Fans of art, architecture, and politics will find loads to experience in Brussels. The Belgian capital is home to the European Parliament, which gives it a strong Eurocrat influence. But the city offers so much more, including beautiful plazas, quirky museums, and the even quirkier Manneken Pis. However, some of the best things to do in Brussels will involve your tastebuds. Not only is the Belgian beer scene legendary, but so is its wonderfully indulgent chocolate scene. Many of the city’s finest chocolatiers are right on the gorgeous, 17th century Grand-Place. And one of the best things to do in Brussels is indulging in frites, which come with an array of dipping sauces.
The weather here is famously rainy and cool, especially during the cold months. The summers tend to get less rainfall and a good amount of sunshine, particularly in July and August. If you want easygoing weather and fewer crowds, visit in September or early October. It’s still relatively pleasant out, and a little less damp than winter or spring.
The best way to get around is by public transit. An extensive network of metros, trams, buses, and local trains connects the city and its surrounding suburbs. There’s also a boat service, the Waterbus, which travels between Vilvoorde Centrum and Place Sainctelette. If you stick to sightseeing, the local hop-on hop-off bus is a convenient way to explore the best of the city.
If you like your beer served up with plenty of atmosphere, head over to Au Bon Vieux Temps. This tiny but beautiful pub, set at the back of a narrow alley, allegedly opened its doors back in 1695. Its richly decorated interior does much to confirm this claim. Decor highlights include an elegantly carved wooden bar, beamed ceilings, and tons of stained glass.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +32 | Language(s) French | Attractions 49 | Tours 415 | Reviews 18,719 |
The city of Brussels is known for its food and drink, particularly beer, chocolate, fries, and waffles. It’s also home to a large number of international organizations, including NATO and the European Commission. And don’t miss its varied architecture, especially around the Grand-Place: a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
...MoreBrussels has many famous attractions, from stately old buildings to quirky modern landmarks and everything in between. Highlights include the Grand-Place and the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. There’s also the Parc du Cinquantenaire and the Atomium. But don’t stop your sightseeing there.
...MoreBrussels gets a lot of rain, so many of the more popular things to do in Brussels involve museums. Popular choices include the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, as well as the Musical Instrument Museum. Then there’s the Magritte Museum and the Brussels City Museum.
...MoreYes. Brussels is compact enough that you can easily do a lot in just one day. Join a tour to view landmarks like the Town Hall, the 19th century Parc du Cinquantenaire, and its Triumphal Arch. Then, go for a dose of culture at one of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (or the Belgian Comic Strip Center).
...MoreYes. Many people in Brussels speak fluent English. That fluency is due to the presence of large international organizations, notably the EU and NATO. Confusingly, Brussels is in the Flemish part of Belgium. But French is more commonly used than the Flemish Dutch language that dominates in the surrounding region.
...MoreBrussels has all sorts of special features, from beautiful old buildings to an abundance of chocolatiers. You'll also find plenty of alley bars—tiny pubs tucked away in old alleys. While beer and liquor are the main draw at most of these establishments, some also serve up fantastic food.
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