Get to Cinquantenaire Park in the morning and you’ll find the place quieter and more geared towards runners, walkers, and sightseers. It’s the best place to head to if you want a central spot to base yourself to see the Triumphal Arch and the Royal Museum of Art and History, the Belgian Army Museum and Museum of Military History, and Autoworld. Each museum is in the park, with many historical statues, public artworks, and even waterfalls.
The Cinquantenaire District is also home to the European Union, Europe’s parliament, and the European Commission. Walk around the neighborhood to find hidden Art Nouveau gems or a trendy coffee spot or restaurant. The Cinquantenaire District is also known for its boutiques and bistros—it’s not all politics and museums. Stroll down the grand 19th-century streets, admire the park’s landscaping, and marvel at a different side of busy, historical Brussels.