the center to learn more about the world you live in now and the people and events that shaped it. This is also a great place to take the kids if you want them to understand the larger stage of the world.

#11 – Cinquantenaire Park – most beautiful place to visit in Brussels

• On a fine day, there’s no better place to visit in Brussels if you need to relax in nature.
• There is a museum in the park as well if you want to get a little culture in at the same time.

Why it’s so awesome: When it’s sunny in Brussels, all the locals head out to this park to enjoy the sunshine. In a busy modern city, it’s important to get out in nature sometimes and this is the easiest and the fastest way to do that. There is also a great museum in the park called the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History if you’re a war buff.

What to do there: This is the perfect place to have a picnic, hire a bike and do some cycling, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of nature right in the middle of the city. So, take a picnic and enjoy it on the grass, or just hang out near the fountain on the weekend in Brussels (Saturdays are always the best day for people-watching).

#12 – Mini Europe – a unique place to visit in Brussels

• A theme park with 1:25 scale models of the best monuments in the EU.
• This theme park is at the base of the Atomium, a huge model of an iron molecule, which makes this area a study of contrasts.

Why it’s so awesome: This park opened in 1989 and features 350 monuments from all around Europe. To dive into European top sights, this is the place to start. It’s the only place to see Mount Vesuvius, Big Ben, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa all in the same place. In fact, the theme park explores the most famous buildings from 80 cities in Europe and the attention to detail in each is simply astonishing.

What to do there: You have to admire the attention to tiny detail in this park. Each model is created using a silicone mould and resin or casts. They each took a long time to build, but some of them represent a level of dedication that most people just don’t have. For example, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela took 24,000 hours to build. Also, make sure you spend some at the new interactive exhibition at the park for an introduction to EU history through multimedia games.

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#13 – The Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts – A great place to visit in Brussels if you are traveling solo

• One of the biggest and best art galleries in the world.
• The museum has been open since about 1875, but the collection was first set up in 1797.

Why it’s so awesome: When you think of the best art in the world, you probably think of Paris and Italy. But when you travel to Brussels, you’ll discover a collection that rivals those famous places. In 1797, the art collection which is now in the museum was created in the former palace of Charles Lorraine. The collection is divided into two parts, the first focusing on Ancient art and holding pieces by Flemish and Dutch Masters from the distant past. The second part of the collection consists of modern art and mostly holds 19th and 20th-century works.

What to do there: Set aside some time to explore both the ancient and modern parts of this museum. These collections absolutely must be on your Brussels itinerary. Check out the artwork by Flemish and Dutch Masters; Petrus Christus, Dirk Bouts, Hans Memling and Gerard David. And afterwards, spend some time exploring more modern pieces and see how art in Belgium has changed and evolved over the years.

#14 – Royal Greenhouses of Laeken – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Brussels!

• This location is only open to the public for 2 weeks in spring, but if you’re there at the right time of year then you’re in for a treat!

Why it’s so awesome: King Leopold II of Belgium created the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken between 1884 and 1886. They’re part of a huge complex, with thirty pavilions that are all connected to the Winter Gardens. From the outside, the greenhouses are massive glass domes that shine in the sun. And on the inside is a collection of exotic and tropical plants that are incredibly pleasing to the eyes and to the nose.

What to do there: These greenhouses are only open for 2 weeks in late April and early May, so if you want to see them then you’ll have to time your trip to coincide with the opening days. This is at the time when the flowers are blooming though, so it’s a beautiful time to appreciate the display. If you do manage to enter the greenhouses, make sure that you check out the geraniums and azaleas, which light up the corridors and catch the sunlight perfectly. The Greenhouse of Congo is also worth seeing for its collection of African plants and the dark history of colonialization this greenhouse represents.

#15 – The Musical Instrument Museum – Quite the quirky place in Brussels!

• A great place to learn about a different side of Belgium’s history.
• This is one of the best places to visit in Brussels if you’re interested in music.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is located in central Brussels and holds a collection of over 1,500 instruments. This includes both European and non-European instruments as well as a detailed exploration of how Brussels contributed to the making of recorders in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The museum also explores the history of instrument inventor and Belgium native Adolphe Sax, who lived in the nineteenth century.

What to do there: The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday, so check out the opening hours before you just show up. Once you’re there, check out the floors of different types of instruments including mechanical, traditional, and keyboard instruments. Also, make sure you listen to the instruments as well as look at them. The museum offers free headphones that allows you to listen to up to 200 musical pieces created by the instruments on display. There’s also a sound lab where you can experiment with the instrument and see what sounds you can make.

#16 – Delirium Café – Cool place to see in Brussels with friends!

• One of the best places to visit in Brussels for beer fans.
• This café has over 2,000 beers on tap.

Why it’s so awesome: This café claims to have the best beer in the world and they might just be right! Located in one of Brussels’ cobblestone backstreets, the café has one of the biggest beer selections you’ll ever see, which is why it’s really popular amongst the locals! The bar itself is also quirky and welcoming, with neon signs and posts from years past.

What to do there: Grab a few friends and head to this café at the start of a great night out! Try some of the Belgian beers and see for yourself if they offer the best beer in the world. And if you have trouble choosing a beer from the textbook-sized menu, just ask the bartenders. They have a vast knowledge of beer and can steer you towards something delicious. The café also offers a range of cheeses and other snacks to soak up the alcohol.

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#17 – Le Musée du Jouet (Toy Museum) – Awesome place to visit in Brussels with kids!

• A great place to take the kids or even the young at heart!
• This museum is interactive, and the toys are meant to be played with, not just looked at.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum is housed in an old mansion and is 3 floors and 20 rooms of toys, most of them dating from the 1950s through to the 1980s. However, there are some older toys on display, some of them from the 1800s! Some of the toys were donated, others purchased, but all of them are there to be enjoyed and played with.

What to do there: There are a huge range of toys at this museum, including the incredibly rare and the everyday. And best of all is the fact that you can play with them. So, take the kids with you, or just leave your inhibitions behind, and follow in the steps of children from generations before. There’s also a theater and old tram inside the museum, so you could spend hours at play!

#18 – Maison Dandoy – A must-see for foodies!

• You can’t visit Brussels and not eat Belgian waffles, and this is one of the best places to eat in Brussels !
• All the waffles here are made to order, which is why they’re better than the waffles you’ll get at most places.

Why it’s so awesome: You can’t visit Brussels without eating Belgian waffles. They’re available at a lot of places in the city, but Maison Dandoy has the tastiest range. This shop has been making baked goods since 1829, which is why they know how to make the best waffles in the city. There are a few locations, so find one near where you’re staying in Brussels and indulge your sweet tooth! And everything is made fresh, which is what makes all the difference.

What to do there: You’ll probably need to visit this shop a few times while you’re visiting Brussels because no one can eat all the tasty varieties they have in a single sitting. Try the sweet Liege waffle as well as the fluffier Brussels waffles to see which one you enjoy the most. And you can have almost every sweet treat you can imagine on top of your waffles, including hot chocolate sauce, caramel and ice cream!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Brussels.

Is Brussels worth a visit?

Brussels is definitely worth a visit. There are so many epic places to visit that you’ll probably feel a bit overwhelmed. From great food and culture to nightlife, parties and Belgian festivals , Brussels is great travel destination.

Which places in Brussels can you visit for free?

Check out these free places to visit in Brussels: – Grand Plaza – The Atomium – The Royal Palace

What places in Brussels can you visit at night?

The Delirium Café is one of the best places to visit at night in Brussels. With over 2000 beers on tap, you’re promised a tasty experience and a really good time.

Are there any good places to visit in Brussels during winter?

When it’s starting to get cold outside, these are the best places to visit in Brussels: – Belgian Comic Strip Center – The Parlamentarium – Maison Dandoy

Brussels is brimming with history and should be on every traveller’s itinerary when backpacking Europe. When you travel to Brussels, you want to experience all that this amazing and historic city has to offer. I mention that in homage to the importance of its incredible history before I mention the insane Belgian beer, waffles, and chocolate.

There are some MUST-SEE places to visit in Brussels: the Grand Place, the Royal Palace, and the town hall should be at the top of your list! But you should do that and combine your travel plan with the confidence to wander and find amazing sites, cafes, and eateries on your own. Hopefully, this list will spur on your imagination.

This is just a starting point to find the Brussels that you’ve always dreamed of experiencing. And that’s the only way that you’ll be able to discover your own list of the best places to visit in Brussels. That’s where the real Belgian adventure begins.

Mathilde Magnier

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

The capital of Belgium , Brussels, is a fascinating place with stunning architecture and fascinating history packed into every street and alleyway. The vibe of the city is hard to put your finger on. Sometimes it seems very business and bureaucracy focused, it is after all the administerial centre of the EU, but at other times it feels laid back and does not take itself too seriously: think Manneken Pis and The Comic Strip Centre.

It is this multi-layered atmosphere that makes Brussels such a great city to visit. It truly has something for everyone and offers European staples such as art and architecture alongside more unusual attractions. Don’t visit Brussels if you are on a diet as the fries, mussels and beer will soon have you indulging.

Spending just a couple of days in the city will allow you to see all of the major and most popular sights but if you are here for a week, you will be able to visit some more obscure, but equally fascinating attractions. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Be Inspired by the Grand Place

The Grand Place in Brussels is hidden away in the centre of the city but when you enter on foot, you are guaranteed to be left awestruck.

At the centre of the Grand Place is the beautiful 15th Century city hall but dotted around the square you will also be impressed by the six guild halls and their striking architecture.

The square is worth visiting several times at different times of the day. On certain days there is a flower market in the square and visiting at night is recommended.

2. Step back in time at the Old England Building

The Old England Building in Brussels was formerly a department store and was built in the very last year of the 19th Century.

The building attracts visitors because of its stunning facade but also due to the fascinating and vast musical museum it houses. The museum is home to more than 2000 musical instruments with historic value and gives guests a chance to listen to many of them.

The cafe on the roof of the building provides memorable panoramic views of the city.

3. Visit Brussel’s Notre Dame Du Sablon

This spectacular Gothic cathedral began life in the 14th Century when it was used as a chapel by the Archer’s Guild.

It was extensively expanded in the next century to the popularity and supposed healing powers of the Madonna statue located within. The statue was allegedly stolen by a husband and wife team of thieves in a rowing boat.

The location of the statue is unknown but the story is commemorated by a lifesize model inside the building.

4. Learn about lace in the Costume Museum

Lace is one of Brussels’ oldest crafts and the art of needlepoint lace, which was first developed in Italy, was one of the main industries in Brussels.

The museum details of lace outfits were made as well as displaying many historical outfits.

The exhibitions are ever changing but are always well presented.

5. Admire Le Botanique

Le Botanique was historically the botanical gardens of the city and still attracts a large number of guests in the modern day. The greenhouse, which dates back to the 19th Century, now regularly plays host to a range of performing arts and makes the place feel like more of a cultural centre than just a garden.

However if you are into greenery then the surrounding gardens are still intact and present in all their glory, and make for a welcoming change of pace from the city itself.

Ps: Le Botanique is included in the Brussels Bard which you can get here .

6. See the Palais Royal

Although the royal family of Belgium now spend their lives at Laeken, the Royal Palace in Brussels remains as their official residence.

