brussels tourist places

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 28, 2023

Brussels, capital of Belgium, principal seat of the Belgian Royal Family, and capital of the European Union, is a remarkably small, easygoing, and human-sized city for all its importance.

Unlike beautiful Bruges and Ghent, with their hordes of tourists, Brussels is Belgium's main economic and educational hub, which gives the city a more workaday feel than other towns.

Here, you get a proper feel for Belgian life, especially its fantastic restaurant and café culture.

Although Brussels may not have the star tourist attractions of other Belgian towns, the capital has more than enough things to do to keep visitors occupied for a couple of days, with a clutch of world-class museums and art galleries, as well as quirkier sightseeing highlights, such as the Atomium, and some wonderful remnants of old architecture in the old town quarter.

Once you've craned your neck at Gothic and Baroque splendor, don't forget to stock up on Brussels' famous chocolate.

Find out more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Brussels.

1. Stroll through Grand Place (Grote Markt)

2. visit mannekin pis, 3. saint-michel cathedral (sint-michiels kathedraal), 4. see belgium's famed comic heritage at the belgian comic strip center, 5. tour the place royale (koningsplein), 6. view the masterpieces inside the belgian royal museum of fine arts, 7. enter the atomium, 8. explore coudenberg palace archaeological site, 9. view mont des arts, 10. admire the stained glass of notre-dame du sablon, 11. visit the museums of parc du cinquantenaire, 12. stroll the parkland surrounding château royal, 13. enjoy the cupola view at basilique nationale du sacré coeur, 14. explore the abbaye de la cambre, 15. learn about chocolate at choco story brussels, 16. meunier museum, 17. shop inside royal gallery saint-hubert, 18. find foodie treats at place du châtelain market, where to stay in brussels for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in brussels, brussels, belgium - climate chart, more must-see places to visit near brussels.

Right in the heart of Brussels Old Town, the city's main plaza (known as Grand Place) is one of the best preserved in Europe and the city's top tourist attraction.

Much of the square's elegant character is due to the unique architecture of its elegant Gildehuizen (guild houses) with their magnificent gables, pilasters, and balustrades, ornately carved stonework, and rich gold decoration.

Grand Place's defining character is its uniformity of Baroque style, with some Flemish influences.

The harmony of its architecture is achieved by the short period of construction here, with most buildings raised between 1696 and 1700.

The history of the Grand Place dates back much earlier though. It was first established in the 11th century and evolved soon after, to become the political and economic center for the city.

The most recognizable building on the square is the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), built in 1402 with the intention of upstaging the Stadhuis in the rival city of Bruges.

Inside are several magnificent rooms. Among the most impressive are the Maximilian Chamber, hung with Brussels tapestries; the large Council Chamber with a superb ceiling by Victor Janssens and tapestries to his designs; the great banqueting hall and the Marriage Chamber, both beautifully paneled; and the Escalier d'Honneur, with murals illustrating the history of Brussels.

Address: Grand Place, Central Brussels

Along the Rue de l'Etuve is Brussels' best-known landmark, the Manneken Pis, usually besieged by a throng of tourists.

Although he can be traced back to at least 1388, nothing much is known about the origin of the figure of a little boy urinating, popularly referred to as "the oldest citizen of Brussels."

The Manneken is, however, surrounded by various legends. According to one, the fountain is a memorial to a courageous infant who averted a conflagration, according to another, it commemorates the son of a count who succumbed to a pressing urge while taking part in a procession.

The present statue was made in 1619 by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder and has been stolen on several occasions though always recovered. During major celebrations, events, and festivals in Brussels, the statue is famed for being dressed in costume.

Note that to see a collection of the range of costumes Mannekin Pis has been dressed in over the years, visit Garderobe Mannekin Pis just down the road. This small museum displays around 140 costumes from the fountain's very extensive wardrobe collection.

Address: Rue de l'Etuve, Central Brussels

Official site: https://www.mannekenpis.brussels/en/

Dedicated to St. Michael and St. Gudula (the patron saints of Brussels) this Gothic church was first founded in 1225 but only completed in the 15th century.

The facade is impressive, rising majestically above a broad flight of steps and crowned with twin 69-meter-high towers designed by Jan van Ruysbroeck.

The beautifully proportioned interior (108 meters by 50 meters) is lavishly furnished and is home to some outstanding stained glass windows created by Bernard van Orley.

Head to the transepts to see the finest examples depicting Charles V and Isabella of Portugal (south transept) and the Hungarian royal pair Louis II and Mary (north transept), and then into the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, to the left of the choir, where the window illustrates the story of the Miracle of the Host .

Address: Parvis Street Gudule, Central Brussels

Official site: www.cathedralisbruxellensis.be

This gorgeous 1906 building, designed by Victor Horta, is home to the wonderful Comic Strip Center, devoted to the history of cartoons and comic strips in the country that gave the world The Smurfs and Tintin .

A constantly rotating exhibition of 200 original comic strip drawings by Belgian and French comic artists is shown here.

In addition, the museum documents the rise in popularity of Belgian and French comic strips through a cleverly curated collection of original manuscripts, draft sketches, and imaginatively reconstructed sets including Lucky Luke's saloon and Tim, Struppi, and Captain Haddock's moon rocket.

Address: Maison Waucquez, 20 Rue des Sables, Central Brussels

Official site: https://www.cbbd.be/fr/accueil

A favorite attraction for photo-ops, the most important building on this square is the Royal Palace (Palais Royal), which is used by the Belgian royal family as an official residence.

The Belgian flag, flown from the roof, signals the sovereign's presence, and a ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place every day at about 2:30pm.

From late July to late August, free guided tours of the palace's interior, taking in the grand reception rooms and halls, are available.

Surrounding the palace are an ensemble of cultural buildings boasting Neoclassical facades.

The Palais des Académies, home of the Royal Academy of Sciences and once the residence of the Crown Prince of Orange, and the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Paleis voor Schone Kunste) on the west side of the plaza, designed and built in the 1920s by Victor Horta, are two of the finest examples.

Address: Place des Palais, Central Brussels

Belgium's Royal Museum of Fine Arts (1875-81) combines four separate art museums, which together are one of the largest and best art galleries in the world.

The museum grew out of a collection first set up in 1797 and was originally housed in the former palace of Charles of Lorraine. This was transferred to the newly established Musées Royaux in 1846.

The Musée Old Masters holds a collection of famous works by Flemish and Dutch Old Masters. Well-known works on display here include Gerard David's Adoration of the Magi , Rogier van der Weyden's The Mourning of Christ , Pietà by Petrus Christus, and Dirk Bouts' Judgement of the Emperor Otto .

The halls of the Musée Modern concentrate on artwork from the late 19th century to the present. It combines temporary exhibition halls with the basement galleries of the Musée Fin-de-Siècle, dedicated to artwork from the period between 1884 and 1914, when Brussels was one of Europe's cultural capitals.

Neighboring the main building is the Musée Magritte , dedicated to the work of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. This museum holds the largest Magritte collection in the world and is considered by many visitors to Brussels as the highlight of the city's many art tourist attractions.

Magritte (1898-1967) was one of the major artists of Belgium's surrealist art scene, and the museum displays its collection of his work chronologically, so visitors can view how his art changed across the years according to world events and his own personal and political influences.

Address: Rue du Musée 9, Central Brussels

Official site: www.fine-arts-museum.be

Along with Manneken Pis, the Atomium is Brussels' best-known landmark attraction, and although it's a bit of a journey by tram to get out here, the bizarre 102-meter-high steel and aluminum structure, designed by the architect André Waterkeyn for the 1958 Brussels World Exhibition, is the city's most surreal sight.

The building represents a molecule of iron magnified 165 million times.

Today, visitors can enter the building to explore its sci-fi-style interiors. The lower spheres are home to a permanent exhibition on the history of the structure. The upper sphere has incredible panoramas across the city.

Address: Eeuwfeestlaan 20, Boulevard du Centenaire

Official site: http://atomium.be/

One of Brussels' most unique things to do is explore this active archaeological site, which was rediscovered in the 1980s.

Coudenberg Palace has been excavated to reveal the cellars and tunnels of the former Palace of Brussels, as well as forgotten streets that had been buried beneath the city for centuries.

The foundations of the medieval palace have been cleared to allow tourists the opportunity to explore, and the museum has free audio guides that take you through the dig site.

There are also interactive programs that encourage children to become involved, like the "Underground Treasure Hunt," which includes a flashlight, treasure map, period costume pieces, and a puzzle for them to solve.

Address: Place des Palais 7, Brussels

Official site: https://coudenberg.brussels/en

The Mont des Arts was created between 1956 and 1958, occupying the elevated site between the Place Royale and the Place de l'Albertine.

The architecturally imposing complex of large buildings includes the Bibliothèque Albert I and the strikingly modern Palais de la Dynastie and Palais Congrès.

From the square between them is a fine view of the lower central city. The Bibliothèque Albert I was founded during the period of Burgundian rule and comprises more than three million volumes together with a valuable collection of manuscripts and several interesting museums.

Address: Boulevard de l' Empereur, Central Brussels

The 15th- to 16th-century church of Notre-Dame du Sablon (Onze Lieve Vrouw op de Zavel), generally considered one of the loveliest Late Gothic churches in Belgium, was built as a replacement for a small chapel first erected on the sandy expanse of the Sablon by the Crossbowmen's Guild in 1304.

