Things To Do
in Brussels
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, sits at the crossroads of European politics and rich culinary tradition. Its grand squares, gilded guild halls, and chocolate-tinted streets invite slow wandering and indulgence. The city blends French and Flemish influences with a vital international community, creating a cosmopolitan vibe in a compact, walkable core.
Expect pastry-sweet mornings, beer-filled evenings, and a maze of museums that celebrate both art and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Brussels by visiting the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the ornate guildhalls and the stunning Town Hall as you sip on a fresh cup of Belgian coffee from a nearby café. Don’t forget to take pictures of the breathtaking architecture as you stroll through this historic square.
After lunch, make your way to the Manneken Pis statue, a quirky symbol of Brussels that is sure to bring a smile to your face. Explore the narrow streets around the area, filled with charming shops offering Belgian chocolates and lace. As you wander, stop at the nearby Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert for some window shopping and indulge in a sweet treat.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center and enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine, perhaps a hearty carbonnade flamande or moules-frites. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back to the Grand Place to see it illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Cap off your evening with a local Belgian beer at a nearby tavern, soaking in the vibrant ambiance.
Start your day by visiting the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, where you can explore a vast collection of Flemish and Belgian masterpieces. Spend time admiring works by artists such as René Magritte and Pieter Bruegel the Elder. The ambiance of the museum is both inspiring and tranquil, perfect for immersing yourself in art.
Grab a light lunch at the museum café before heading to the Magritte Museum, dedicated entirely to the surrealist artist René Magritte. As you wander through the exhibits, delve into the fascinating world of surrealism and appreciate the unique perspectives of this iconic artist. Afterward, take a brief stroll through the nearby Mont des Arts, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city.
For dinner, head to the Sablon district, known for its upscale dining options and chocolate shops. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a bistro, followed by a visit to one of the famous chocolatiers to indulge in exquisite Belgian chocolates. As the night unfolds, enjoy a quiet walk through the charming streets, soaking in the artistic vibe of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $70-90 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, cohesive city center with world-class chocolate and beer culture
- Excellent public transport and compact size ideal for walking
- Can be pricey in tourist hotspots
- Crowds and pickpocket risk in busy areas and transport hubs
- "Bonjour" - Hello (French)
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station? (Dutch)
- "Hallo" - Hello (Dutch)
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please
Places to Visit in Brussels
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning central square framed by gilded guild halls and the Town Hall; best light is early morning or at dusk when the buildings glow.
Iconic futuristic structure set in a park; shoot its spheres from the outside and capture city reflections in the surrounding ponds.
Terraced gardens with sweeping city views and a backdrop of classic architecture; ideal for golden-hour photography.
Wide avenues, the triumphal arch, and museum wings—great for architecture and landscape shots.
Food in Brussels
Brussels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed mussels served with thick Belgian fries and a choice of broths or sauces.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised beef in beer with onions and thyme, typically served with potatoes or bread.
Creamy Belgian chicken or fish stew with vegetables and potatoes.
A crisp-edged delight topped with fruits, whipped cream, or chocolate—found at many street stalls and cafés.
Artisan chocolate from renowned chocolatiers; a must for tasting and gifts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant late-afternoon market with fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and prepared foods from diverse vendors.
Crispy Belgian fries with a range of sauces, a staple street-food experience across Brussels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour' (French) or 'Goedendag' (Dutch) and a handshake in business settings. Punctuality is valued for appointments.
French and Dutch are official languages; English is widely understood in tourist areas. Learning a few phrases in French or Dutch is appreciated.
Keep voices reasonable in public spaces; formality is common in service interactions; tipping and politeness are important social norms.
Safety
Tipping in Brussels
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, a tip of 5-10% for good service is common. Rounding up at cafes or bars is also appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in smaller establishments. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly prevalent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming parks, and plenty of outdoor cafes; rain is possible, so pack a light rain jacket.
Warm days with long daylight; outdoor events and terraces are in full swing; expect crowds in popular areas.
Cooler temps and colorful foliage; harvest markets and indoor venues become appealing as days shorten.
Chilly with occasional snow; Christmas markets light up the streets; indoor museums are good for shelter from the chill.
Brussels at Night
Hiking in Brussels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A magical forest famous for bluebell displays in spring; easy trails and scenic viewpoints just outside Brussels.
A vast beech forest surrounding the city with extensive network of trails suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Brussels by plane.
Located in Zaventem, about 12 km northeast of the city center; accessible by train (IC/Thalys), bus, or taxi.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport, farther from the city center; budget flights and a bus connection to Brussels.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Brussels hosts a diverse population with French-speaking and Dutch-speaking communities and a large international expat presence, contributing to a vibrant, global atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved sport with matches at major stadiums; local clubs and national team fixtures draw passionate crowds.
A popular activity given Brussels’ flat terrain and bike lanes; cycling is common for both commuting and recreation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brussels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Brussels offers numerous veggie options: salads, veggie croquettes, quiches, roasted vegetables, and pasta. Most restaurants can accommodate requests; look for dishes labeled veggie or ask for adaptations, and enjoy vegetarian Belgian staples like mushroom dishes and seasonal vegetables.