The palace is open for tourists in the summer months and makes a worthy addition to any itinerary whilst visiting the city. The most notable room in the palace has a ceiling covered in the wings of beetles, forming an oddly beautiful mosaic.

The artwork as well as the interior decor is also as splendid as you might expect from a royal palace.

7. Laugh at the Manneken Pis

This odd statue has risen to fame and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. The name simply translates to “little man pee” and it has been given this name for obvious reasons.

The statue takes a little bit of skill in hunting down (unless you see it as part of a tour) but it is worth persevering. You will find it by taking the right lane away from the town hall.

The statue is thought to date back to the early 17th Century when it was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy.

8. Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

If you are craving some top notch art (and you should be when in a European Capital) then look no further than the Musee Royaux Beaux Arts.

The museum incorporates collections of modern and ancient art across a range of styles. Famous works at the museum include the Fall of Icarus and various paintings by the Antwerpen painter Peter Rubens. There are also works by Anthony Van Dyke and Hans Memling on display.

Allow close to a full day to be able to fully appreciate the museum.

9. Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

The Parc Du Cinquantenaire has been around since the reign of Leopold II.

It is a great place to visit for a number of reasons, whether you plan on having a picnic on the grass whilst absorbing the stunning architecture, or whether you intend to appreciate the vast collection of 35,000 artifacts housed in the museums here, a trip to the Parc Du Cinquantenaire should be part of any trip to Brussels.

10. Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels

Belgians are very proud of their beer and it has played an important role throughout the history of the city.

Tours are available that allow beer aficionados to experience the best pubs in the city as well as learning about the history of the beer and seeing how it is made in one of the city’s breweries. Whether or not you are a beer fan, this tour is worth considering due to the pride and historical value associated with beer in the city.

Tip: check out this Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

11. Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels

It is not widely known or as appreciated by tourists as other aspects of Brussels history but the city is actually known for its comic book history.

The city has a museum which is dedicated to comics; The Belgian Comic Strip Centre but aside from that, you will also get a feel of how important comics are to the city when you gaze up at larger than life comic book murals on the side of building walls.

Hunting these murals down is an exciting way to get around the city too.

12. See and be seen at Cafe Belga

Something of an institution in the city of Brussels, the Cafe Belga is hugely popular with locals, expats and tourists alike.

Located at the heart of Place Flagey (which is itself somewhat of a cultural mixing pot), the Cafe has great views, a buzzing atmosphere and great, affordable Belgian cafe food. The cafe gets busy in the summer but this is part of its charm.

Whilst you are in the area, Frit Flagey is well worth visiting and serves some of the best fries in the city.

13. Enjoy the nightlife

The nightlife of Brussels is varied and entertaining and has something to suit all tastes and budgets. One of the most worthwhile nights out is Madame Mustache, a club with waiters clad in sailors attire that plays a variety of different music.

Entry is free on weeknights but not weekends (it is also busier at the weekend). Dancing is the best way to enjoy your night here but if that is not to your liking there is always a table football room on offer.

There’s also a 4-Hour Locals Pub and Club Crawl which you can book here .

14. Learn about the city in the Broodhuis

The Flemish name of this building translates to “The Bread House” due to the many centuries that the city’s bread market was held here.

Fittingly, the building is now home to a museum focusing on the history of the city of Brussels. The exhibitions range from the middle ages to the present day and are set over multiple floors.

If you had chance to visit the Manneken Pis, then you may be interested to see his costumes which are on display here.

15. Marvel at the Atomium

The Atomium, located in Heysel Park in the West of the city, is a jaw dropping model of an atom which just happens to be a whopping 100 metres tall.

The sculpture was made in 1958 to welcome a new and atomic age to Belgium and is an accurate depiction of an iron molecule except that it is about 165 billion times larger! The glass roofed lift takes guests to the top in a time of only 20 seconds, there they can enjoy a beer and snack before descending.

Admission ticket can be booked here .

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium):

• Be Inspired by the Grand Place
• Step back in time at the Old England Building
• Visit Brussel's Notre Dame Du Sablon
• Learn about lace in the Costume Museum
• Admire Le Botanique
• See the Palais Royal
• Laugh at the Manneken Pis
• Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts
• Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire
• Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels
• Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels
• See and be seen at Cafe Belga
• Enjoy the nightlife
• Learn about the city in the Broodhuis
• Marvel at the Atomium

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Brussels

Vibrant Brussels is known for being many things at once, and that versatility extends to its attractions. Peeing statues, parks and hills with specific cultural missions, resplendent Art Nouveau and Art Deco villas, and even Europe in miniature – Brussels has it all. Here, you’ll find 20 essential attractions to visit when in the heart of Europe.

1. manneken pis, jeanneke pis and zinneke.

Historical Landmark

2. Grand Place

Building, Memorial

Building, Memorial, Historical Landmark

4. Victor Horta's major town houses

Museum, Architectural Landmark

Brussels is a treasure trove of Art Nouveau architecture, and shining examples of the revolutionary pre-war movement are Victor Horta ’s town houses. The Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, Hôtel van Eetvelde and Maison & Atelier Horta clearly show their architect as a pioneer of the elegant curves, decorative ironwork and spacious floor plans so essential to the style.

5. Villa Empain

6. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Shop, Architectural Landmark

8. Mont des Arts

9. Musical Instruments Museum

Building, Concert Hall, Museum, Shop, Store

10. Mini-Europe

11. Magritte Museum and Magritte House Museum

12. St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral

13. L’Archiduc

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Beer, Cocktails

If you only frequent one legendary bar while in Brussels, let it be L’Archiduc. Sitting in the authentic wooden booths with a strong cocktail in hand, while listening to the mellow tunes from the jazz piano, it’s easy to see why Miles Davis would pop in for a jam session at this soulful Art Deco establishment. Ring the bell to be let through the magnificent cast-iron door.

14. Van Buuren Museum and Gardens

15. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

16. Train World and Schaerbeek Station

17. Brussels's Winter Wonders

18. place du jeu de balle.

19. Cinquantenaire Park

Museum, Park

20. Bois de la Cambre

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Experience Bright Brussels: The Festival of Light

Uncover the Hidden History of Brussels

The Best Bed and Breakfasts to Book in Brussels, Belgium

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Chocolatier: the best job in brussels.

The Best Hotels in Brussels to Make the Most of the City

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15 best places to visit in Brussels

No trip to western Europe would be complete without visiting Brussels, Belgium's capital city. Read on to discover all the best places to visit in Brussels, as well as practical travel advice for exploring Belgium on a budget.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Sep 10, 2021

Belgium is a small but powerful country. Belgium has played a significant role in European and world history, and it is the current headquarters for the European Union.

It is also an amazing tourist destination. Because it is a small country, it is located only a few hours away from the Netherlands, France, Luxembourg, Germany, and the United Kingdom. You can easily fit Belgium into a tour around Europe .

No trip to Belgium would be complete without visiting Brussels, the capital city. Brussels is a charming city with a lot of history and a lot of fun things to do. The city is relatively small, so it makes a great weekend trip from other nearby European countries.

In addition to the incredible landmarks, monuments, museums, and parks, Brussels is a gastronomic superstar. From the crispy fries served in paper cones, to the loaded Belgian waffles, to the world-famous Belgian beer, there is no shortage of comfort foods to try in Brussels.

In this article, I'll list all the best places to visit in Brussels as well as some other useful travel tips. I'll touch upon general knowledge of Belgium , the best places to visit in Brussels , what to eat and drink in Brussels , the best time to visit , how to get around the city , and helpful safety tips .

I'll also highlight a few Worldpackers work exchanges in Brussels and around Belgium , so travelers who want a deeper cultural experience can volunteer if they want to.

General knowledge of Belgium

Language : French, Flemish

Currency : Euro (€)

Population : 11.4 million (The population of Brussels is 174,383)

Religion : The main religion is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the most popular denomination.

Visas : People from most nationalities do not need a visa for a stay of less than 90 days.

Political significance : Headquarters for the European Union

Best places to visit in Brussels

Brussels has lots of amazing tourist attractions that are affordable, if not free. Here are all the best places to visit in Brussels , most of which are located in the city center and are very accessible for travelers.

1. The Grand Place

2. the museum of musical instruments, 4. the museum of cocoa and chocolate.

5. Place du Jeu de Balle Market

6. Manneken Pis

7. Bois de la Cambre Park

8. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

9. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

10. Cinquantenaire Park

11. The Royal Palace of Brussels and Brussels Park

12. Train World and Schaerbeek Station

13. Winter Wonders

14. The European District

15. Mont des Arts

The Grand Place is the main square of Brussels , and it is easily one of the city's best attractions. 

Quaint cobblestones fill the ground and incredible gold-trimmed buildings surround the square. The most famous building in the Grand Place is the magnificent Town Hall that was built in the early 15th Century.

The architecture and historical significance of the Grand Place is very impressive, and the spot has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This is one of the best places to visit in Brussels for free , and also one of the best places to visit in Brussels during Christmas because the square fills up with charming markets. Even outside the Christmas Season, sometimes you can find a little flower market in the Grand Place on weekends.

For a small fee of €6, you can enter the Museum of Musical Instruments  and embark on a journey through time. The museum displays instruments from lots of different periods in history, some of them small and simple, some of them massive and magnificent.

There are over 7,000 instruments to view, and you'll get a headset that plays the instrument for you when you stand in front of it. This is super cool because you'll be staring at a weird instrument from the middle ages, having no clue what it sounds like, and then your headphones will actually play the music for you so you can understand the instrument better.

On the tenth floor of the museum, you can witness an amazing view of the city. The museum is open on Tuesdays through Fridays from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.

Originally created for the Brussels World's Fair in 1958, Atomium is now a significant landmark and museum of the city. The massive iron spheres are meant to show the composition of an iron crystal, and the whole structure stands at 102 meters tall.

Designed by engineer André Waterkeyn, the landmark symbolizes the importance of science. To enter Atomium, it costs €12 and you can visit all but three of the spheres. Inside is an exhibition that changes from year to year.

The top sphere has a nice restaurant, aunt here are also event spaces inside for various happenings in Brussels. Atomium is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm.

Locally known as the Le Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat , the Chocolate Museum is an amazing place to visit if you're a chocoholic or just a food lover in general. 

Belgian chocolate is world-famous, so why not learn a bit more about how the heavenly treat is made?

The Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate has a lot of interesting chocolate sculptures and informative exhibits, as well as lots of free samples and a spinning wheel pouring out melted chocolate for dipping. You can also watch a demonstration to see exactly what the chocolate making process is like.

The museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is €6.

5. Place du Jeu de Balle Market

This outdoor flea market is also known as the "Old Market" to locals, maybe because the market has been running since 1873. This is one of the most-visited markets in Brussels , and it is open every single day.

The flea market is massive, and you can find everything here from vintage clothes, shoes and accessories, to books, CDs and records, to sculptures and artwork. The theme of the market leans towards the vintage side, so you'll find lots of antiques and unique items.

Even if you don't plan on buying anything, walking through the market is a fun and interesting experience. You'll see lots of cool stuff, including artifacts and antiques from hundreds of years ago.

The market takes place in the Marolles District, where markets and merchants have been thriving since the 17th Century. At 7 am the market opens, and it closes at 2 pm on weekdays and 3 pm on weekends.