The interior of the church is breathtaking, in particular because of its marvelous stained glass.

Also of interest is the burial chapel of the Thurn und Taxis family, partly the work of Luc Fayd'herbe.

Kept in the sacrarium is a figure of the Virgin, a copy, so legend has it, of a Madonna brought to the chapel in 1348 by a woman from Antwerp, Baet Soetens, to whom the Virgin had appeared.

Address: Rue de la Regence, Central Brussels

The Parc du Cinquantenaire was established in 1880 to commemorate the country's 50th anniversary.

Its centerpiece is the monumental Palais du Cinquantenaire, the two wings of which, linked in 1905 by a massive triumphal arch designed by the French architect Charles Girault, house two of Brussels' most interesting museums.

The Royal Art and History Museum is home to Belgium's national archaeology collections, with pieces drawn from throughout the world, as well as one of the most extensive tapestry collections in the world.

The Belgian Army Museum and Museum of Military History (Koninklijk Museum van het Leger en van de Militaire Geschiedenis) provides an overview of the development of military technology and of the major campaigns fought on Belgian soil.

Address: Avenue de la Renaissance, Central Brussels

Although the Château Royal, home of the Belgian Royal Family, is not itself open to the public, the park surrounding it at Laeken is.

There are delightful footpaths and a number of attractions worth seeing, such as the monument to Leopold I at the center of the circular flowerbed in front of the palace.

The Japanese Tower , in the northernmost corner of the park, was originally built for the Paris Exhibition of 1900.

The hothouses, erected in Leopold II's time, are the highlight of the gardens and are open to the public during April and May when many of the plants are in flower.

Address: Avenue de Madrid, Laeken, Brussels

The Koekelberg district is dominated by the massive Basilique Nationale du Sacré Coeur (Nationale Basiliek van het Heilig Hart), the fifth largest church in the world and brainchild of Leopold II, begun in 1905 to mark the country's 75th anniversary.

The building was only completed in 1970. Not surprisingly, it displays something of a mixture of styles, impressing nevertheless by its sheer size (141 meters by 107 meters).

Inside is an excellent collection of art and an ongoing exhibition on the history of the basilica.

The picture of Christ giving his blessing, which hangs above the altar, is by Georges Minne.

From the cupola is a breathtaking view of the city and across the countryside to Antwerp . Binoculars can be rented on-site.

Address: Parvis de la Basilique 1, Koekelberg, Brussels

Official site: http://www.basilicakoekelberg.be/documents/home.xml?lang=en

In 1200, Cistercian nuns founded an abbey here, which was later destroyed in the 16th century but then rebuilt.

Now, set in lovely French gardens, the abbey houses the National Geographical Institute and an art college.

The former 14th-century abbey church is a slender, elegant building with Baroque vaulting.

Inside is a painting by Albert Bouts ( The Mocking of Christ) and the shrine of St. Boniface, a 13th-century Bishop of Brussels. The windows of the cloister are decorated with the arms of more than 40 abbesses and nuns.

Address: Rue du Monastere, Saint Gilles, Brussels

Right in central Brussels, this specialist museum's exhibits both tell the history of chocolate from the cocoa tree's early use by the Mayans and Aztecs through to the modern day, and show how chocolate is produced from the cocoa bean.

The museum's chocolatiers also do live chocolate-making demonstrations of Belgium's famous praline chocolates, with free tastings, throughout the day.

This is a good stop if you've got small children in tow, and you need to break up an itinerary heavy on art museums and architecture.

The museum also hosts chocolate-making workshops, where the chocolatier will guide you in creating your own chocolate.

Address: 41 Rue de l'Etuve, Brussels

Official site: https://choco-story-brussels.be/en

The house and studio of Constantin Meunier (1831-1905) is now home to a museum dedicated to his work.

Meunier was a Belgian artist who, in his later paintings and sculptural works, concentrated on a social realist style that was hugely influential on artists throughout the early years of the 20th century. His sculptures of industrial workers are particularly well known.

The museum displays a selection of approximately 150 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and plaster models from its collection of 700, providing an excellent grounding and introduction to Meunier's work.

The building itself, which Meunier had built towards the end of his life, is a good example of Brussels' vernacular terraced housing.

Address: 59 Rue de l'Abbaye, 1050 Ixelles

Official site: https://www.fine-arts-museum.be/en/museums/musee-meunier-museum#

This elegant shopping arcade was designed by Belgian architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer and opened to the public in 1847.

Built in the popular, ornate Italianate style, with a glass-panel roof and arched shopfronts, the grand 213-meter-long arcade revolutionized retail architecture in Europe, replacing the narrow market alleys that had gone before and becoming the continent's first shopping center.

Its opening set off a trend for building similar arcades both elsewhere in central Brussels and in other cities across Europe.

Today, the Royal Gallery Saint-Hubert is prime territory for shoppers, especially if you want to pick up and take home some of Belgium's famed specialist chocolates, with plenty of chocolatiers in residence along the arcade's length.

The cafés within the arcade are also a good choice for an atmospheric break between sightseeing in central Brussels.

Address: 5 Galerie du Roi

Official site: https://www.grsh.be/en/home/

Head to Place du Châtelain on a Wednesday for the weekly food market, where you'll find everything from fruit and vegetables to pop-up stalls and cafés selling both local Belgian foods and cuisines from across the world.

For visitors looking for foodie souvenirs, there are plenty of traders selling local cheeses and cured meats, as well as fresh produce and baked goods.

Many people head here, though, for the market's casual dining options, with food stalls here offering everything from waffles and vegan burgers to Vietnamese and Middle Eastern dishes.

The market takes place every Wednesday from midday to 7pm. The surrounding streets are also full of cafés and restaurants, so the area is a lively dining hub throughout the week.

The best place to stay in Brussels for sightseeing is within walking distance of Grand Place (Grote Markt). This wide square in the heart of the Old Town is popular for its great shopping, dining, and well-preserved architecture and is a great place from which to explore attractions such as the Mannekin Pis fountain and Saint-Michel Cathedral.

Brussels, Bruges & Ghent : Brussels sits in the center of the country, making it the perfect home base for trips to some of Belgium's top tourist attractions , as well as sightseeing in neighboring countries. Near the coast to the northwest, in the Flanders region, the city of Bruges is a favorite tourist destination because of its medieval architecture and romantic canals. Between here and Brussels, the smaller city of Ghent has a similar ensemble of narrow alleys, beautiful buildings, and canal boats, without the mass of tourists.

North Belgium & The Netherlands : To the north of Brussels, the town of Antwerp gained its fame as a center of art and craftsmanship and is home to several noteworthy museums. The border with the Netherlands is not far from here, where you can explore the stunning churches of Breda , enjoy vibrant entertainment in Rotterdam , visit the countless museums of The Hague , or even spend some time enjoying the iconic city of Amsterdam .

Leuven, Liege & Germany: Back in Belgium, the small university town of Leuven sits east of Brussels on the way to Liège , the country's third largest city, which is celebrated for its industrial roots. Near the border with Germany, the cities of Cologne , Bonn , and Düsseldorf are easily within reach. West of Liège, Namur's central location at the junction of the Sambre and the Meuse Rivers made it an important trade city, and its citadel was a strategic military site, resulting in an interesting array of architectural choices.

Mons & France: Farther west and sitting near the border with France, the city of Mons (Bergen) is between Brussels and Paris , and is known for its impressive buildings and festivals. The town of Ypres sits closer to Belgium's coast, famous for being the site of major WWI battles, and just to the south in France, the city of Lille has many Flemish influences.

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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

• All Things To Do

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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BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts

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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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Reader interactions.

November 20, 2017 at 8:42 am

Just so you know, the Musical Instruments museum is not very tourist friendly if you don’t speak one of the three languages in Belgium. I lived in Belgium for 6 years and visited two years ago with a friend, and found that there was nothing written in English. Therefore, I had act like a translator for a friend. Also fun fact: there is also a peeing dog and a peeing girl statue in Brussels. If I can recommend one more thing to add to the list, it would be the Magritte Museum. Fantastic art museum of the famous surrealist painter.

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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 ;))

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

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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.

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#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.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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BRUSSELS: 20 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit

Brussels may not be among the first places that come to mind when the topic of traveling to Europe is brought up. Brussels get only 10 million visitors per year, which is still considerable but much lower than the 30 million tourist arrivals that tourism juggernauts like Paris and Rome record annually.

But Brussels is worth checking out, too! As the capital of Belgium, it is a well-developed and progressive metropolis that offers iconic landmarks, convenient transportation systems, and unforgettable experiences. And oh, not to mention the finger-lickin’ fries, mouth-waterin’ waffles, and mind-blowin’ beer!

If you’re planning a Euro tour and considering a stop in Brussels, here are some of the best things to do and places to visit here! In this post, we’re including links to Klook guided tours and tickets for your convenience.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

THINGS TO DO

1. brussels city tour.

Brussels boasts a multitude of storied structures and monuments, most of which are clad in Gothic or Art Deco architectural styles. Some of the notable landmarks are the Grand Place (city hall and guild houses), St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the King’s Castle, and the Congress Column.

Aside from the historical attractions, you can also visit the modern tourist attractions like the Atomium .