This is one of Brussels' weirdest and most famous landmarks . Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a little boy peeing in the fountain below. Locals dress the boy up for events in the city, and even though the statue is silly it has become a vital part of the framework of Brussels.

He represents the joy and lightheartedness of Brussels' citizens, and tourists flock from all over the city to snap a photo of the little boy. This is an easy place to visit in Brussels for free , so if you're in the area you might as well stop by.

7. Bois de la Cambre Park

Just south of the city center lies Bois de la Cambre Park , a public green space that provides an escape from the busy city. The park borders the Sonian Forest and covers over 100 hectares.

You can come here for a day to explore the forest and its walking trails, have a picnic in the grass amongst local families, or to take a short boat ride on the lake.

The park is closed to cars on weekends, so it is a great spot for biking, running, or roller blading without worrying about car traffic. It is also completely free to visit!

8. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

This gothic style Roman Catholic Church is located on Treurenberg Hill and is a beautiful addition to the urban landscape of Brussels. In addition to the Grand Place, this is also one of the best places to visit in Brussels during Christmas as you can often find carolers and concerts here.

It costs only €1 to enter the cathedral, and the opening hours are from 7:30 am to 6 pm on Mondays through Fridays, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on Saturdays, and 2 pm to 6 pm on Sundays.

9. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

For those who like to shop, this is one of the best places to visit in Brussels . Built in the middle 1800s, this indoor shopping center is much more beautiful than your average mall. The ornate decoration, arched windows, and rustic styling makes the shopping center a stunning place to visit even if you don't plan on shopping.

There are three halls: the King's Gallery, the Queen's Gallery and the Princes' Gallery. All three are long and spacious with high ceilings, so this is the perfect place to come and window-shop on a rainy day.

Also known as Jubelpark, this wide green space has lots of museums and monuments in addition to the beautiful gardens, picnic tables, and fountains. The park was built in the 1800s by King Leopold II in order to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence.

There are three museums in the park: Autoworld, the Royal Military Museum and the Cinquantenaire Museum of Art. The most famous landmark in Cinquantenaire Park is the Arcade du Cinquantenaire, which is a magnificent and regal triple arch right in the middle of the park.

11. The Royal Palace of Brussels and Brussels Park

The Royal Palace of Brussels used to be the home for the Royal Family, but they now live in the Royal Palace of Laeken just outside the city. But the King of Belgium still used the Palace of Brussels as his headquarters, so it is a very important building to the city and the country.

The Palace is only open to the public in the summer . During July and August, you can enter the palace for free between the hours of 10:30 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays). This is a great opportunity to witness the grandeur of one of Brussels' most significant buildings. Even for the rest of the year when the palace is closed to the public, it is still amazing to admire the building from the outside.

Brussels Park, also known as Warandepark, is located right next to the palace and is the largest public park inside the city center. So if you don't have enough time to venture to one of the further parks, this is a great stop inside the city for a picnic or a stroll.

12. Train World and Schaerbeek Station

Train World is a relatively new museum in Brussels. It opened in 2015 inside Schaerbeek Station, a rustic red and white striped train station that is a famous landmark in the city.

The museum is, of course, about trains. It has the oldest preserved train in Europe on display, as well as lots of other cool pieces of locomotives throughout history. For those who love trains and learning about history, this is the place for you.

Train World is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day except Mondays . The last admission is at 3:30 pm because they recommend close to 2 hours for a visit. Tickets are €12 for people ages 18-64, and €9 for anyone outside that age range.

13. Winter Wonders

If you are visiting Brussels during the wintertime , you have to check out the Christmas markets. The entire " Winter Wonders " phenomenon is a collection of different Christmas-themed events and locations, and within the realm of Winter Wonders is all the places to visit in Brussels during Christmas .

The Grand Place is one of the most exciting parts of Winter Wonders to visit. Other public squares in the city that become festive are the Place de la Monnaie , the Place Sainte-Catherine , the Place de Brouckère and the Marché aux Poissons . 

Common finds in Winter Wonders are lively Christmas markets selling trinkets, food, and drinks, Christmas trees, light shows, a ferris wheel, merry go rounds and other carnival rides, music performances, and parades.

14. The European District

Brussels is the headquarters for the organization that serves to guide and unite some countries in Europe through economics, politics, and social rights: the European Union. This is such an influential part of European culture and history, so it is cool to see the place where all the magic happens.

The European District is the area where all the European Union offices are based, including the European Commission , the European Parliament , and the Council of Ministers . In the evenings, lots of EU employees hang out in the nearby parks and bars, so it is a very lively area to experience at night.

15. Mont des Arts

One of the best places to visit in Brussels for free is Mont des Arts , which translates to "Mountain of Arts." This is an area in central Brussels and was built under the orders of Leopold II. This king clearly had a lot of influence over the city and created lots of monuments that remain in modern Brussels.

In Mont des Arts, you can find landscaped gardens, statues, fountains, and other displays of public art, stairs leading up to a spectacular view, lots of museums, the Royal Library of Belgium and the National Archives of Belgium .

Many of the other Brussels attractions are located within walking distance of this central hub, so you'll definitely pass through here a few times while exploring Brussels. Mont des Arts is great for photo opportunities and for acting as a starting point for sightseeing in Brussels .

What to eat in Brussels

Belgium has so many local foods that are simply delicious. No visit to Belgium is complete without indulging in a few of the country's specialties.

Brussels is quite cosmopolitan, so you can find lots of international cuisines in addition to the local classics. There is a Chinatown in the city where you can find delicious Chinese food, and all the usual international restaurants, like Italian, Thai, American, Indian and Japanese are scattered all over the city.

But for those who want to taste the staple food items of Belgium, here are the best foods to try in Belgium .

The Belgian Waffle

Belgian waffles are heavenly. They are light and fluffy, but large and thick at the same time. You can get them topped with everything under the sun, and they are cheap and plentiful in Brussels.

There are two main types of Belgian waffles: the Brussels waffle and the  Liege waffle . A classic, fluffy Brussels waffle is the most popular, whereas the Leige waffle is a bit denser and doughier with sugar chunks caramelized into the dough.

You can't walk a few blocks through Brussels without finding a waffle shop. But some of the best cafés or restaurants to find classic Belgian waffles are Gaufres de Bruxelles , Maison Dandoy , Mokafé , and the café located right next to Manneken Pis, Le Funambule .

Pomme Frittes

For those who think french fries are French, think again. Classic french fries were actually created in Belgium, and the locals refer to them as "pomme frites." However, Belgian fries are much better than your average French fry from McDonalds.

They are soft on the inside and extra crispy on the outside, mainly because they are always cut by hand and fried twice. Sometimes they are cooked in animal fat for extra flavor, and they are usually served in a paper or cardboard cone with sauces on the side.

You can find Belgian fries in restaurants and cafés, but most locals get them from little stands or stalls in the street. Some of the best places to try high quality Belgian fries are Fritland , Belgian Frites , Chez Fernand and Chez Clémentine .

Belgian Chocolate

For those who love chocolate, (and seriously, who doesn't love chocolate?) Belgium has some of the best chocolate in the world. 

Lots of well-known chocolate companies around the world, like Godiva , Neuhaus , and Côte d'Or , were founded in Brussels. There is an abundance of chocolate shops all over the city, in addition to the Chocolate Museum .

Pierre Marcolini is one of the greats, Laurent Gerbaud specializes in dark chocolate, and Zaabär Chocolate Factory and Planète Chocolat both have chocolate-making workshops available. In any of these shops you can buy chocolate bars, truffles, drinking chocolate and other snacks, all in unique flavors or just plain.

All you have to do is wander to any chocolate shop you see and taste anything your heart desires; you definitely won't be disappointed.

Pastries and Desserts

If waffles and chocolate aren't enough, indulge in some of Belgium's best pastries. People normally associate lots of desserts with France, including éclairs and macarons, but you can still find high quality ones in Belgium due to the close geographical proximity.

Éclairs et Gourmandises is an amazing bakery that sells sweet and savory éclairs. Ladurée is a famous Paris-based dessert shop that also has a location in Brussels, so you can try these colorful little treats there.

Other pastries that are native to Belgium are mattentaart, a flaky pastry stuffed with cheesecake, Flemish beignets, hot dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar, and merveilleux, little meringue cakes covered in cream, chocolate chips, and any other desired toppings like fruit or nuts.

Like chocolate shops, bakeries and pastry shops are scattered all over Brussels so you won't have any trouble finding some sweet treats in the city. Some of the most famous bakeries in Brussels are Les Temps des Tartines , Charli , and Chouconut .

Where to drink in Brussels

Heading to a pub, bar or restaurant for a glass of beer or wine is a widespread part of European culture. But beer is definitely the most cherished beverage in Belgium.

The Belgians have been making beer for hundreds of years now, and their beer is known and loved all over the globe. There are so many different beers produced in Belgium that you just have to ask the locals what they recommend.

If you're a beer fanatic, you can definitely learn a lot about Belgian beer just by talking to the local bartenders and brewers. Even if you are not a huge fan of beer, kick back in a bar and order a glass or two just to taste the country's favorite beverage.

Delirium Café is the most famous place to drink beer in Brussels. This café holds the Guinness World Record for the most beers offered in one establishment. They sell over 2,000 beers, so you have lots of options when ordering a drink!

Toone is a classy bar that also doubles as a puppet theater, and L'Archiduc Bar is a rustic jazz bar with lots of high quality international wine options.

Other highly rated and unique places to drink around Brussels are Goupil Le Fol Wine Bar and À La Mort Subite .

The best time of year to visit Brussels

Located in northern Europe, Belgium has a temperate climate, meaning the summers are warm and the winters are cold.

Summer has the nicest weather, with warm temperatures and sunny days that are perfect for exploring. Because summer is peak tourist season, the city's attractions get a bit more crowded and flights are a little more expensive.

The winter can get very cold and bitter, so the weather is not ideal. But the charming Christmas Markets that fill the city in December make the cold seem cheerful and festive rather than dreary. Brussels is magical at Christmastime, and because this is the off-season the flights to Belgium will be a bit cheaper.

Spring and Autumn are probably the best times to visit Belgium . The weather is favorable and the crowds are tame. But there really is not any bad time to visit Belgium!

Safety in Brussels

Brussels is, overall, an extremely safe city for travelers to visit. Public transport is straightforward, though you can pretty much walk anywhere.

The biggest concern while traveling to Brussels is petty crime like theft and pickpocketing. To avoid these issues, follow simple travel safety tips and just keep your wits about you while exploring the city. Try to avoid walking alone, especially at night. While walking through crowded areas, keep a close eye on your belongings and leave most of your valuables locked up in a safe in your hostel or hotel.

The biggest crowds you'll find in Brussels are in the Grand Place and in the Christmas Markets. Just be smart while exploring these areas, especially at busy times. If you use common sense, you shouldn't have any problems in Brussels.

How to get around Brussels

This is easily the best way to get around Brussels. The city is small and pedestrian-friendly, so it is very simple to reach all the best attractions on foot. You should probably have a map or a navigation app like Maps.Me or Google Maps to help you navigate your way around.

It is very common to hire bikes in Brussels so you can travel more quickly around the city. Some popular bike rental places are CyCLO , Pro Velo , Blue-bike , and Swapfiets . Jump and Billy Bike also offer shared electric bikes for rent.

The metro in Brussels is very simple. It has only six lines, and a one hour ticket costs €2,10. You always have to validate your ticket before you get on the subway to avoid being charged a fine.

Bus or Tram

The bus is a bit slower than the metro and a ticket also costs €2,10. The tram is another great public transport option, as it runs on its own tracks and doesn't interfere with road traffic.

You can buy a bus or tram ticket in a metro station or local newsstand. On the bus, you can even buy a ticket from the driver, but it is recommended to buy your ticket beforehand just in case the driver runs out of tickets. If you plan on taking lots of public transport, you can get an unlimited one day pass for only €6.

Traveling in and out of Brussels

Europe has such an advanced system of public transportation that traveling around is a breeze.

Trains and long-distance buses are cheap and easy when traveling to other cities in Belgium or to other nearby countries. Brussels also has an international airport for flying in and out of the country.

For those who really want to save money while traveling , you can also take an overnight bus to and from Brussels to nearby cities like Amsterdam , Paris or London . Overnight buses aren’t the most comfortable, but they are super cheap and they help you save money for a night's accommodation.

Worldpackers experiences in Brussels

If you have a few weeks or more to spend in Brussels, why not try something different than the average tourist experience?

Doing a work exchange allows you to live like a local while working in exchange for free accommodation. This means you can experience the local culture more in-depth while saving money. 

For budget travelers who are keen to learn about different ways of life and have enriching cultural exchanges, this is the perfect opportunity .

There are two amazing volunteering opportunities within Brussels , both of them in hostels. Hostels are amazing places to do a work exchange because they are social environments where you can meet lots of locals and other travelers. You are bound to make close new friends, and you'll have ample time to explore Brussels on your time off.

This hostel needs housekeepers and bartenders . You will work 27 hours per week with one day off, and you'll have free breakfast, lunch and dinner in addition to a free bed in a shared staff dorm. You will also get free laundry and events, and you'll get to learn some useful new skills.

This hostel needs kitchen-hands, gardeners, housekeepers, and reception workers . There are different jobs here to suit all sorts of skill sets, and you'll have three days off per week plus free breakfast. 

If you are traveling around Belgium, there are plenty of other work exchanges available around the country . For example, you can volunteer at a holistic retreat center in Kapelle-op-den-Bos , help out with garden projects at a retreat center in Galmaarden , or learn about permaculture at an eco-farm in Heist-op-den-Berg . These volunteer experiences allow you to get outside, connect with nature and work with your hands.

For those who prefer the cities and like the idea of working in a fun, social hostel, you can also volunteer in hostels in Bruges or Antwerp . 

So head on over to Belgium, do a work exchange, explore Brussels, eat lots of waffles and chocolate, drink beer, and enjoy yourself!

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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28 Best & Fun Things To Do In Brussels (Belgium)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: October 8, 2020  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of the best cities in Europe.

Here, you’ll encounter rich culture, fascinating historical sites, and some very lovely people.

We want you to have the best experience in Brussels imaginable, so we’ve made this list of the 28 top things to do there.

Table of Contents

1. The Belgian Comic Strip Centre

Bibiana Castagna / Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Brussels is to visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre .

You might not realize this, but comic books have a massive importance in Belgium.

So many great stories and characters have sprung from Belgian authors and illustrators.

For instance, the iconic Tintin was created by a Belgian cartoonist, Hergé.

Going to the Belgian Comic Strip Centre is one of the most fun things to do in Brussels.

Here you can check out galleries on the various histories of comics as well as ones highlighting different notable figures in the industry.

There are also some excellent temporary exhibitions displayed here.

If you’re looking for rewarding activities in Brussels, come to the Belgian Comic Strip Centre.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission starts at €8.

Address: Rue des Sables 20, Brussels 1000, Belgium

2. Brussels City Museum

olrat / Shutterstock

The Brussels City Museum is what to see to really learn about how far Brussels has come.

It’s full of fun and significant pieces chronicling the impressive history of this impressive city.

Come to Grand-Place so you can see this amazing museum for yourself.

When you plan your trip , you need to consider the Brussels City Museum.

It’s located in the “Maison du Roi” and certainly feels historical from the outside.

When you enter, you’ll get to see all kinds of great pieces from Brussels’ story.

Each of its floors shows different qualities, including artistic talent and how people lived during times like The Middle Ages.

Come to the Brussels City Museum for a splendid education.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is €8 for adults, €6 for seniors, €4 for students, and free for anyone under 18.

Address:  Grand Place 2, Brussels 1000, Belgium

3. Maison Dandoy

Matthieu Alexandre / Shutterstock

The waffles you get in Belgium might not be the Belgian waffles you have at your favorite brunch spot, but they’re definitely delicious.

One of the best places to go for these is Maison Dandoy .

It’s one of the biggest tourist attractions for waffles and other dandy delights.

Coming to Maison Dandoy is what to do in Brussels if you love great food.

It’s not the most sophisticated food, but the flavor and love are all there.

Try their renowned waffles, or just have a nice cup of tea.

It’s places like Maison Dandoy that make Brussels such an excellent place to visit.

We hope that you’re able to make at least one visit and really soak up the environment and see how lovely it is.

Maison Dandoy lets you feel at home, even when you’re pretty far away.

Address:  Rue au Beurre 31, Brussels 1000, Belgium

4. BELvue Museum

BELvue museum

The BELvue Museum is one of the most intriguing museums in Belgium.

This is another museum that teaches all about Belgium’s history.

It’s also a beautiful place itself, with each room and hall having its own sort of charm and atmosphere.

The BELvue Museum is one of the top sights in Brussels.

There’s so much goodness in the collection, from sports memorabilia to pristine decorative pieces.

This is all done with the noble goal of showing just how much this city has to teach us.

When you’re at the BELvue Museum, you’re amongst some of the coolest stuff in Belgium.

The BELvue Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is €7 for adults, €6 for seniors, €5 for young people, ages 18 to 25, and free for anyone under 18.

Address:  Place des Palais 7, Brussels 1000, Belgium

5. Coudenberg

Reino Baptista / CC BY-SA

Want to see what was one a crucial part of Belgium’s government?

Come to the Coudenberg in Brussels.

This was where many important figures worked, including counts and emperors.

For centuries, the Coudenberg helped to shape Belgium and beyond.

It’s now one of the most fun tourist attractions in the city.

This is what to see in Brussels for an invaluable history lesson.

This was once home of the Palace of Brussels.

As the palace stood upon this hill, it looked absolutely extraordinary.

A fire ravaged it in 1731, and the Place-Royal was built over the remains.

However, you still see what survived of the palace thanks to the BELvue Museum.

You can feel like an archaeologist doing an excavation.

Coudenberg is massively important to Brussels’ history, and it should never be forgotten

6. The Bourse

Oleksandr Osipov / Shutterstock

Although The Bourse is the stock exchange in Belgium, you don’t need to know much about the economy to enjoy seeing it.

That’s because its appeal goes beyond stocks.

It’s a marvelous building that also features some remarkable exhibitions.

The Bourse is one of Brussels’ best sites.

Acclaimed sculptor Rodin helped to design the outside of the building.

In-person trading at The Bourse hasn’t occurred since 1996.

Today, it is primarily used for events, such as musical performances.

When you see The Bourse, you’ll see why so many people are drawn to it and want to host events there.

It looks so powerful on the outside and inside.

Visit The Bourse so you can see one of the most remarkable buildings in all of Belgium.

Address:  Place de la Bourse, Brussels 1000, Belgium

7. Madame Mustache

Madame Mustache

There are so many great clubs in Brussels.

However, if you want to check out a must see one, come to Madame Mustache .

This is an awesome place to have a few drinks and meet some great people.

You’ll also be sure to love the service and entertainment here.

Madame Mustache is one of the most fun places to visit in Belgium.

If you have specific music tastes, you’ll hopefully find something to your liking.

Where else can you find swing music and DJ performances?

Take the time to enjoy some good Belgian beer as you cheer on these amazing entertainers.

Vacation is for kicking back, and going to Madame Mustache in Brussels lets you do just that.

Remember to act responsibly and keep yourself safe.

Madame Mustache is open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 2:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  Quai au Bois à Brûler 5/7, Brussels 1000, Belgium

8. Maison de la Bellone

Werner Lerooy / Shutterstock

Dating back to the late 15th century, the Maison de la Bellone is one of the coolest places to see in Brussels.

It looks beautiful, inside and out.

A significant arts institution, the Maison de la Bellone is a significant piece of Belgium’s cultural essence.

Belgium is one of the best countries to visit thanks to places like Maison de la Bellone.

This site was first built in the late 15th century.

Originally, it was owned by husband and wife Nicolas Bally and Gertrude de Smeth.

Today, Maidson de la Ballone is an excellent place for performances and preservation.

An experience like a concert in its courtyard is something you absolutely cannot pass up.

When you’re at Maison de la Bellone, you’re amongst beauty of the highest order.

Let yourself be entranced by each aspect of this space, past and present.

It’s open on Mondays from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. and from Tuesdays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address:  Rue de Flandre 46, Brussels 1000, Belgium

9. Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

TTstudio / Shutterstock

There’s perhaps no religious building in Belgium as important as the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels.

Originally just honoring St. Michael, this cathedral has expanded over the centuries.

This should be on any bucket list of churches to see.

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a must see place for Catholics and others.

It’s one of the most stunning Brussels attractions.

The first iteration seems to go back as early as the 8th century.

Although it wasn’t named as a cathedral until 1961, it has long been a major religious institution.

You can still come here for Sunday Mass or certain Saturdays, go up the cathedral’s famous pair of towers.

You don’t need to be Catholic to appreciate the wonders of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula.

It’s an amazing place that continues to draw in visitors.

The cathedral is open from Mondays to Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Address:  Place Sainte-Gudule, Brussels 1000, Belgium

10. Cafe Belga

Kmeron / flickr

Most big cities have at least one iconic eatery where you’ll find a large crowd most any night.

For Brussels, that’s Cafe Belga .

Come here if you want to get a solid bite to eat and encounter some wonderful local flavor.

It’s tourist attractions like this that make Brussels such a fun place to visit.

Eating at Cafe Belga is one of the best activities in Brussels.

It’s where to go for all kinds of delicious menu options, including coffee and croissants.

There’s a lot of fun people-watching to experience as well.

Cafe Belga can be a great place to cap off a busy day.

Experiences like Cafe Belga need to be savored.

You might be reminded of places back home or other buzzing cafes you’ve been to, but there’s none quite like this.

Any given visit is going to give you something to think back on fondly, whether you’re coming for breakfast or a late-night treat.

Cafe Belga is open every day from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Address:  Place Eugène Flagey 18, Brussels 1050, Belgium

11. Magritte Museum

Maykova Galina / Shutterstock

René Magritte was one of the most dynamic Belgian artists ever.

His surrealist style made for some absolutely unforgettable pieces.

The Magritte Museum in Brussels is one of the top tourist attractions in Belgium.

Here’s you can see all sorts of amazing works and learn about Magritte’s legacy.

There are plenty of amazing things to see at the Magritte Museum, thanks to Magritte’s talent and the museum’s curation.