You can definitely pull a D-I-Y if you are more comfortable exploring on your own or if you are on a budget. But if you want to get more insights into each attraction, consider joining a guided tour. FREE Walking Tours usually start at the Grand Place and take visitors around the surrounding area to check out nearby landmarks. As is usually the case, although it is free, you’re expected to tip the guide depending on how much you enjoyed the tour.

If you’d rather join a smaller group and pay, Klook is offering a half-day city tour which takes about three hours. This is inclusive of a multilingual guide. The stops include the abovementioned notable attractions.

2. Belgian Chocolates Sampling

Your Brussels itinerary is not complete without trying the country’s world-famous chocolates! The term Belgian chocolate has become synonymous with the best choco treats in the world. You mention Belgium and more often than not, it will be the first one to pop in mind. (Well, at least in my mind. LOL.) Belgian chocolate is one of the major contributors to the country’s economy and deeply integrated into the culture. There are about 2,000 chocolatiers in the country.

Cacao, the raw ingredient in chocolate-making, is not locally produced but the Belgians managed to own the industry, rivaling the Swiss in producing the best chocolates in the world. The industry dates back to the 17th century but started to flourish as an industry in the 19th century.

Its global reputation started when Belgium invented its own version of praline in 1912. The Belgian version has soft filling wrapped in a chocolate shell, different from the pralines found in France and the United States. Belgian chocolates are said to have higher cocoa content than other producers.

If you want to learn more about the history and the best chocolate shops in the city, you can join a guided chocolate tasting walking tour. Aside from visiting shops and sampling, other guided tours include a chocolate-making workshop in the package. Here are two options from Klook.

3. Beer Tours

Raise your glass (or bottles), beer lovers! You’ve set foot in the land of UNESCO-inscribed Belgian beer culture. Judging from the number of beer festivals in the country, you will know that beer is huge here. In fact, the Belgians also incorporated beer in some of its dishes. The country has over 200 breweries — international and traditional — making it one of the top producers of beer in Europe.

The beer brewing history in the country can be traced back to the 12th century. The religious orders were the pioneers of beer brewing in Belgium and had a key role in the evolution of the brewing method through the years. One of the famous beer types in the country is the Trappist beer, produced by monks in, well, the Trappist monasteries.

The majority of beers in Belgium are sold in bottles and special ones are mostly served in their specific glassware.

If you want to know more about the other types of beers in Belgium, the beer-making methods, and the history of beer brewing in Belgium, you can join a guided beer tour. Your professional guide will lead you to the best beer places and even the hidden taverns and oldest pubs. Klook has two options inclusive of beer tastings and beer snacks samplings.

4. Fries Tasting

The British call ’em chips. Most of us call ’em French fries . But in this part of Europe, where some claim this universally-loved potato snack originated, it is known as frites . And boy do the Belgians love their frites!

It is said that frites started in the fishing settlements along the Meuse River in Belgium. The fisher folks were believed to substitute potatoes for fish during the winter season. According to a National Geographic feature, term “French” fries likely came about during World War I when the Belgians served the fries to the English-speaking troops who associated it with the French language spoken by the Belgian Army.

At its core, fries are very simple: potatoes cut into strips and deep-fried. There are different versions of fries across the globe, varying in thickness, shape, texture, seasoning, and dips. But the Belgians take pride in their double-frying method.

Currently, Brussels has a LOT of fries stalls; the most popular are Maison Antoine, Fritland, Frit Flagey, and Fritkot Bompa. Our team tried the last three. For us, hands down, the best was Fritkot Bompa. And the owner was very charming and warm. He even showed us his tattoo of fries and took our camera so he could film how he fried the potatoes. (He offered. We didn’t ask.) Maison Antoine was closed when we visited.

5. Belgian Waffles

The Belgian waffle has established itself as a staple snack in the country. It is not only popular in Belgium but also abroad, like the United States with its own version of the snack and is also served as a breakfast meal.

There are two famous types of waffles in Belgium: Brussels Waffle and Liege Waffle. The larger rectangular-shaped Brussels waffles use beaten eggs as leaveners and are sprinkled with powdered sugar, while the smaller but thicker round-shaped Liege waffles use yeast as the leavener and contain sugar grains. Some waffles in Belgium are considered street food and are eaten with hands.

6. Mussels in Brussels

Considered a poor man’s meal in the past because of the abundance and affordability, but now regarded as a prized ingredient, mussels (moules) have warmed the dining tables of Belgian households, especially in the winter season.

One of the famous mussel dishes in Belgium is the moules-frites , the country’s national dish. To prepare, the mussels are cooked (or steamed) with onions (or shallots), celery, and other fresh herbs in white wine sauce and butter, and finally served with fries.

Other mussel dishes to try are moules à la bière (with beer) and moules à la crème (with cream). If you are pressed for time but want to taste Belgian cuisine staples, you can have the moules-frites, beer, and waffle in one of the restaurants. We had our share at Chez Leon restaurant, just around the Grand Place, and we loved it!

PLACES TO VISIT

7. grand place.

The Grand Place (Grand Square), also called Grote Markt (Grand Market), is the main square of the city. Its history dates back to the 11th century as an open-air market. It used to be the venue for public executions. Later on, buildings mushroomed around the square, particularly the guild houses.

Strategically located along the commercial road, it became the hub for business and commerce, developing parallel to the rise of merchants and guilds in Brussels.

The Town Hall and the King’s House are the most prominent buildings. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; hence, this is one of the key attractions and the most visited in Brussels.

Nearest Train Station: Brussels Central Station Nearest Tram Station: Beurs Station (Tram 3, 4, 32) Nearest Bus Stop: Beurs Stop (Bus 33, 48, 95) Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

8. Palais Royal

Built on the site of the former Palace of the Dukes of Brabant , which was destroyed in the 18th century, Palais Royal’s original structure dates back to the first half of the 19th century. The structure we see today is mostly the product of King Leopold II’s modification projects at the turn of the 20th century.

Today, it serves as the official palace of the Belgian monarchs but not their official royal residence. This is the seat of power where most of the state duties are accomplished, the state’s guests are welcomed and entertained, royal wedding banquets are hosted, and royal interment are held. But it has been open to tourists during the summer season since 1965.

The Palais Royal faces Brussels Park. It features an archaeological site and museum (Coudenberg).

Nearest Metro Station: Trône/Troon Station Nearest Tram Station: Royale/Koning Station or Palais Station (Tram 92, 93) Nearest Bus Stop: Troon Stop (Bus N11, 27, 38, 54, 71, 95) Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday), CLOSED (Monday). The palace tours are available only in summer, usually from the third week of July up to the first week of September. Entrance Fee: FREE

Conceived in the 1950s, the Atomium has become one of the most iconic landmarks in Brussels and a national symbol of Belgium. Built for Expo 58 (1958 Brussels World Fair), the Atomium reflects the high regard given to science at the time of conception. It was eventually converted into a museum.

Designed by engineer André Waterkeyn, together with two architects André and Jean Polak, the contemporary functional structure towers over 100 meters, featuring spheres and tubes.

Out of the nine spheres, six can be accessed by the public. These spheres carry temporary and permanent exhibits, while the tubes enclose stairs, escalators, and an elevator (central tube). The lift shuttles tourists to the top sphere which houses a restaurant and an observation deck that presents a 360-degree view of the city.

Nearest Metro Station: Heizel Station Nearest Tram Station: Heizel Station (Tram 7, 19) Nearest Bus Stop: Heizel Stop (Bus 14, 83, N18, T7) Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Friday – Monday), CLOSED (Tuesday – Thursday) Entrance Fee: €16 (Adult), €14 (Senior), €8.50 (Children, Students, PWDs0, FREE (Children 115cm and below)

This is one of the main tourist attractions in the city, so expect long lines for the tickets. But if you don’t want to wait inline, you might want to check Klook’s skip-the-line ticket offer which includes admissions not only to the Atomium but also the nearby ADAM – Brussels Design Museum.

10. Notre Dame Du Sablon

The 15th-century Notre Dame Du Sablon is located in the historic center of Brussels, particularly in Sablon (Zavel) district, a short walk past Palais Royal. Its proximity to the nation’s official palace made it a favorite among the nobility and the affluent society.

Its exterior, Gothic in style, commands attention. The interior is equally stunning with stained-glass windows. Some interesting features are the Baroque pulpit, the two Baroque chapels, and the crypt.

Nearest Tram Station: Princesse Clementine Station (Tram 62, 93) Nearest Bus Stop: Kleine Zavel Stop (Bus 33, N06, N08, N09, N10) Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Monday – Friday), 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday) Entrance Fee: FREE

11. Notre-Dame de Laeken

Commissioned by King Leopold I, the Notre-Dame de Laeken was built in memory of his wife, Queen Louise-Marie. The construction started in the mid 19th century and finished in the early 20th century. Located near the official royal residence, Royal Castle of Laeken, the neo-Gothic church hosts the Royal Crypt where the tombs of the Belgian royal family are housed.

Aside from the crypt, the church also features three ornate spires. The tombs of some of the prominent figures in Belgium are found just a stone’s throw away from the church in the Laeken Cemetery.