Many of the best pieces show Magritte’s skill in depicting female figures.

This is part of the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique, which also includes the Oldmasters and Wiertz Museums.

You might not know much of anything about René Magritte.

However, the Magritte Museum only asks that you be willing to learn.

You’ll hopefully be amazed by the work you see here and want to learn more.

The Magritte Museum is open from Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is €10 for adults, €8 for seniors, €3 for students, and free for visitors under 19.

Address:  Place Royale 1, Brussels 1000, Belgium

12. Notre Dame Du Sablon

trabantos / Shutterstock

Notre Dame Du Sablon is one of the biggest points of interest in Brussels.

Its a remarkable cathedral that goes back hundreds of years.

It’s one of the most incredible sites in Belgium, as you’ll see when you learn more about its history.

Going to Notre Dame Du Sablon is what to do if you want to learn about Brussels’ religious history.

It was first built in the 15th century and may remind you of the Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula.

While this isn’t one of the biggest cathedrals, qualities like its pulpit and stained-glass windows definitely make it a sight to behold.

Notre Dame Du Sablon’s majesty is more than clear.

This cathedral is open from Mondays to Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

There’s no cost for admission.

Address:  Rue des Sablons, Brussels 1000, Belgium

13. Musical Instrument Museum

Jordan Tan / Shutterstock

Music is like a language that transcends barriers.

It’s in large thanks to musical instruments that we’re able to have such communication.

The Musical Instrument Museum , located in Brussels, showcases thousands of beautiful instruments.

It’s one of the top places to visit if you’re a musician.

You can still have fun at the Musical Instrument Museum, musician or not.

There are lots of unusual things here that could really tickle your fancy.

Human history is full of creative passions, and musical instruments, be they percussion, woodwind, string, or something else, have let people really express themselves.

A visit to this museum might just inspire you to get your own musical act off the ground.

If nothing else, you can see the origins of different types of modern instruments.

If you’re looking for activities to do with music lovers in Brussels, come to the Musical Instrument Museum.

There’s just so much to be excited by here.

Admission is €10 for adults, ages 19 to 64, €8 for seniors, €4 for art students and unemployed people, and free for people 18 and younger.

Address:  Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, Brussels 1000, Belgium

14. Le Botanique

Santi Rodriguez / Shutterstock

Le Botanique is great for people who love nature and culture.

This was once Brussels’ botanical gardens but could now be better described as a greenhouse that hosts events.

It’s still one of the best places to visit, and they definitely haven’t forgotten their plant-based roots.

Going to Le Botanique is unquestionably one of the top things to do in Brussels.

The flora really helps to amplify the excitement of whatever event you’re seeing.

This is especially true for seeing concerts.

You might feel like you’ve been brought to a new world when you’re at this amazing Brussels venue.

For an invigorating Brussels experience, come to Le Botanique.

It’s unique and exquisite.

Le Botanique is open from Monday to Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

You can get admission by purchasing a €28 Brussels Card, which also allows for admission to many other hotspots, including no-cost entry to 41 different museums.

Address: Rue Royale 236, Saint-Josse-ten-Noode, Brussels 1210, Belgium

15. La Grand-Place

Piith Hant / Shutterstock

La Grand-Place is arguably the most famous part of Brussels.

This square is host to the local Town Hall, stores, and places to eat and learn.

Just about any Brussels travel guide you read will talk about La Grand-Place.

When you come here, you’ll see exactly why it’s so revered.

The sights and activities of La Grand-Place are numerous.

Among the best things to do here are to see concerts or special events like the Brussels Christmas tree installation.

It’s also a great place to congregate and enjoy the company of your fellow people.

Whether you’re at La Grand-Place for a special occasion or just for the fun of it, this is a really awesome site.

La Grand-Place isn’t the only great about Brussels.

However, it’s definitely one of the greatest.

Address: Grand Place Brussels Main Square, Brussels 1000, Belgium

16. Royal Palace of Brussels

S-F / Shutterstock

If you’re in Brussels during the summer, come see the Royal Palace of Brussels .

Used by Belgium’s royal clan, it’s truly fit for a king and a queen.

Royal Palace of Brussels is gorgeous and mightily impressive.

Royal Palace of Brussels is where to go if you really want to feel amazed by Belgium’s history.

This is also part of La Grand-Place, and you can certainly see why royalty would want this building in such a prestigious location.

While this isn’t where the king and queen actually live, it is used for special occasions.

Visiting the Royal Palace of Brussels is only possible during the summer.

However, you can still get a good glimpse at this massive palace from outside.

The Royal Palace of Brussels is a true Brussels phenomenon.

Address:  Rue Brederode 16, Brussels 1000, Belgium

17. Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock

Those who love learning about the military needs to come to this museum.

It’s part of the famed Cinquantenaire Park, but it’d be worth visiting no matter what.

This is one of the best things to do in Brussels if you have any military members in your group.

One of the top places to visit in the world for learning about the military, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History has many phenomenal exhibitions.

Here, you can check out collections dedicated to Dutch and Russian military history as well as aviation.

There’s a lot more where that came from.

This museum provides one of the most comprehensive looks into the military world you’ll ever get.

Going to the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History is one of the best experiences in Brussels.

It’s open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission to the museum is €10 for adults and €8 for students, teachers, and guests ages six to 19.

Address:  Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels 1000, Belgium

18. Atomium

Chris Friese / flickr

With a name that sounds like a comic book hero, Atomium is one of the best things to see in Brussels.

Part of Heysel Park, Atomium is a massive replica of an atom.

When you’re sightseeing in Brussels, Atomium needs to be part of your plan.

The Atomium is a fun place to see and take pictures in front of.

It was originally brought in as part of a World’s Fair exhibition.

Today, it is a major icon for an iconic city.

It’s also a great place to come if you’re a real science geek, as you can think of how much power is within one atom.

Think about how much power is within one mind, and how much creative power matters to getting things done.

Atomium stands for many things.

There’s the wonders of science, the splendor of Brussels, and the overall strength of the human spirit.

Address:  Square de l’Atomium, Brussels 1020, Belgium

19. Brussels Gueuze Museum

Brussels Gueuze Museum

When you’re tasting delicious beer, especially in Belgium, it’s worth taking a time to appreciate how it was made and how techniques have advanced over the centuries.

The Brussels Gueuze Museum lets you see how incredible beer production is.

Part of the Cantillon Brewery, it’s a must-visit place for any beer lover.

Going to the Brussels Gueuze Museum is something you must do if you really care about beer.

They use old-fashioned means to brew their Lambic, and these are ways that work.

You can really taste how much love is put into every batch.

Belgium’s Senne Valley provides the bacteria and yeast that makes lambics possible.

The taste is distinct and this museum is the best place to see how it all comes together.

For more than a century, this brewery has been a wonder for Brussels, and it should continue to be so.

The Brussels Gueuze Museum is a delicious and satisfying experience.

We hope that you’re able to enjoy the delights here.

When you’re around people who have dedicated their lives to making sure a legacy persists, it’s difficult to not be moved.

This museum is open on Mondays and Tuesdays and from Thursdays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Address: Rue Gheude 56, Brussels 1070, Belgium

20. Manneken Pis

Anibal Trejo / Shutterstock

You may see some statues in Brussels that will leave you very contemplative.

The Manneken Pis is a little bit different.

However, seeing it is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Brussels.

You definitely won’t be able to get it off your mind.

This statue’s name translates in Flemish to “little pee man.”

It’s easy to see why, as it depicts a small boy urinating.

Made of bronze and standing only 24 inches tall, it’s not exactly what most people would call “high art.”

However, it has a proud legacy in Brussels.

During different times of the year, such as during Christmas, it will be dressed in appropriate garb.

There are even times when beer will flow forth.

We totally understand if you don’t want to associate beer with that, though.

Manneken Pis is an attraction you can’t help but appreciate.

It might have you shaking your head a little bit, but if you can loosen up, you can enjoy it.

Manneken Pis is located near Brussels’ town hall.

Address: 46 Rue de l’Etuve corner of rue du Chene and rue de l’Etuve, Brussels 1000, Belgium

21. Train World

CapturePB / Shutterstock

Among the top things to do in Brussels with family is going to Train World .

This is a really cool museum that shows how important trains are to Belgium.

There’s so much greatness to be uncovered, and Train World lets you learn about in a fun manner.

Train World is one of the most fun places to visit for train enthusiasts.

It does an excellent job of teaching visitors about trains, from steam-powered to modern technologies.

Places like their two rehabilitated train stations really show just how much train travel has mattered for people over the centuries.

Thanks to breakthroughs in technology, train commuters have been able to get to work and travel safely and efficiently.

Train World teaches all about these feats and others.

Visitors to Train World are treated to amazing sights and knowledge.

You might want to ride more trains after coming here.

Train World is located in the municipality of Schaerbeek and is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is €12 for adults, €9 for seniors and children, and free for children six and under.

Address: Place Princesse Elisabeth 5 1030 Schaarbeek, Schaerbeek, Brussels 1030, Belgium

22. Old England Building

Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock

The Old England Building is one of the most interesting buildings in Brussels.

It’s actually not all that old, having been built in 1899.

What was once a department store is now housing the Musical Instrument Museum.

Its design also makes it one of the greatest points of interest in Brussels.

One of the main attractions in Brussels, the Old England Building has so much worth appreciating about it.

The iron design is full of power.

You can also get an excellent meal at the cafe on top.

Let it never be said that Belgians don’t know how to find multiple uses for things.

The Old England Building represents new opportunities and how much one building can provide for a city.

There’s no telling exactly the future holds for it, but it should be something great.

After all, they have a reputation to uphold.

VISITFLANDERS / flickr

The Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art is one of the top 10 art museums in Brussels.

Be advised, however, this is a very eclectic museum.

This should be your bucket list if you love original art.

The MIMA is one of the best Brussels attractions for art.

While it’s a fairly new museum, having opened in 2016, it has quickly become an important part of the cultural scene in Belgium.

In its permanent collection are around 90 pieces.

Different mediums are spotlighted here, from photography to acrylics to charcoal.

Special exhibitions like “Zoo” are also especially captivating.

When you come to MIMA, you might find yourself saying “Oh my” at many of the pieces.

Address: Quai du Hainaut 39-41 Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, Brussels 1080, Belgium

24. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Carla Freund / Shutterstock

While this attraction does feature greenhouses, it goes much further than that.

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken is one of King Leopold II’s most impressive works.

It’s a sprawling estate that should fill you with amazement, both at its beauty and its ambition.

You can have an amazing time when you’re at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken.

Even compared to other great Brussels attractions, the Royal Greenhouse of Laeken stands out.

The Royal Castle of Laeken is where the royal family resides, and this installation is a great addition for any estate, even a royal one.

There are amazing plants here, including ones King Leopold II originally brought in.

The sturdy pavilions add even more eye candy to the experience.

We especially love visiting the Winter Garden, with its amazing palm trees.

Going to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken is one of the top experiences you can have in Brussels.

It’s only open to the public for a few weeks during the spring.

Therefore, you should keep this in mind when scheduling your trip.

Address:  Avenue du Parc Royal 61, Brussels 1020, Belgium

25. Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

Alexander Narraina / Shutterstock

There are lots of great places for beer in Brussels, but the best experience is drinking and learning.

A Brussels Beer Tasting Tour takes you to various hot spots for a cold one.

This is one of the top Brussels attractions, as you’ll get to enjoy your favorite beverage and learn all kinds of great things about it.

A beer tasting tour is one of the best travel hacks for visiting this city.

You can stop by some of the coolest places for beer in one of the coolest cities for it.

There are many tours to choose from, but our favorite is the Beer Tasting Experience .

This introduces you to five different beers in an hour.

You can really swoon at all the flavors and be wowed by all the cool things you get to learn about beer.

Whichever beer tour you pick, we hope you find one you can really enjoy.

It’s one thing to go out for a beer.

It’s quite another to be able to enjoy an excellent curated experience like this.

Address:  Rue des Foulons 30, Brussels 1000, Belgium

26. Autoworld

NiglayNik / Shutterstock

Another great museum at the Cinquantenaire is Autoworld .

It’s an excellent attraction for car lovers in Brussels.

You can also have a lot of fun if your knowledge of cars is quite limited.

There are lots of amazing vehicles and fascinating pieces of history to learn about.

Autoworld is what to see if you love cars or want to nurture some budding enthusiasm.

On display are cars that blown away with their colors and builds.

You’ll get to learn about the importance of cars over the years, from their use in transportation, competition, or simply as status symbols.

There are also motorcycles and trucks showcased here.

This museum really does feel like another world.

We take cars for granted, but there was a time when their presence just seemed like something out of a sci-fi pipe dream.

We can appreciate Autoworld for how it shows us the evolution of this technology.

Autoworld is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission is €12 for adults, €10 for seniors, €9 for students and disabled people, and €5 for children, ages six to 11.

Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 11, Brussels 1000, Belgium

27. Fashion & Lace Museum

Charlotte Powell / flickr

Numerous sophisticated outfits have been made out of lace.

In Belgium’s fashion world, this material has been very important.

The Fashion & Lace Museum is an excellent place to learn about the crucial role Belgium played in popularizing lace.

One of the top places to visit for learning about fashion, this museum has amazing displays and equally amazing stories.

The thousands of pieces in their collection go back as far as the 16th century.

When you’re here, you can see how much the right material and the right eye can create a piece of clothing that’s more akin to a work of art.

No one knows lace quite like Brussels, and the Fashion & Lace Museum reiterates this.

You can be spellbound by these garments and find yourself learning a lot about fashion here.

The Fashion & Lace Museum is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free if you have a Brussels Card.

Address:  Rue de la Violette 12, Brussels 1000, Belgium

28. Parc du Cinquantenaire

cge2010 / Shutterstock

As we’ve mentioned, there are all kinds of great things at the Parc du Cinquantenaire , but the park itself is plenty great.

It’s a huge pentagon park that’s full of attractions, including a gorgeous archway.

Really, though, the entire park should be seen as one giant attraction.

Spending time at the Parc du Cinquantenaire is both fun and rewarding.

This is 74 acres of unspoiled beauty.

The human-made additions increase the aesthetic appeal.

It’s great to come here to explore the various gardens, see special events like fireworks, or just hang out.

Parc du Cinquantenaire is amazing.

It was created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence.

When you come here, you’ll see it’s a more-than-fitting tribute.

Address: Avenue de la Renaissance, Brussels 1000, Belgium

Start Planning Your Trip To Brussels

We hope we’ve shown you how much fun can be in Brussels.

There are great activities that teach you all about this region’s amazing history in a fun way.

With excellent sightseeing and all sorts of must do experiences, Brussels is a very special city for very special people.

Take along a good travel guide and look forward to all the wonderful experiences you’ll get to have in Brussels, Belgium.

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Top 10 best things to see & do in Brussels (capital of Belgium)

Monday  newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best things to see & do in Brussels

The multicultural metropolis of Brussels is not only the capital of my home country Belgium , but also the unofficial capital of the European Union. The Lonely Planet describes Brussels as “historic yet hip, bureaucratic yet bizarre, self-confident yet unshowy” and I couldn’t agree more. Brussels is one of Europe’s most underrated tourist destinations, since it lacks the star attractions of other European capitals like Paris, London and Rome (except for its stunning Grand Place, the world’s most beautiful square).  However, Brussels has more than enough things to do to keep visitors occupied for a couple of days, offering world-class museums, famous art galleries, century-old architecture, magnificent parks, and some of the best dining in the world. Here’s my list of the top 10 tourist attractions & sites of interest in Brussels, the political heart of Europe.

Below, you can watch my YouTube video (in 4K ultra HD) with a walking tour of Brussels (featuring some stunning sights & heavenly music). What is your favorite spot in Brussels? Leave a comment .

10. MANNEKEN PIS

This bronze statuette, created in the 17th century, embodies the irreverent spirit of Brussels. Also known as “Little Julian”, it was one of the many fountains serving the city. Manneken Pis was kidnapped in 1745 for the first time by the English. Two years later, it was the turn of the French to steal him. Hearing of this, Louis XV gave him, by way of reparation for this outrage, a rich costume in gold brocade and decorated him with the cross of Saint-Louis. In 1817, the statuette was stolen again, this time by a reprieved French convict, and was found broken in pieces. The fragments were used to make the statuette which you can see today on the old fountain. From being a public fountain, the little fellow has now become a legendary figure and a symbol of Brussels’ rebellious spirit.

9. RUE DES BOUCHERS

The Rue des Bouchers – or Butcher Street in English – is a medieval street complex of three picturesque alleys in the historic center of Brussels that is is lined by dozens of restaurants. Some say the restaurant density in these streets is the highest one in the world. The restaurants serve all kinds of dishes, including local dishes like Brussels Stoemp with sausage and Belgium’s famous Moules Frites (mussels with fries). Unfortunately, the restaurants here don’t serve the best food and the district is often labeled as a tourist trap. My advise is to visit the historic food street to experience the atmosphere, but to dine elsewhere in one of Brussels’ many great restaurants, which are mainly centered around the Place du Chatelain area, the church of St. Boniface, and Place Stephanie. You won’t be disappointed since Belgium is known to have some of the best food in the world.

8. CATHEDRAL OF ST MICHAEL & ST GUDULA

The Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula is one of the most important landmarks in Brussels. It was built in a Gothic style at the beginning of the 13th century on the foundations of a Romanesque church established in the 11th century. The actual cathedral took 300 hundred years to complete. The cathedral was initially called the church of St Michael until, in 1047, the relics of the martyr of St Gudula were brought to the church. This is when the church was renamed St Michael and St Gudula. Although the cathedral was built centuries ago, it was only given the cathedral status in 1962. It features a splendid interior with magnificent stained glass windows dating from the Middle Ages.

An iconic symbol of Brussels en Belgium, an important place for international tourism, and a unique creation in the history of architecture, the Atomium is today the most popular tourist attraction of Europe’s Capital. The Atomium was constructed for the first post-war universal world exhibition, also knows as EXPO 58. The building’s nine spheres represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, and symbolize the faith in the power of  science (especially in nuclear science). The Atomium’s top floor houses an observation deck and a restaurant, which can be reached by elevator or via a surrealistic walk through tubes, spheres and art displays.

• Website : Atomium

6. ROYAL PALACE

The Royal Palace is where the King of Belgium exercises his authority as Head of Stateand is the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium. However, the massive building is not used as a royal residence, as the king and his family live in the Royal Palace of Laeken on the outskirts of Brussels. The Royal Palace was built on the site of the former Palace of the Dukes of Brabant which was destroyed by fire in 1731. Started in 1820 under the reign of King William, it was modified in 1904 under Leopold II, who had it rebuilt in Louis XVI style. The side wings date from the 18th century and at the end of each wing there is a pavilion. Each summer, the palace is open to the public.

5. CINQUENTENAIRE

The Cinquantenaire (50th anniversary) site is comprised of a vast set of gardens dotted with monuments and museums. It is dominated by a triumphal arch with three arches. At the top of the three triumphal arches there’s a bronze quadriga and an unbeatable sweeping view over Brussels and its surroundings. This place of interest was built in 1880 for the 50th anniversary of the independence of Belgium. The park’s broad pathways lead to the Pavilion of Human Passions designed by Victor Horta, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces & Military History, the Royal Museums of Art and History and to Autoworld. The park hosts numerous activities throughout the year (e.g. events, celebrations, firework displays, sporting events, concerts, etc …).

4. MAGRITTE MUSEUM

The Magritte Museum opened its doors on the 2nd of June 2009 in a wing located within an enormous complex that is known as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. The multidisciplinary Magritte collection is the largest one of its kind in the world and assembles over 230 pieces: oil paintings on canvas, gouaches, sketches, sculptures and painted objects as well as advertising posters, music scores, old photographs and films made by Magritte himself. René Magritte was a Belgian surrealist artist, who became well known for creating a number of witty and thought-provoking images. Often depicting ordinary objects in an unusual context, his work is known for challenging observers’ preconditioned perceptions of reality.

• Website : Magritte Museum

3. MONT DES ARTS GARDENS

The Mont Des Arts is an extension of the neighborhood around the Royal Palace. Situated on the North-South axis that used to connect the lower, working-class part of Brussels with the upper, aristocratic part, the Mont des Arts has had quite an eventful history. The park was created by Jules Vacherot at the request of the infamous King Leopold II in the run-up to the Expo of 1910, and redesigned by landscape architect René Pechère for the Expo 58. The geometrical gardens are surrounded by the imposing structures of the Royal Library of Belgium and the Congress Palace. Due to its hillside location, the Mont Des Arts offers one of the most iconic views of Brussels, especially around sunset.

2. GRAND PLACE

Brussels’ central marketplace – the Grand Place – is known as the world’s most beautiful square. UNESCO sees the Grand Place in Brussels as being “an outstanding example of the eclectic and highly successful blending of architectural and artistic styles that characterizes the culture and society of this region”. The square’s centerpiece is the gothic Town Hall, which was built in the 15th century in three stages; it was also in this century that the guilds established themselves in the houses around the Grand-Place. After being bombarded by Louis XIV’s troops in 1695, it was almost entirely rebuilt. The Grand Place is especially idyllic when you bring a visit during the Christmas period, or when a flower carpet is set up every two years in August.

1. HALLERBOS

The Hallerbos is a magnificent forest located in the municipality of Halle on the outskirts of Brussels. Every spring, thousands of tourists and locals flock to this forest to witness a breathtaking natural spectacle: the transformation of the Hallerbos from a sea of green into a sea of purple, thanks to millions of bluebells. There are different walking paths spread throughout the Hallerbos and visitors are urged not to stray from them, so that the flowers are protected. It’s very important to plan your visit since these bluebells only bloom once every year and only for a few weeks around mid-April (however, the precise flowering season varies with the weather). Besides the bluebells, the giant Sequoia trees also make a visit to this forest more than worth it.

• Website : Hallerbos

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8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

Dec 4, 2023 • 8 min read

Explore Brussels with this guide to the country's best places to visit © RossHelen / Getty Images

Travelers often overlook Belgium in favor of neighbors like France and the Netherlands, but it’s one of Europe’s best kept secrets. While its history means Belgium is linguistically and culturally diverse, it’s also small and compact, making it easy to hop between destinations. 