Nearest Tram Station: Petit Sablon (Kleine ZavelStation) Station (Tram 92, 93) Opening Hours: January 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Tuesday – Saturday); February to November 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday); CLOSED (Mondays and December). The opening schedule for the Royal Crypt varies per day but on Sundays, it’s open from 2PM to 5PM. Entrance Fee: FREE

12. Manneken Pis

This statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain spews volumes not just about the city’s art but also sense of humor. It is one of the most visited and most photographed statues decorating the city.

There are several legends surrounding the statue but one of the most famous is the victory of the two-year-old Duke Godfrey III of Leuven and his men against their enemies with the help of his urine during the battle.

The original bronze statue dates back to the 17th-century and is displayed on the second level of the Brussels City Museum. The one flocked by tourists at the original site, a short walk from the Grand Place, is a replica. To manage your expectation, this statue has a height of about two feet. Yep, it’s pretty small, but that doesn’t stop tourists from flocking around it.

Don’t be surprised if you see the statue in a costume or uniform because it’s a normal occurrence. It actually has more or less 900 outfits.

The exact location is at the intersection of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne. Use Google Maps if you plan to walk from Grand Place.

Nearest Bus Stop: Manneken-Pis Stop (Bus 33) or Grand Place Stop (Bus 33, 48, 95) Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

13. Tintin Murals

Created by the Belgian cartoonist Georges Remi (Hergé), The Adventures of Tintin became one of the most loved comic series in Europe. It skyrocketed to fame in the 20th century and has been published in several languages, reaching hundreds of millions of readership and following.

The map of Brussels is dotted with a number of Tintin-themed murals. You can start your mural hunting not far from the Manneken Pis along Rue de l’Étuve, right after Choco-Story and before you reach Rue du Lombard. If you are coming from the Grand Place going to Manneken Pis, you will spot this mural a few meters before you reach the statue.

Mural Hunting Map: You may get/purchase the mural map from the tourist office located at Grand Place.

14. Autoworld

Autoworld is located on the southern portion of the 30-hectare Cinquantenaire Park in the European District of the city. The museum was launched in the 1980s, showcasing a collection of about 250 kinds of vehicles.

If you are a car enthusiast or just curious about the evolution and history of automobiles, especially those from the late 19th century up to the late 20th century, this will be worth your time. It has a huge collection of vintage models, as well as iconic racing cars and some modern cars!

Nearest Train Station: Merode Station Nearest Tram Station: Merode Station (Tram 81) Nearest Bus Stop: Gauls/Gaulois Stop (Bus 22, 27, 61, 80, N06) or Merode Stop (Bus 27, 61, 80, N06) Opening Hours: Weekdays 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (April – September), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (October – March); Weekends 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (all year round) Entrance Fee: €12 (Adults), €10 (Senior), €9 (Student, PWD), €5 (6-11 y/o), FREE (Below 6 y/o)

Book your ticket in advance via Klook!

15. Mini-Europe

The European Union has no official capital, but Brussels is where you’ll find the official seats of several of its bodies including the European Commission, Council of the European Union, European Council, and European Parliament. Hence, it is widely regarded as EU’s de facto capital.

So it’s just apt to find an attraction that represents something from all of Europe in Brussels. If you want to see the subcontinent’s iconic landmarks in a couple of hours, you can bet on Mini-Europe to deliver with fun and cuteness.

The park boasts about 350 miniature models of Europe’s famous landmarks and interactive installations recreating the important events and moments like the fall of the Berlin Wall, the rocket launching of Ariane V, and the Mt. Vesuvius eruption.

You can explore on your own or get the service of a guide to further explain the displays. The park is located near the Atomium.

Nearest Metro Station: Heizel Station Nearest Tram Station: Heizel Station (Tram 7, 19) Nearest Bus Stop: Heizel Stop (Bus 14, 83, N18, T7) Opening Hours: The schedule varies per month but it usually opens at 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM and closes at 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM. The park is closed from first week of January to second week of March. Again, the schedule might change without prior notice, so better check before you visit. Entrance Fee: €16.50 (Adult, Senior), €12 (Children, Students, PWDs0, FREE (Children 115cm and below)

You can book your ticket prior to your visit via Klook!

16. Choco-Story

Choco-Story is a small museum dedicated to chocolate-making. Discover how the chocolate came to Europe by tracing back its roots to the Mayans and Aztecs who cultivate cocoa trees. From there, you will learn how cocoa captured the heart and sweet tooth of the Europeans and how the beans are made into chocolates.

A master chocolatier will also demonstrate how to prepare pralines before you are treated to a delightful chocolate tasting! The museum is located near two popular attractions — the Manneken Pis and one of the Tintin Murals.

Nearest Bus Stop: Manneken-Pis Stop (Bus 33) or Grand Place Stop (Bus 33, 48, 95) Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday – Sunday). Last entry is at 5:00 PM. Entrance Fee: €9.50 (Adult); €8.50 (Senior, Students); €6.50 (6-11 y/o); FREE (5 y/o and below)

Currently, the museum only accepts online purchase of tickets. You can book yours from Klook. This is inclusive of admission, audio guide, and demonstrations, and chocolate tasting.

17. Le Botanique

Opened in 1984, Le Botanique was the former orangery of the National Botanic Garden of Belgium until its relocation to the outskirts of the city in 1958.

The botanical glasshouse remains and was transformed into a cultural complex, hosting art exhibitions, theater acts, and concerts. It has a restaurant that opens during lunch hours. The vast green space fronting the Le Botanique is now called the Botanical Garden of Brussels.

Nearest Metro Station: Botanique Station Nearest Tram Station: Botanique Station (Tram 92, 93) Nearest Bus Stop: Botanique Stop (Bus 61) Opening Hours: Front Desk 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Regular Days), 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Shows or Concerts); Exhibitions 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Wednesday – Sunday) Fees/Tickets: The ticket prices vary per show or exhibit.

18. Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

A Royal Decree was made in 1845 to make a museum that will keep and exhibit the works of deceased and living Belgian artists; thus, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium rose from the ground near the Royal Palace of Brussels (Palais Royal).

This complex nestles a group of six museums that carry a total of over 20,000 works of arts — paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Some of the masterpieces date back to as early as the 15th century, laying down the history of fine arts in Belgium. Contemporary arts are also included in the collection. Here are the six museums within the complex: Magritte Museum, Fin-de-Siècle Museum, Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, and Wiertz Museum.

Nearest Tram Station: Royale/Koning Station (Tram 92, 93) Nearest Bus Stop: Royale/Koning Stop (Bus 27, 33, 95, N11) Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday), 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Weekends), CLOSED (Mondays and some holidays) Fees/Tickets: The ticket prices vary per museum. It’s €10-15 for adults, €8-10 for seniors, €3-5 for students and PWDs, and FREE for children and youth under 19 years old. FREE admission for Meunier Museum and Wiertz Museum.

19. Parc Du Cinquantenaire & Triumphal Arch

Parc du Cinquantenaire (Park of the Fiftieth Anniversary), also called Jubilee Park, was commissioned by King Leopold II to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the nation’s independence.

The 19th-century pentagon-shaped park covers 30 hectares of land outside the city center in the European District. The extensive public park is decked with floral gardens and fountains. It is also home to three museums: Autoworld, Art & History Museum, and the Royal Military Museum. The centerpiece is the 20th-century Triumphal Arch topped with a bronze sculpture of four horses and a woman carrying the flag.

You can access the top of the arch for free from the National Military Museum and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.

Nearest Train Station: Merode Station Nearest Tram Station: Merode Station (Tram 81) Nearest Bus Stop: Gauls/Gaulois Stop (Bus 22, 27, 61, 80, N06) or Merode Stop (Bus 27, 61, 80, N06) Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

20. Palais de Justice

After its completion in 1883, Palais de Justice was recorded to be the biggest building in the world. Today, covering an area of almost three hectares, it is one of the largest and most monumental courthouses in Europe. It is one of the most notable landmarks in Brussels, being visible from almost anywhere in the area due to its high location in the Marollen district.

It was designed by the Belgian architect Joseph Poelaert, who also drew the blueprint for Notre-Dame de Laeken. The two floors and the basement are all open to the public. Some of the notable features are the massive neoclassical doors, the marble staircase, the main entry hall, and the dome.

Nearest Train Station: Louise Station Nearest Tram Station: Poelaert Station (Tram 92, 93) Nearest Bus Stop: Poelaert Stop (Bus 33) Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Weekdays), CLOSED (Weekends and holidays) Entrance Fee: FREE

Top Hotels & Apartments in Brussels

• B&B Be In Brussels. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
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Edited by Asta Alvarez

2021 • 3 • 30

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• 13 Best Places To Visit In Brussels In 2024 That Highlight The Charm Of The City

23 Mar 2023

Brussels, the unassuming, easy going capital city of Belgium and the administrative hub of European Union offers the quintessential Belgian experience without the touristy hype.

Grand facades, magnificent cathedrals, some amazing and quirky museums, the unique and imposing Atomium and melt in mouth Belgian chocolates – there are a lot of places to see in Brussels that await your presence. So if you’re on a holiday, then this fascinating small city with big surprises and a glorious history will delight you.

13 Best Places To Visit In Brussels

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Brussels city that you must go through before you leave. Take a look!