From perfect fries and chocolate to accessible nature breaks, picturesque medieval towns and vibrant art and fashion scenes, there's plenty to experience in Belgium. Here are the best places to visit.

1. Brussels

Best for shopping, museums and street food

Brussels , the capital of Belgium and seat of the EU and NATO, is one of Europe’s most multicultural cities. 

Art lovers can spend a whole day visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium – its six different museums include the must-visit Magritte Museum – along with the Boghossian Foundation at Villa Empain, and the modern-chic Center for Fine Arts, a multipurpose cultural venue commonly referred to as BOZAR .

The city is filled with architectural masterpieces such as the Grand Place , a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, and the illustrious Maison Cauchie , which can be toured on certain weekends with advance reservations.

You can find some of the world’s best and most affordable vintage shopping at the Brussels flea markets, most notably the daily open-air antique market in Place du Jeu-de-Balle, and the shops in the Sablon district.

Planning tip: For food and drink lovers, Brussels is the place to taste all of Belgium’s highlights. Délirium Café is a beloved, always-crowded bar with more than 2000 types of beer, including the country’s famed Trappist beers. Nearby, there are a handful of outdoor kiosks, known as frietkot (snack stands), where you can get your fix of frieten – fries served in a paper cone with your sauce of choice. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try Belgian chocolate at Pierre Marcolini and the fluffy Brussels-style waffles at Maison Dandoy .

2. Namur Province

Best for forts, nature and river views

Known as the “Land of Valleys”, the land-locked province of Namur in the Wallonia region is rich in rivers, cliffs, rolling farm hills and lush Ardennes greenery.

With postcard-perfect aesthetics and a mighty citadel perched atop limestone cliffs, Dinant is the ideal day-trip destination. Stroll around the town, cruise along the river, ride the cable car up to the fortress to take in the sweeping views and enjoy the scenery from a cafe while tasting regional specialties like the Couque de Dinant, a hard biscuit that comes in various shapes. Made of equal parts wheat flour and honey, it can be kept indefinitely, making a great souvenir to take back home.

For a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, head to Liernu, an even smaller town that’s the epitome of tranquility. Here you’ll find L’air du Temps , a fine-dining restaurant in a beautifully renovated farmhouse set on 5 hectares of private gardens. Most of the dishes served are sourced from the garden and often feature highlights of the local terroir, like Wallonia’s most sustainable food source, the Petits-Gris de Namur snails.

From there, you’re a stone’s throw from the city of Namur , capital of both the province and the region. This relaxed city is home to one of Europe’s largest citadels and also the adults-only Musée Félicien Rops , which exhibits the life and work of the scandalous 19th-century Belgian artist.

Best for wandering and romantic escapes 

A visit to Bruges feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Often called the Venice of the North, the city is incredibly charming with an intricate network of tree-lined canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. To add to the allure, many of the distinctively medieval buildings look like gingerbread houses, thanks to the red Gothic brick. All that and the fact that it’s the birthplace of Flemish Primitive painting led to the entire historic center of Bruges being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bruges is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Wander around the Old Town on foot, soaking up the atmosphere of the city squares, the Markt and the Burg ; hop on a canal boat tour and count all 54 bridges, then bike along the canals to the less crowded places. For the best bird’s-eye views, head to the Belfort , one of Bruges’ most recognizable landmarks, and climb the 366 steps to the top.

Catch your breath with a crisp Belgian beer, which can be found on every corner of the city. Noteworthy destinations are De Halve Maan , a brewery that also offers tours with tastings, and ’t Brugs Beertje , a legendary beerhouse with more than 300 Belgian brews on the menu.

Last but not least, no visit to Bruges is complete without a visit to the Groeningemuseum , a fine art museum with an impressive Flemish Primitive collection.

Best for fashion and design 

Home to the world-renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp , Belgium’s second city is also its coolest . Some of fashion’s top creatives, including Martin Margiela and Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia, have connections to Antwerp . A few have gone on to open shops here that are worth a visit, such as Dries Van Noten’s Het Modepaleis and Ann Demeulemeester’s sleek, black-and-bone-white flagship store .

There are more trendy shops in the Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat areas that make up the Fashion District, where you can also find the impressive fashion museum MoMu .

Beyond its stylish inhabitants, Antwerp has a visual edge driven by the contrasting architectural styles of contemporary projects and medieval buildings. Make your way down to the port to marvel at late architect Zaha Hadid’s Antwerp Port House and the MAS , home to exhibitions and collections revolving around the city.

5. The Belgian coast

Best for beaches 

The  Belgian coast stretches for 65km (40 miles), meaning you can pack multiple towns into a visit without feeling overwhelmed. Making things even easier is de Kusttram , a coastal tram that’s one of the longest in the world. It starts near the French border at De Panne and travels all the way to Knokke-Heist near the Dutch border, making 67 stops. The complete journey takes 2.5 hours and allows you to admire the coastline in its entirety, jumping off whenever you like without having to worry about parking.  

The two must-visit stops are De Haan and Oostduinkerke. De Haan is unlike other towns in that all buildings must be under five floors, which helps preserve its small-village charm. The low beachfront made up of Belle Epoque architecture and unspoiled grassy dunes is love at first sight for many. Still not convinced? The sweet treats at the retro Wafelhuis Annie or high tea at the vintage 't Stil Genot tearoom are sure to win you over. 

Oostduinkerke, or East Dunkirk, is a protected dune area and the only place in the world where shrimpers still use horse-dragged nets to collect tiny gray shrimp from the sand. This centuries-old tradition is practiced by just over a dozen highly trained locals and takes place at low tide during the warmer months, usually between April and October. In 2013, shrimp fishing on horseback in Oostduinkerke received UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity status. To learn more about this and the other local sea traditions, visit Navigo , a national museum housed in a 19th-century fisher’s cottage.

Best for a quirky weekend break

Located between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent encapsulates the best of Belgian cities: winding canals, medieval architecture, enviable museums and cobblestone alleyways filled with shops and restaurants. The difference is that it’s also home to the largest student population in Belgium – a young, beating heart in one of the country’s oldest urban areas. 

Take a closer look and you’ll find an unconventional creative community, flourishing music scene and so many plant-based menus that it’s often referred to as the vegetarian capital of Europe. 

Since 2009, Ghent has proudly held the title of UNESCO Creative City of Music. There’s a wide range of options for everyone’s tastes, from Belgium’s first silent disco at Abacho to performances at the never boring Vooruit Art Center and De Bijloke Muziekcentrum , and live music on the street and in bars and cafes like Kinky Star , a record-label-owned cafe famous for its Irish coffees and alternative concerts.

Best for thermal hot springs and well-being

Spas around the world take their name from this peaceful and breathtaking Ardennes town. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, Spa is known for its healing thermal springs and lightly sparkling mineral water. The most famous spa in Spa is Thermes de Spa , a modern and surprisingly affordable complex in the hills that’s backed by more than 150 years of knowledge and tradition. With a stunning natural landscape as your backdrop, resting and relaxing feels easy here.

Spa is also home to the world’s first casino , a permanent exhibition of Joan Miró lithographs , and the annual Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at the world-class Spa-Francorchamps track.

8. Hoge Kempen National Park

Best for nature

Hoge Kempen National Park is the only national park in Belgium. A former coal-mining site, it opened in 2006 following the cooperative conservation efforts of businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations.

The 57 sq km (22 sq mile) nature reserve is mostly heathland and pine forest, a lush landscape of evergreen trees – and vibrant purple-flowering shrubs in August and September – next to expansive artificial waterways. Today, it’s inhabited by more than 6000 species of flora and fauna, which is especially impressive considering the area’s industrial history. 

Planning tip:  There are five main gateways that serve as entrances to the park. For those without a car, the park can be accessed through the Kattevennen Gateway, first by taking a train to Genk station, followed by a De Lijn bus ride or a short walk. Once inside, there are different routes depending on whether you’re exploring by bicycle, mountain bike, horseback or on foot. Admission is always free, and the park is open all year long. Rangers offer guided experiences for all ages with advance registration.

This article was first published May 13, 2022 and updated Dec 4, 2023.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 30, 2022

Belgium may be small but it's packed full of sights.

UNESCO-acclaimed sites in the capital city of Brussels range from 14th-century guildhalls surrounding the elegant Grand Place to the early 20th-century Art Nouveau townhouses of Victor Horta.

Bruges is a major attraction for tourists, with its perfectly-preserved medieval streets rimming tranquil canals that lure flocks of travelers each year.

Although Bruges is by far Belgium's most popular place to visit, plenty of other towns in the country – particularly Ghent and Mechelen – retain excellent architectural examples from the Middle Ages as well.

This small nation has been right at the forefront of Europe's history, with many of the continent's most important events played out across its countryside.

It was in Belgium that Napoleon met his match at the battle of Waterloo, and during both the First and Second World Wars, Belgium found itself thrust into the frontline.

The World War I battlefields of Ypres are now important pilgrimage sites and today are among the country's top things to do.

Whether you're here for the ancient or modern history, Belgium provides a huge chunk of European heritage within a bite-sized piece of land.

Find out what to do while you're here with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Belgium.

1. Grand Place, Brussels

2. the canals of bruges, 3. the battlefields of flanders, 4. the belfry of bruges, 5. ghent's gravensteen and old town, 6. basilica of the holy blood, bruges, 7. meuse valley, 8. mechelen old town, 9. ghent's canals, 10. waterloo, 11. grand place (grote markt), antwerp, 12. semois valley, 13. mons old town, 14. st. peter's church, leuven, 15. castle of vêves, 16. raversyde atlantikwall, 17. cathedral of saint bavo, ghent, 18. antwerp's art museums, 19. horta museum and town houses.

La Grand Place (also known as De Grote Markt), is rimmed by finely preserved guildhalls and other grand buildings that showcase Belgium's vernacular architecture at its best.

One side is dominated by the ornate medieval town hall, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Grand Place was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding representation of late 17th-century architecture.

The square is busy with tourists and locals at all times of year, but especially in August of alternate years, when the center is filled with the 75- by 24-meter flower carpet, made up of more than 700,000 cut begonias.

Tip: You'll get the best full view of the beautiful designs from the balcony of the town hall.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Bruges began on the banks of the river Reie, and as it grew, so did a series of waterways connecting it to the Zwin estuary and the North Sea.

Today, the canals are beautiful reminders of Bruges history, and taking a sightseeing cruise along them is one of the most popular ways to explore the city.

Sightseeing boat trips, departing from five docks, dotted along the main canal in the central city, run half-hourly from March to November (and less frequently in the depths of winter) with trips winding down the length of the main canal.

This is one of the best opportunities to get photos of both Bruges' famous canal-side terraced house architecture and some of its finest buildings.

Tours run rain or shine, and umbrellas are provided by the tour boat operator when it's raining. No reservations are taken for the public sightseeing boat tours – you simply turn up at the dock and buy your ticket as you board.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bruges

For many visitors, Belgium's role on the front line of World War I, and in particular the Battlefields of Flanders around Ypres are the main reason for a journey here.

Not only important historically, the battlefields are a major pilgrimage site. The preserved trenches run for kilometers around the town of Ypres, while this area is also scattered with vast cemeteries for the thousands of soldiers who died here.