• Grand Place
• Atomium & Mini Europe
• Belgian Comic Strip Centre
• St. Michael And St. Gudula Cathedral
• Royal Museum Of Fine Arts
• Manneken Pis
• Jardin Du Petit Sablon
• Notre Dame Du Sablon
• Mont De Arts
• Villa Empain
• Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
• Magritte Museum

1. Grand Place

The grand city centre oozing with history, magnificent architecture and a splendid flower-carpet (twice a year) is one of the best places to visit in Brussels to feel the vibe of the city. Probably the largest and most beautiful square in Europe, flanked by the majestic Gildehuizen (guild houses) is one of the best places in Brussels to enjoy a drink, pick a tour or simply sit and feel the pulse of this vibrant city. The ornate historical buildings surrounding the cobblestoned square displaying intricate stone-work, stunning gold decoration, baroque gables and awe-inspiring architecture give the Grand Place its unmatched grandeur and elegance. You can stroll over to breathe in the fragrance of local flower market thrice a week and be awed by its surreal beauty when it is lit up at night. Ideal for: Architecture, History, People-watching

Suggested Read: In Pictures: 35 Most Beautiful Cities In Europe Will Make You Want To Trip There

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2. Atomium & Mini Europe

The impressive and iconic steel-aluminium wonder is to Brussels what Eiffel Tower is to Paris. It’s amazing to look up at this model of an iron atom magnified to 165 times its size and a thrilling experience to be whisked to the top of this 100m high gleaming architectural marvel. You can combine the trip and ticket with a visit to Mini Europe which is equally riveting and exciting for kids as well as adults. With detailed models of the best European cities, interactive sections and working models this miniature wonder is a popular Brussels attraction.

Ideal For: Family time, Photography

Suggested Read: 10 Places For Shopping In Brussels That Will Give You A Shopper’s High

3. Belgian Comic Strip Centre

Let the child within gaze with delight and wonder at those familiar comic strip characters that have made you laugh and filled your heart with joy. In this magnificent 19th century art deco building designed by the master architect Victor Horta, you can walk through a 3D Smurf village, visit Captain Haddock’s moon rocket and peep through Lucky Luke’s salon. With dedicated sections for Tintin, Asterix, Smurfs and many other Belgian and French comic strips, you can delve deeper into the magical world of your favourite characters. The detailed history of comic strips and the journey to their present day graphic novel form is fascinating.

Timings: 10AM to 6PM every day Entry fee: 10 Euros/adult; 3.5 Euros/child. Concessional fee for senior citizens, students and group tickets

4. Town Hall

The most spectacular building around the Grand Place, the Town Hall has several grand rooms displaying its magnificence. With its spire towering above all other buildings, the Town Hall is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. While the impressive facade adorned with numerous sculptures is a sight to behold, the opulent interiors will leave you spellbound. Rich tapestries and stunning ceiling of the Council Chamber, beautifully panelled walls, amazing artwork and murals will take your breath away. The seat if the Mayor of Brussels, the Town Hall also hosts many free concerts and looks stunningly beautiful when lit up at night. Ideal for: Architecture, History

Suggested Read: These 12 Hostels In Brussels Will Add Comfort To Your Experience

5. St. Michael And St. Gudula Cathedral

Dedicated to the patron saints of Brussels, this majestic poetry in stone is as beautiful on the inside as it is spectacular on the outside. The magnificent preaching stand, impressive archways, pretty sculptures and the gorgeously detailed stained glass windows are a treat to the eyes. A short walk from the main station, this fantastic Gothic-style cathedral is a must-visit on your Brussels sightseeing itinerary. It is worth spending an hour here reading up on its history, architecture and spiritual significance and stealing some tranquil moments.

Ideal for: Tranquillity, Photography, Architecture

6. Royal Museum Of Fine Arts

Even though not as famous as the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay, Belgium’s Royal Museum of Fine Arts will surprise you with its amazing collection of jaw-dropping art and is one of the finest places to visit in Brussels for art aficionados. Curated into three different and interesting sections, it is one of Europe’s largest art galleries featuring the works of masters like Rubens, Van Dyke, Rembrandt, Magritte and Brueghel.

Timings: 10AM to 5PM (Mon-Fri); 10Am to 6PM (Sat-Sun) Entry fee: 13 Euros for all three sections. Free entry on first Wednesday of every month.

7. Manneken Pis

Undoubtedly one of the most popular Brussels tourist attractions, this quirky bronze sculpture of a small boy urinating in the fountain must not be missed while in Brussels. A copy of the original one (which is now in the Brussels Museum), this landmark attraction is an embodiment of Belgian humour and rebellious spirit. Manneken Pis (literally meaning the small man) has a wardrobe of more than 900 costumes which he is dressed up in couple of times a year on special occasions. Ideal for: Photography, History

Suggested Read: 15 Most Romantic Cities In The World

8. Jardin Du Petit Sablon

This serene oasis in the heart of the city is a great place to take a break from the hectic Brussels sightseeing and breath in the refreshing air. The charming landscaped garden with an impressive Egmont and Hornes Fountain is studded with 48 bronze sculptures depicting historical occupations. It’s the perfect spot for a truly European experience while soaking in some history on the side.

Ideal for: Relaxation, History

9. Notre Dame Du Sablon

As you stroll through the city ticking off the best places to visit in Brussels, don’t miss out on this strikingly beautiful cathedral. Displaying an elegant amalgamation of the Gothic and Renaissance styles of architecture, the church interiors are adorned with exceptional stained glass windows and an ornately carved pulpit and organ. After visiting the church you can stroll to the beautiful park nearby, sip a coffee at the local cafes and marvel at this majestic structure.

Ideal for: Architecture, Photography

Suggested Read: These 10 Best Craft-Beer Bars In Brussels Will Leave You Wanting For More

10. Mont De Arts

A lovely little hill dotted with as many as 10 museums and an atmosphere that can’t be beaten, Mont De Arts is surely one of the top places to visit in Brussels for experiencing the best that this charming city has to offer. You simply sit here and enjoy the street performances, walk up to some of the interesting (Magritte Museum for art lovers, the unique Musical Instruments Museum, amongst others) or marvel at the panoramic city views. Sunset is a great time for some picture postcard-worthy shots of the city, and then witnessing the glittering spectacle as night sets in. Ideal for: Photography, Museums, Relaxation

11. Villa Empain

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Built by the famous Swiss architect, Michel Polak in 1930-1934, Villa Empain is a place that you ought to add to your list of places to visit in Brussels. It was a private house before but after its restoration in 2009-2011, it was opened for public. Villa Empain is a marvelous piece of artwork which is popular throughout Belgium due to its stunning interiors.

Ideal For: Art Lovers

Suggested Read: 11 Churches In Brussels That Will Make Your Experience Worth Remembering

12. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is Europe’s first covered shopping arcade and if you are a shopaholic you should totally visit this great spot in Brussels. Designed by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer in the years of 1846 and 1847 and since then it attracts a lot of tourists every year. You must visit all the three galleries which are called The King’s Gallery, the Queen’s Gallery and the Prince’s Gallery on your shopping spree to make the most out of it.

Ideal For: Shopping buffs

13. Magritte Museum

Opened in 2009 to the public, Magritte Museum is one of the most frequented places to visit in Brussels. All the travelers who love art and history must pay a visit to this museum which is dedicated to the Belgian artist, René Magritte. The museum has 200 original sculptures, Magritte paintings, and drawings. You can have a look at the famous artworks like Return, Scheherazade and The Empire of Lights once you step in this museum.

Further Read: 10 Most Popular Europe Trips To Plan Ultimate Escape

There is no end to the Brussels attractions and experiences to savour in this wonderful city. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, sip some uniquely Belgian beer and let the city work its magic. And now you must plan your European vacay with TravelTriangle and enjoy a personalized itinerary and trip.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Brussels

Where should I go near Brussels?

There are so many places you can visit near Brussels like: 1. Gaasbeek Castle 2. Flemish city of Ghent 3. Villers Abbey 4. Lion’s Mound 5. Hallerbos 6. Antwerp 7. Sonian Forest

What is Brussels famous for?

The cuisine and gastronomy are the two things Brussels is famous for. You will find a number of historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are listed under UNESCO. Try waffles and fries when in Brussels. There is a huge variety of beer that you will find in Brussels.

Is Brussels a good tourist destination?

Yes, Brussels is absolutely amazing destination where there is so much to explore and see. From chocolate to beer, Brussels is famous for quite a things. If you like exploring medieval cities with cobbled streets, then you are going to love this place. Besides, you will find a lot of lively cafes and restaurants in Brussels.

How many days do you need in Brussels?

If you want to explore Brussels at its best, then you should spend 3-4 days otherwise a couple of days are fine if you can’t squeeze in much time.

Do they speak English in Brussels?

Most people speak French in Brussels. The english-speaking native speakers are very less but it is safe to assume that they understand Engish language.

What to pack when visiting Brussels?

Here is what you should pack for visiting Brussels: 1. Down jacket 2. Raincoat 3. Sweatshirt 4. Comfortable shoes 5. Refillable water bottle

Can I drink the tap water in Brussels?

Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Brussels, unlike in other countries. It tastes pleasant.

What to visit in Brussels in 2 days?

Some of the most popular places to visit in Brussels in 2 days are: 1. Manneken Pis 2. Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke 3. Grand Place 4. Atomium 5. Victor Horta's major townhouses 6. Villa Empain 7. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert 8. Notre Dame du Sablon 9. Mini Europe 10. Musical Instrument Museum

How many days in Brussels is enough?

If you are planning to visit Brussels solo or with your family and friends, two days is often enough to enjoy sightseeing tours, culinary retreats, and more. If you want to enjoy slow travel and travel around the entire length of this city, we would recommend a 7-day trip to soak in the culture of this place.

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11 things to know before visiting Brussels

May 18, 2023 • 6 min read

All the tips and tricks you need for Brussels from a local in the know © Somyot Techapuwapat / Getty Images

It's been my honor and pleasure to call Brussels home for many years – the Belgian capital is a vibrant European hub that welcomes millions of visitors every year with open arms. 

However, there are some insider tips about Belgian culture, and Brussels in particular, that will make your trip go a little more smoothly. Before you throw yourself gleefully into the chocolate and beer, let me share some of my favorite local advice for new visitors to Brussels.

1. There are two Brussels and yes, it's confusing

Brussels is a city but also a region. There’s the city of Brussels proper and then 18 other towns (such as Ixelles, Anderlecht, Schaerbeek, Saint-Gilles or Molenbeek) that form the Brussels Capital Region, a component of the Belgium federal state. Each has its own mayor and regulations. Locals will use the term “Brussels” indiscriminately when talking about either the city or the region – if you're at all confused, just ask them to clarify.

2. Double check your airport

Two airports bear the name of Brussels: Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi. Brussels Airport is the older and larger one. Located in Zaventem, it’s about 20 minutes away from the city center by train. Brussels South is in Charleroi, about an hour's drive from Brussels, and it’s Belgium’s major hub for low-cost carriers.

It's pretty common for travelers to mix up the two airports, taking a train or a shuttle to the wrong one and missing their flight. When in doubt, check your booking: the IATA code for Brussels Airport is BRU and CRL is for Brussels South.

3. Ditch the car

Though the advent of remote working improved things a little, traffic is still a nightmare in Brussels – the city is in the top 15 of the most congested urban areas in Europe . Locals frequently bemoan the lack of parking spaces and the cost of garages (€22 for 1 day).

Brussels is also a Low Emission Zone, which means older vehicles are not allowed in. Getting a pass to enter the LEZ is mandatory and free. If you have to bring your vehicle, you can check if you can use it and register it on the LEZ Brussels Website .

However, the city center is very walkable and the public transport system is efficient. If you have to travel by car, a good compromise is to leave your car at a Park and Ride location . Parking is free and they are all next to a metro station – you’ll be at the Grand Place in no time!

4. Use the metro, trams and buses to explore the city

The STIB/MIVB runs almost all of the public transport in Brussels and it’s easy to get across the city, although the further from the center you go, the more difficult it gets. You’ll find ticket vending machines in the metro and main tram or bus stations. If you only need a single-ride ticket, contactless payment is available. Look for the gray validator as you enter a station or a vehicle, tap your card or your smartphone, and you’re on your way.

Most of the tourist attractions (except the Atomium ) are within a small area and can be explored on foot, so you won't really need a day pass unless you decide to visit different neighborhoods on the same day.

5. The train is a great option for getting around

One of Brussels’ best-hidden secrets is using the overground train to get around the city. With 35 train stations, it can often be faster than taking the tram or bus, especially to remote corners. However, you'll need to purchase a ticket before you board. Interestingly, the STIB/MIVB route planner doesn't account for this alternative very well, so it's best to rely on Google Maps instead.

6. Don’t plan a museum trip or fancy dinner on a Monday

Monday is a day off for many professionals (hairdressers, bakers...) and that's also the case for museums and restaurants (the latter may also be closed on Tuesdays). A few will be open but if your travel plans are focused on culture and/or gastronomy, it is better to be in Brussels during the second half of the week to have more options.

7. Everything is bilingual in Brussels

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is officially bilingual. Everything, from road signs to advertisements, train announcements, street names and information boards is in French and Dutch, Belgium’s two main national languages (German is the third). It can be confusing if you’re not used to it. For instance, the station of Bruxelles-Midi (in French) is Brussel-Zuid (in Dutch).

My tip is: pick a language you’re more comfortable with and stick to it. Just bear in mind the two denominations for the most important places such as train stations – I’ve seen too many visitors missing their stops because of that!

On the plus side, Brussels is a multicultural city, and you should get by easily speaking English during your daily activities. It's unlikely anyone will get offended if you use it rather than one of the national languages.

8. Keep some change for the toilets

“ Madame / Monsieur Pipi ” as they are known locally, are a fixture of fast-food restaurants, stations, clubs, malls and even cinemas. They are the toilet attendants and hold the essential job of cleaning before and after you use the facilities.

You’ll find them chatting with customers, reading, knitting and doing crosswords in between rounds of cleaning. Their service is not paid for by the establishment, so you'll need to pay a small fee to use the bathroom. About 0.50 to €1 is customary, so keep some loose change in your wallet as they almost exclusively take cash. A smile and a thank you are also appreciated.

9. Always carry an umbrella or a raincoat

You’ve checked the forecast and it seems like the weather’s going to be fine during your stay in Brussels...don’t trust it. The weather here is particularly fickle and if Belgium is known for anything (apart from beer, chocolate and fries), it's rain, from an annoying little drizzle to a heavy downpour.

No Belgian would be caught dead without a retractable umbrella or raincoat in their bag “just in case”. Follow their lead and feel suitably smug when that unexpected shower begins to fall.

10. Kiss, handshake or hug?

Ah, that awkward moment! You’re in a foreign country and introductions are made. What do you do? In Brussels, where French-speaking culture is dominant, you’ll see many people kissing each other hello on the cheek, even if they’re not acquainted. COVID-19 changed that a bit but la bise is making a comeback.

Flemish culture, on the other hand, is more reserved and they'll simply shake hands or just say “Hi” to acknowledge your presence. Go with a handshake if you're at all unsure.

11. Babies, children and dogs are often welcome in bars

This is baffling to many foreigners. In the afternoon, especially at the weekend, it’s not uncommon to see whole families at a bar, with the adults enjoying their beers while the baby is asleep in a stroller and the older kids are sipping on their soft drinks and playing games.

Cafés, pubs and bars are places to socialize and for Belgians, children should not be excluded from the experience, especially since smoking is not allowed indoors. Dogs are also part of the family and are welcome too – they’ll probably get a bowl of water. 

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Brussels is rich in history, architecture, gastronomy, culture and so much more! Warm, welcoming and quirky, Brussels is a bustling city where there’s always something going on. Visit us to discover hidden gems and meet people with hearts as big as this vibrant city.

Spring in Brussels

Spring is finally here! And it's the perfect time to take full advantage of Brussels. Just like nature, the city is in full swing: the terraces are filling up, the cultural calendar is bursting with all kinds of events and the capital is overflowing with joie de vivre. Strolls through the city's districts, aperitifs on rooftops, visits to museums or shopping sprees... Follow our advice for an unforgettable stay!

Surrealist Brussels

In 1924, André Breton published his "Manifesto of Surrealism". 100 years on, the Belgian capital is paying tribute to this deliberately subversive, dreamlike and abundant movement

Must-see attractions

You’ve just arrived in Brussels and you don't know where to start? Don't worry, we've put together a list of must-see attractions for you.

Upcoming events

International jazz day.

Various places in Brussels

Oxalys Festival

1/05, 20:00 CD presentation 'The American Album' C. Ives, Largo G. C. Menotti, Cantilena e Scherzo J. Adams, Shaker Loops A. Copland, Appalachian Spring 3/05/ 20:00 A.Beach, Theme and Variations S.Coleridge-Taylor, Clarinet Quintet in A E. Walckiers , Quintette no. 1 in A, Op. 49 5/05.15.00 J. Novák, Balletti a 9 E. Wellesz, Octet, Op. 67 L. Spohr, Nonet in F, Op. 31

Shirly Laub , Frédéric d’Ursel, Pieter Jansen, & Sarah Bayens, violin, Elisabeth Smalt & Marc Sabbah , viola, Justus Grimm & Pierre Fontenelle , cello, Koenraad Hofman double bass, Toon Fret flute, Piet Van Bockstal, hobo, Nathalie Lefèvre clarinet, Pieter Nuytten & Marceau Lefèvre bassoon, Bart Cypers horn, Annie Lavoisier, harp, Caridad Galindo Rueda, piano

La Tricoterie - LInk Factory

Saint-Gilles

Irisfestival

The Iris Festival takes place on 4 and 5 May. That’s when we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Brussels-Capital Region in style. What’s to expect? A weekend packed with a variety of free activities. The Iris Tipik Electro Night, street art, entertainment villages, activities for children, guided tours... don’t let this event pass you by!

Brussels devotes an entire weekend to the celebration of its anniversary. The festivities will take place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th May 2024. On Saturday, the focus of the Iris Festival will be on the communes with numerous guided tours. The day concludes with the Iris Tipik Electro Night, transforming the impressive Place des Palais/Paleizenplein into a mega dance floor. Once again, the collaboration between the Brussels-Capital Region, visit.brussels, and RTBF via its Tipik media has resulted in an impressive lineup featuring Ofenbach, one of the most popular French electro duo’s worldwide, social media stars TRINIX and local heroes such as Alex Germys, Emjie, and Raql! The following day, the Brussels Park becomes the epicentre of the Iris Festival. In the park, you can enjoy a plethora of fun activities with the whole family throughout the day. Visitors can also marvel at the talents of street artists.