The Tyne Cot Cemetery (British) and Langemark's German War Cemetery are both solemn reminders of the brutal fighting that took place here during the Great War.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ypres

Among the most recognizable sights in Belgium, this beautiful belfry (officially known as Belfort met Beiaard) dominates the main square of Bruges.

Dating from the 13th century, this medieval era tower is attached to a building that once functioned as the main town market hall and has been wonderfully preserved, allowing visitors a real taste of the architectural might of the Middle Ages.

Climbing the 366 winding and narrow steps of the belfry to the observation deck, which sits at 83 meters high, is one of the most popular things to do for tourists in Belgium.

Once at the top, the views of church spires and steeple-roofs provide one of the country's best-known panoramas.

Official site: https://www.museabrugge.be

This hugely impressive fort was once the grand home of the counts of Flanders, who took their inspiration for castle-building from the bulky castles the Crusaders built in Syria.

Today, Gravensteen is one of Europe's best surviving examples of a moated fortress and has been incredibly well-preserved.

Its strong and impressively thick and high walls soar up from the waters of the river Lieve right in the middle of the old town of Ghent, rising above the rooftops of the surrounding streets.

Inside, the vast arched halls and chambers contain exhibits of medieval life, but it's the castle's architecture itself that is the real star of the show. Climb up the staircase to the roof for panoramic views across town before strolling through Ghent's charming stone-paved streets.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ghent

If you're only going to visit one church in Bruges make it this one. The Basilica of the Holy Blood is not only impressive for its blending of Romanesque and late Gothic architecture but also for the sacred relic kept inside.

The upper chapel is home to the famous vial for which the church takes its name; said to contain a drop of Jesus Christ's blood that was brought back to Belgium after the Second Crusade.

The interior of the church is a dazzling riot of gild work that was completed in the 16th century and provides ample reason for a visit even if you're not interested in holy relics.

The Meuse Valley , south of Brussels, is one of the best places to get a feel for Belgium's rural heartland.

The Meuse River offers Belgium's most scenic river trip opportunities, with dense forest countryside interspersed with hilltop craggy castle and fortress ruins, and little waterfront towns backed by limestone cliffs.

Head to either the towns of Namur or Dinant to plan your river trip. Both these small centers act as gateways to this region.

The Meuse Valley is also home to a host of hiking and cycling trails for travelers who want to add some activities into their holiday.

Its monuments may not be as famous as those in visitor favorite Bruges, but Mechelen's old town area is a great place to capture a sense of medieval Belgium, with plenty of gabled architecture and fine old buildings still in situ.

The central Grote Markt is bordered by some exceptionally fine buildings including the Town Hall and Lakenhall, while the impressive Sint-Rombouts Cathedral with its tall clock tower rises up just behind.

Away from the main square, a stroll through the center will also reveal plenty of typical guild house architecture that history fans are sure to want to see.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Antwerp

For easy sightseeing while in Ghent, simply take to the water.

Several companies offer sightseeing trips (both public and private options) upon Ghent's waterways, which wind through the city's medieval old town district, passing by the famed guildhall facades that line the canals, its medieval harbor, and some of Ghent's monasteries and churches.

Most canal cruise options are either 40 minutes or one hour. Departures are regular throughout the day, from approximately March through November, with fewer departures during winter.

As well as the sightseeing cruises, a couple of companies offer kayak rental, so you can explore the canals at your own speed.

Yes, history fans, it is that Waterloo; the place where Napoleon was defeated in the famous battle.

Today, the countryside where the battle once roared is a bucolic landscape of agricultural fields, but an artificial hill rises up from the surrounding flatlands with a memorial lion sculpture atop the summit to commemorate the day when Napoleon's army was finally stopped.

From the top, there are excellent views across the countryside. For anyone interested in the history of Belgium and of greater Europe, Waterloo remains an important stop on the itinerary.

Right in the core of Antwerp, sits the town's wonderful Grand Place (also known as the Grote Markt), which contains some of Belgium's finest examples of guild house architecture with their typical steeple-roofed shape.

The Town Hall here is a well-preserved example of 16th-century construction, and the interior is worth viewing for its collection of paintings that show Antwerp's history.

The guild houses that still rim the plaza are the major reason to visit the Grote Markt though.

Among the best facades are the Coopers' House and Grocers' House but all of them are well-preserved examples of this Belgian-style of architecture.

A nature-lover's delight, the Semois Valley provides a needed dose of lush countryside after all that historic rambling through Belgium's cities and towns.

Here, in the southern corner of the country, the winding Semois River cuts through farmland overlooked by gently undulating forest-clad hills. It's Belgium's prime hiking territory and also a good place for riverboat trips following the sinuous curves of the river.

Villages such as Membre, Laforet, and Alle offer good accommodation options, from mid-range guesthouses to camping within the region.

To see the valley at its prettiest come in spring, when the wildflowers bloom.

The old town of Mons is a delight to explore.

At the center is the Grand Place, a main square graced by a variety of typically ornate buildings that span a 400-year period, dating from between the 15th and 18th centuries, yet still retain a sense of symmetry.

In particular, the Toison d'Or House (1615) and the Chapel of St. George (1604) are architectural highpoints.

Away from the Grand Place, the old town hides many more sightseeing opportunities.

The UNESCO-listed bell tower on the hill above town and the Church of Sainte-Waudru with its interior crammed full of artistic and religious relics are two of the most important attractions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Mons (Bergen)

With its pointed arch windows and sheaf pillars, St. Peter's Church is one of Belgium's best preserved examples of Brabant Gothic style.

The church sits right in the heart of Leuven on the town's main square or Grote Markt.

As well as the church's splendid 15th-century architecture, inside, art-lovers will find an extra treat. The choir and the ambulatory are home to a museum dedicated to religious art, where some of the finest Flemish paintings illustrating biblical scenes are shown.

In particular, the Baroque carved pulpit and Dirk Bouts' painting of the Last Supper are worth a visit.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Leuven

This fairy-tale-style medieval castle, flanked by round towers and with interiors decorated in a sumptuous 18th-century style, is one of the Namur province's top tourist attractions .

The architecture of the present-day Castle of Vêves (Château de Vêves) dates back to the 15th century, as the previous 12th-century castle was destroyed by fire. This hilltop position, though, which easily guarded the main route between Dinant and Rochefort, has been the site of a fortified building since 670 CE.

The castle is renowned as Belgium's most well-preserved example of medieval castle architecture.

The castle is on the edge of the village of Celles and is easily accessed from both Dinant and Namur.

Official site: https://chateau-veves.be/en/

In Ostend, the historic site of Raversyde Atlantikwall is set amid a large nature park of woodland, grassland, and coastal dunes.

Inside is the Atlantikwall war bunker complex. It is one of the best preserved segments of the German defensive line, which ran along the coast of occupied Belgium during WWI and WWII.

The Atlantikwall complex here consists of the WWI Aachen Battery and the WWII Saltzwedel-neu Battery with a series of tunnels, passageways, and artillery positions set amid the coastal dunes.

Also within Raversyde Atlantikwall is the archaeological site of Anno 1465, which includes reconstructed houses from the medieval fishing village of Walraversijde and a museum about the history of the site.

Official site: www.raversyde.be

This majestic cathedral with its high Gothic choir and Romanesque crypt showcases the best of religious architecture in Belgium and is Ghent's most outstanding tourist attraction.

Although the soaring building, with its harmonious stained glass windows, is a highlight in itself, most people come here to see the famous artwork that graces the interior; specifically the Flemish masterpiece known as The Altar of Ghent.

Once you've viewed the painting though, don't miss the mammoth crypt under the cathedral, which contains important tombs and some beautiful wall paintings.

Once home to the acclaimed painter Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640), the port city of Antwerp is a major destination for art fans.

The palazzo-style house where Rubens lived and worked from 1610 onwards is now the Rubenshuis museum, which contains both a large collection of paintings by the artist and exhibits on his life (which also included several stints of serving as a diplomat) and his artistic style.

The house is a tourist attraction itself with its tranquil manicured garden; courtyard; and ornate Italianate facade.

As well as the permanent Rubens collection, the Rubenshuis also hosts a program of temporary exhibits.

The Antwerp Museum of Modern Art is also in the city and holds a world-class collection of contemporary art from both Belgian and international artists.

Victor Horta was the most influential architect and designer of the early 20th-century style known as Art Nouveau.

Several of his stunning buildings survive in Brussels and now constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begin at the Horta Museum, located in his former home and studio, which have been preserved as he designed them, with the original stained glass, mosaics, wood work, and decorations.

Horta was a pioneer in this artistic revolution that maximized and diffused natural light and incorporated themes from nature in its sinuous curves. Horta's aesthetic included attention to every detail of construction and decoration, from the design of the house to its furniture and even the decoration on hinges and doorknobs.

The two joined buildings of his house and studio show Art Nouveau at its height, and his four major town houses – Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, Hôtel van Eetvelde, and Maison & Atelier Horta – are also included in the UNESCO site.

Address: 23-25 rue Américaine, Saint-Gilles, Brussels

Official site: www.hortamuseum.be/en

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Brochures and maps

Google Maps doesn't know Brussels as well as we do! To guide you as you explore the region and its many treasures, we've put together a selection of maps and brochures that will help you discover some of our capital's best kept secrets.

These brochures and maps, which we produce ourselves, are available at our reception offices on the Grand-Place and Place Royale. Not sure which one to choose? Don't hesitate to ask our welcome desk teams, they will guide you through the offer according to your interests and wants. 

The Official Guide

Brussels' assets and the ten unmissable districts to visit during your stay! Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES & IT. Price: €5 (map included).

Brussels in your pocket

A summary of Brussels' must-see locations on a single map. Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES & IT. Price: €1.

Brussels, the comic strip capital

Brussels' 80 comic murals and places dedicated to the ninth art. Languages: EN, FR, NL, DE, ES, IT. Price: €7

The Promenade Verte

A magnificent, continuous, landscaped route that links natural and leisure spaces with places of heritage, cultural and historical interest. Languages: EN, FR, NL. Price: €5.

Brussels by Bike

8 rides along Brussels' node network for bicycle tourists. Languages: EN, FR, NL. Price: €2.

Brussels by designers

An original guide for design, style and aesthetics aficionados. Language: EN. Price: €8.50.

NECA booklet

Bi-monthly leaflet containing the programmes of more than 60 Brussels galleries and contemporary art centres. Language: EN. Price: free.

Are you interested in receiving brochures to display at your points of sale? Don't hesitate to contact us!

Map of Brussels’ public transport network

If you want to get around by public transport, you'll be using the STIB/MIVB network. On their website, you can find a dynamic map of all the tram, bus and metro lines, as well as all the schedules in real time. For even more convenience, download their mobile app.

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Tourism information desks.

At visit.brussels we have all the information you could ever need about Brussels and we'd be delighted to welcome you at one of our tourist information desks.

Low Emission Zone

Did you know that the entire Brussels-Capital Region is a low emission zone? This means that the most polluting vehicles are not allowed to drive here.

Activities to do when it rains

You’ve planned all sorts of outdoor activities and suddenly the heavens open? Don’t panic, we know exactly how you can still make the most of your day while keeping the rain at bay!