Fête de l'Iris

Queen Elisabeth Competiton

In 2024, the Queen Elisabeth Competition will be dedicated to the violin for the twentieth time. The best young violinists from the four corners of the world will compete in Brussels, from 6 May to 12 June. Tickets and subscriptions will be on sale as from February 2024.

Flagey & Bozar

Kunstenfestivaldesarts

Kunstenfestivaldesarts is an international performing arts festival dedicated to contemporary theatre, dance, performance and visual arts. Every year, it takes place in Brussels during three weeks in May.

Contemporary: the festival supports both established and up-and-coming artists with the creation of bold artistic work rooted in today’s world. International: artists from all over the world are invited to confront us with diverse artistic practices and perspectives. Every year, the programme includes around thirty artistic projects that can be experienced and understood in a whole range of ways. It is intended for anyone who is keen to make discoveries. Nomadic: the festival takes place in around thirty venues in Brussels – theatres, cultural centres, museums and public spaces – but also venues that are not well known by audiences from Brussels or abroad. Of Brussels: the festival is organised in dialogue with several French and Dutch-speaking cultural partners and local associations in Brussels. It aims to reflect the diversity of Brussels. Since it started back in 1994, it has encouraged mobility between audiences, cultures and neighbourhoods. Kunstenfestivaldesarts stimulates debate and dialogue. Every year, it hosts a temporary Free School dedicated to sharing knowledge and artistic practices. Through its Communities projects, the festival also runs initiatives that allow students, associations, performing arts professionals or interested members of the public to connect during and beyond the festival.

Jam'in Jette Outdoor - Free Festival

Parc de la Jeunesse

JEM International Puppet Festival

7th International Puppet Festival. 39 performances of 19 different shows over 4 weekends, 10 Premières by international companies in Belgium, 1 international exhibition "The Vessel", 1 UNIMA International Round Table, and a Focus on South Korea (last weekend 8 and 9 June) for all the family, from 4-5 years upwards.

Who better than the Peruchet to invite and show puppets in all their eclectic and bewildering forms, to keep us wondering and to entertain all audiences. Launched in 2013, the JEM (Journées Européennes de la Marion-nette) festival at the Théâtre Royal du PERUCHET/MUSEE INTERNATIONAL DE LA MARIONNETTE has grown with the success it has met each time with spectators and audiences curious about puppetry arts for the widest possible audience and creative quality. This festival gives Brussels an international and European profile. The festival promotes the art of puppetry, its tradition and its modernity, by inviting European theatres (but not only) of international renown. Over the years, the festival has established itself as Belgium's most international puppet festival. Recognised with the European EFFE label for the 6th edition of the festival in 2022, this new edition is as promising as ever in inviting international artists and audiences from different European and international communities to discover puppets from different cultures, as open forms that play on the diversity of the puppetry arts. 10 Belgian premieres out of the 19 shows programmed for 39 performances, workshops, a lot of non-verbal shows, 1 exhibition on American artist Matt Jackson and 1 international round table over 4 weekends. The puppeteers will come from 4 corners of the world: South Korea, DRC Congo, the United States, but also Ireland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Italy, Germany, Greece, France, the Netherlands and Belgium. The 7th edition offers a diversity of genres and shows that showcase the richness of this multifaceted art form. Paper puppets, glove puppets, shadows, rods, strings, hand puppets and objects will take us on improbable journeys, each more improbable than the last, journeys into puppet worlds. Shows, meetings, exhibitions, happenings and workshops will be on the menu for this 7th edition of the festival, which highlights the need for exchange between artists and cultures in Brussels, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world.

Mayan Iungman, Matt Jackson, Katanari, Thomas Baker, Hubert Mahela, Irene Vecchia, Bufos Puppet Theatre, Marie Denham, Divadlo B, Theater Sangsahwa, Daeyeol Lee et FFWANG Art Culture Bakery, Clair de Lune Théâtre, Mehrzad Kateb, Cie La Synecdoque, Cie Sixfauxnez, les Royales Marionnettes, Cie FITHE d'Eupen, le Théâtre du Nombr'île

Théâtre Royal du Peruchet

Brussels Pride - In the capital of europe

On May 18, 2024, Brussels Pride celebrates inclusion with concerts, performances, and activist speeches. The Pride March departs at 2:00 p.m. from Mont des Arts. Theme: "Safe Everyday Everywhere". A Pride Village with associations and activities, Pride Safer Zones, and the Rainbow Village liven up the city center. Join us for a day of advocacy and celebration of diversity!

On 18 May 2024, from 12 noon, join us for Brussels Pride 2024 - In the capital of Europe. This annual celebration, an ode to inclusion, will be held on two main stages featuring concerts, artistic performances and activist speeches. The Pride March will start at 2pm from the Mont des Arts. Join us for a memorable day of celebrating diversity in all its forms, which strives to promote a more inclusive future for all. This year's theme is Safe Everyday Everywhere, a vision which aims to create a society where everyone can feel free and safe every day, everywhere. In addition to the concerts and stage performances, a Pride Village will be waiting for the public with a host of associations and activities. Alongside this, Pride Safer Zones will be set up around the stages to provide safe spaces to take a break or be looked after by health services at any time of the day. The Rainbow Village and its LGBTQIA+ establishments, located in the Saint-Jacques district in the heart of the capital, will also be livening up the streets of the city centre throughout the weekend. Discover the programme and take part in this day of protest and celebration! Express yourself and celebrate diversity with us at Brussels Pride 2024 - In the capital of Europe !

Mont des Arts

“The secret for this so long going on party, is the happy mix of styles and ages” The first ever LA DEMENCE party took place almost 30 years ago in 1989 ! What began as a weekly gay party on Sundays in small cities around Belgium has now become one of Europe’s biggest and most renowned parties. The concept really came into its own and became a roar-away success when the parties settled down in the capital, Brussels, in 1992, and from then on took place in a regular monthly slot at Fuse club: the day before a bank holiday or on a Friday. Besides that,each anniversary at Halloween a full party weekend with several parties is organised, including a huge Main Party at Palais 12. What makes LA DEMENCE stand out from the other gay parties is the happy mix of different styles and ages partying together: leather boys, bears, fashion victims, muscle queens, drags, young and old – in total in excess of 2000 gays having one hell of a party together. This happy mix creates a family feeling which is the secret of this so long going on party! As Brussels is strategically placed as a city, LA DEMENCE attracts visitors from France, The Netherlands and Germany as well as hot sexy Italian, Swiss, Spanish, British and American boys. The venue at Fuse club is huge – containing three different rooms which has the advantage of offering an eclectic range of music delivered by eight international DJs progressing from techno to house, with even a smattering of pop in the smaller room. Great music and a great crowd also makes LA DEMENCE very sensual, so there are a few darker areas well worth exploring for those looking for a more than just a dance.

Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend

Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend, the free city festival that attracts some 300,000 music lovers to Belgium’s capital every year, will take place again this year. This year Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend is once again able to treat the municipalities of the Brussels Capital Region to FREE open-air concerts.

Jazz will rule over Brussels for the sixth time at the end of May During the last weekend of May, Brussels will once again be dominated by jazz. From 24 to 26 May, three iconic squares will host a varied outdoor programme. In parallel, no fewer than 30 indoor concerts will take place and brass bands from all over Europe will parade through the city centre. And all of this for free. ///////////////////////////////////////////// PROGRAM WILL COME SOON !!!! STAY TUNED.

Festival CubaLandz - Contemporary Cuban Arts

Festival CubaLandz - Contemporary Cuban Artscelebrates its 7th anniversary!

The 7th edition of the CubaLandz festival, which highlights contemporary Cuban art, celebrates the movement négritude and its impact on modern Cuban culture. Inspired by the work of Cuban poet and essayist Nicolás Guillén, this theme emphasises the importance of integrating Afro-Cubans into a diverse society while fighting against imperialism and neocolonialism. This year, the festival takes place over three days in two Brussels venues: Bozar (25/05) and BRASS (01/06 & 02/06). The programme includes concerts, a conference, video mapping, a performance, theatre for young audiences and a dance workshop. During the three days, you can also tune in to What is Hip! Radio and experience the festival live, wherever you are! Co-production Camarote, Bozar and Brass. With the support of Région Bruxelles-Capitale and COCOF

Bozar & BRASS

20 km de Bruxelles

A l'entrée du musée du Cinquantenaire

europalia art2gether

Europalia presents art2gether, a vibrant celebration of the core principles outlined by Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union – including pluralism, non-discrimination, solidarity and equality. At the intersection of art, culture and the values that unite us - now more than ever - europalia has curated a series of free performances, film screenings and talks across various locations, set to the ever-dynamic backdrop of the European capital. On Wednesday 29, Thursday 30 and Friday 31 May 2024, art2gether will toast to the ideals upheld by both europalia and Article 2, echoing their shared commitment to a better future. Featuring P.A.R.T.S., Laure Prouvost, Mohamed Toukabri, Benjamin Vandewalle and many more. Discover the complete programme soon. In the framework of EU2024BE, the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Place de la Bourse

Zinneke Parade

Zinneke asbl

Brussels Renaissance Festival

The Brussels Renaissance Festival offers a series of events that showcase European heritage and history during the Renaissance.

The festival highlights the important role of Brussels during this period. Charles V, the most powerful sovereign of the 16th century, had Brussels as his main residence. This city, where he received his first inheritance in 1515, has since become the capital of 500 million Europeans.

TB² Fes­ti­val

For the third time, the Brigittines and the Théâtre Les Tanneurs are joining forces to close the season together with combined evening performances at both arts centres (a first show at 7pm at The Brigittines followed by a second one at 9pm at Les Tanneurs (and vice versa).

Les Brigittines

Fashion Moves

Things are moving this summer at MAD Brussels. With Fashion Moves, the Centre for Fashion and Design presents a fascinating exhibition on the multifaceted relationship between fashion and dance.

What does movement do to a piece of clothing? How does the fashion designer adapt to the demands of dance costume? To what extent do fashion and dance inspire each other? Dance and movement have always influenced fashion. For the exhibition Fashion Moves, MAD Brussels explores the interaction between the two worlds. From breathtaking creations dedicated to the stage to the latest trends emerging through social media, especially the influence of ballet and techno, or creations inspired by clubs and nightlife. Numerous creations and trends are reviewed in four different chapters. The exhibition features the work of many renowned names such as Raf Simons, Glenn Martens, Marine Serre and Walter Van Beirendonck as well as emerging talents like Igor Dieryck, Marie Vandewiele, Stefan Kartchev, Jordy Arthur and many more.

MAD Brussels

Midsummer Mozartiade

The Midsummer Mozartiade festival invites you to its 8th edition, from 17 to 23 June, right in the heart of Brussels. Our main stage performances will again take place at the Théâtre Royal des Galeries, located in the elegant and historic Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, just a stone's throw from the Grand-Place.

A festival that gets a theatre singing (again)! Following the resounding success of Die Zauberflöte last summer, we are proud to present the opera Mitridate, re di Ponto at the Théâtre des Galeries this summer. This is a rare production of Mozart's very first opera seria (written at the age of 14!), a veritable triumph when it premiered in 1770. This masterpiece sings a powerful story of geopolitical confrontation (in a region known today as Crimea), fratricidal conflict and thwarted love (what could be more topical?). For all those who love vocal fireworks, this is no doubt the very modern-day production in which the roles of the rival brothers (originally written for castrati) will both be sung by men (in this case a sopranist and a countertenor). And echoing the ‘intimate and grandiose’ Requiem performed last summer by the prestigious phalanges of the CAV&MA de Namur, Missa Brevis will take the stage of the Théâtre des Galeries this summer. This ground-breaking concert, conceived by the excellent emerging conductor Gabriel Hollander, promises to delight all fans of sacred music (out of the box), chamber music (of a spiritual kind) or contemporary music (in its choral form). Featured on the programme are liturgical miniatures by Mozart, Haydn… and Belgian composer Fabian Fiorini. A festival that shows you round the centre of Brussels! Besides these exciting main stage productions, you will find a variety of free events at landmark venues throughout the city centre. In the Galerie du Roi, right outside the theatre, talented young performers (a wind quintet, a voice-cello duo and a string quartet) will serenade passers-by to kick off our festival week in style. A short stroll to Place des Martyrs will bring you to Maison CFC, at number 14, and two fascinating lectures on the journeys to Italy of aspiring composers and the evolution of opera seria across the ages. Turn left into Rue aux Choux, and straight ahead you will see the beautiful Mozart-era church Notre-Dame du Finistère. This peaceful haven in the bustling Rue Neuve will be the stage for a fabulous all-Handel concert, featuring two outstanding sopranos and a four-piece Baroque band. A festival that takes opera on the road! In July, we will once again be touring our opera production to the Théâtre Royal in Mons as part of the Festival au Carré, and then to the Grand-Manège in Namur as part of the Festival musical de Namur, courtesy of the ORCW and the CAV&MA, major partners of our Brussels festival. Our shared mission is to make opera (originally a popular form of entertainment) more accessible for a broader, more diverse audience. So make a date with Mozart this June! We look forward to seeing you there.

Stefan Sbonnik (tenor); Gianna Cañete Gallo (soprano); Dennis Orellana (sopranist); Pieter De Praetere (countertenor); Sonia Sheridan Jacquelin (mezzo-soprano); Mathis Van Cleynenbreugel (tenor); Eric Gobin (director); Thibaut Lenaerts (conductor); Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie (ensemble); Gabriel Hollander (conductor); Clara Inglese (soprano); Julie Bailly (mezzo-soprano);

Théâtre Royal des Galeries

Brussels International Film Festival - BRIFF

The 7th edition of the Brussels International Film Festival (BRIFF), will take place from June 25th to July 3rd 2024 in the heart of Brussels! This year again, the BRIFF promises you a concentrate of strong images and emotions on the big screen. Brussels will be brimming with a bouquet of emotions as the BRIFF takes place at Cinéma UGC, Cinéma Galeries and Palace as well as evening open-air screenings, thus offering an urban and cinematographic experience to the festival goers. Keep your eyes open, more details are coming soon...

Brussels Urban Sessions

THE BIGGEST ACTION SPORTS FESTIVAL IN BELGIUM

Josaphat Park

Festival Musiq3

Rise brings together emerging and established artists from the Belgian and international classical, jazz and electro scenes.

Rise brings together emerging and established artists from the Belgian and international classical, jazz and electro scenes. Eighteen concerts for young and old, encounters, an evening of podcasts about music and human nature, a showcase for the Propulse Classique competition, new works by sound and plant sculptor Bob Verschueren and dj sets on the square! Experience classical music in a different way and get ready for the summer! And for the first time this year, the festival will open on Thursday with an exceptional evening. Head to Flagey and the surrounding area for four days of musical and artistic excellence at the Festival Musiq3.

With, among others : Vox Luminis, Thomas Dunford, the Brussels Philharmonic, Antoine Pierre, Marc-André Hamelin, Adèle Molle, Elise Caluwaerts, Jos van Immerseel, Glass Marcano... and many more!

Théâtre Marni & Flagey

Couleur Café

The Couleur Café festival, located in the verdant Osseghem park next to the Atomium, is a vibrant melting-pot of musical genres, spanning from hip-hop, reggae, and afro to RnB, funk, and dub. For 34 years, the festival has welcome thousands of beautiful people, featuring dozens of both established and emerging artists, as well as remarkable DJs.

The greenest urban festival in the country is getting ready for its 33rd edition. On the 28th, 29th and 30th of June 2024, the breathtaking Osseghem Park by the Atomium will welcome a diverse mix of established and emerging hip-hop, soul, funk, reggae, dub, dance and afro artists, as well as dozens of DJ’s on 6 stages, countless experiences and culinary highlights, an enchanting decoration and thousands of beautiful people who perfectly represent the diversity of Belgium. Couleur Café is more than a festival, it is a journey around the globe that’ll keep you dreaming for the rest of the year. And it has been for 34 years. Discover more on couleurcafe.be.

Osseghem Park

Brosella festival

Bruxellons!

Festival Bruxellons! Au Château du Karreveld

Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Walden Festival 2024

Walden Festival is an initiative from the founders of Klarafestival. The concept? Enjoying music in all its diversity on various stages in and around Brussels’ Leopold Park, the green heart of the European Quarter. Get ready for an adventurous summer festival for young and old alike!

The garden of the Museum of Natural Sciences, adjacent to Leopold Park, is the starting point for an exploration of classical, contemporary, non-Western music and jazz. It’s all about alternative concert formats and breaking down barriers between different genres. A string quartet, a jazz solo, Eastern music and mysterious soundscapes … encounter them all at Walden Festival. Some concerts take place in the open air while others are held in stunning architectural jewels. Put together your own schedule and wander between concerts. Combine the festival with a visit to the Museum of Natural Sciences or enjoy our tasteful festival catering. Watch, listen, taste, feel... let all of your senses be stimulated!

Leopold Park

Buy your tickets at ticketing.brussels

Discover our selection of concerts, plays, shows, museums, festivals & exhibitions in brussels., where to eat, the best places to eat chips in brussels.

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Street food in Brussels: a whole world of flavours at your fingertips

Are you a fan street food? Brussels is packed with places where you can taste and savour authentic street cuisine.

Brussels’ breweries

Over the last ten years, Brussels has seen a renewed interest in artisanal production and craft beers.

Sustainable restaurants in Brussels

Looking for a sustainable restaurant? Seventy-six establishments in Brussels hold the “Good Food Resto” label.

Let’s get practical

Arriving in brussels.

Plane, train, bus or car? All roads lead to Brussels.

Getting around

Get around by tram, bus, metro, train, bike... Transport is easy to use in Brussels!

Tourist information offices

In Brussels already and looking for a bit of inspiration? Pop in at one of our offices!

Low Emission Zone

Brussels is striving for cleaner air and knows how to get it done.

Brussels from all angles #visitbrussels

Brussels Card

The key to easily discover Brussels!

Free access to 49 Brussels museums

Discounts at attractions, shops, restaurants, bars and guided tours

Free information guide, city map and museum map

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Europe in Brussels

The European Quarter

European Parliament

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