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20+ Brussels Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit

Last Updated: April 15, 2021

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Looking to make the most of your time in Brussels, the beautiful capital of Belgium? Here are some must-know travel tips before your visit.

I have to admit, I screwed up big time on my first visit to Brussels.

The first time I visited this sugary Waffleland, I was no more than a beginner backpacker in Europe midway through her first long term trip, with an ego and confidence inflated after several “easy” weeks of travel in Paris and London.

Unsurprisingly then, when I met my match in Brussels, mistakes were made, expectations ruined and illusions shattered…

… I definitely did not do the city properly, I’ll tell you that.

Save these Brussels travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

And so for a long time, I thought I hated Brussels. Like truly, hated it! In fact, between you and me, this blog post was initially published in 2014, and in it I spewed a looot of vitriol about why Brussels was not the city for me.

Then something changed. I had to visit Brussels for work one day. Then I visited again. And again. I mean, call it exposure therapy, but whatever it was, it worked! I am now a believer, and see how poorly I had done Brussels justice on that first visit so many years ago.

Brussels really is an amazing city if you know how to visit it properly.

So, in the spirit of helpful advice, I’d like to share my best Brussels travel tips to ensure you enjoy the city, rather than feel duped by it like I did all those years ago.

Hint: beer and waffles are maybe involved.

Accumulated over many visits to the Belgian capital, here are some of my best tips for when you visit Brussels.

Brussels Travel Planning Tips

We’ll start with planning-related tricks for Brussels, from finding cheap flights to booking the right accommodation.

Learn the tricks to getting cheap flights TO Brussels

If you’re visiting Brussels from overseas and haven’t booked your flights yet, be sure to check out my guide on how to get the cheapest flights to Europe . I promise it’ll save you hundreds of dollars on your flight!

If you’re coming from within Europe, you might also find my guide to the cheapest ways to travel around Europe helpful.

Know the difference between Brussels’ two airports

When flying into Brussels, you’ll either be flying into Brussels Airport (BRU) or Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL). 

Those travelling on a budget should definitely look into flights for Charleroi, as this is the one that services budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air , which means you’ll likely find cheaper fares here vs.Brussels Airport.

That said, Charleroi is located an hour from Brussels city center, with no train station of its own, so the only way to get from Charleroi to Brussels is a shuttle bus or private transfer. This costs a bit more than the train from BRU to the center, so factor that into your costs!

NOTE: BRU does have some low cost airlines too like easyJet.

Book your hotel somewhere central

Most of Brussels’ most touristy sights are within walking distance of each other, so if you want to maximize your time in the city, it’s important to book somewhere in the heart of the action.

I have a full list of recommended hotels in Brussels, but generally speaking these are some good areas to book in:

• Around Grand Place: Expensive but as central as it gets. For a splurge, this top rated hotel is right on the corner of Grand Place.
• Sablon: Close to the sights but in a quieter, lovely area. Here is the top rated hotel in this neighbourhood.
• European Quarter: Very safe but kind of boring and quiet. Here is the top rated hotel in this neighbourhood.

For a budget-friendly stay close to the center, I can also recommend this Motel One. The rooms are small, but the property is very safe and comfortable.

Know which areas to avoid in Brussels when booking accommodation

Brussels is full of many lovely neighbourhoods and areas, but for tourists booking a dream trip, there are certain areas that should be avoided as well.

One of the primary reasons I hated Brussels on my first visit was because of where I stayed, a hostel near Place de Brouckère. Walking home (even before dark) made my friend and I feel uneasy because the entire 10 minute stretch home would be filled with cat-callers and strange men staring us down.

So, choose your base wisely!

While I am by no means an expert on safety in Brussels, I can speak from personal experience on places around the city where I had negative experiences and wouldn’t stay/visit again.

I never like to generalize about a city, so of course, be sure to supplement these personal stories with your own research, but I definitely think you would be better off booking accommodation away from the following neighbourhoods:

Around Place de Brouckère :

Again, this is where I stayed on my first visit and I wouldn’t do it again. The entire stretch from the Bourse de Bruxelles to the Gare du Nord was littered with casinos and weird catcallers lurking around.

As two young female backpackers, we definitely didn’t feel safe. That said, during Christmas market season, this area was a lot livelier and felt like a completely different place.

Molenbeek :

This is a part of Brussels where I almost got pickpocketed at the Comte de Flandre (Graaf von Vlaand) station.

I was on my way to a museum (which was unfortunately closed) and so I headed back to the station, where some teenagers surrounded me and tried to take a wallet straight out of my purse!

Unfortunately, this neighbourhood does have a reputation for being popular with pickpockets and petty crime, so I would avoid it if possible, especially given that there aren’t many touristy things to do in this neighbourhood anyway

When it comes to neighbourhoods to avoid in Brussels, often people bring up the areas around Brussels’ train stations, and Cureghem (located around the Brussels Midi station) is perhaps the one with the worst reputation.

I did stay here during a short stopover one trip and I wouldn’t do it again. I felt incredibly uneasy during the walk from the station to my AirBNB (which was really short) and I’m quite certain there was a guy following me for most of the way.

Anyways, I definitely wouldn’t book a hotel by here, certainly if you’re travelling alone!

One or two days in Brussels is enough

Of course, you can easily spend more time in Brussels if you try to make a larger dent in its hefty museum scene, but in terms of hitting all the main sights of the city, one or two days is actually sufficient for Brussels itself.

If you have more time to spare, I’d recommend squeezing nearby cities like Bruges , Antwerp or Ghent in your itinerary, all of which are amazing and well worth a visit.

Actually wait – let’s make that a tip of its own.

Make time for other Belgian cities in your itinerary

I have to confess, while I’ve slowly learned to love Brussels over the years, it still isn’t my favourite place in Belgium.

I honestly think that Belgium is one of the most underrated countries in Europe, especially considering most people pass through Brussels and that’s it.

If you can, definitely take some time and explore other parts of Belgium besides Brussels. Since the country is so small, you could easily do them as day trips!

I’ve been to Bruges , Ghent, Antwerp and Leuven – they’re all amazing.

Brussels Transportation Tips

Next up: tips for public transport in Brussels, and getting around Belgium in general.

You probably don’t need unnecessary public transportation passes

Learn from my mistakes and don’t get talked into a transit pass you don’t need! Brussels is very walkable and odds are you might not use it much.

Upon my first ever arrival to Brussels, I encountered a (fairly odd) ticket stall attendant who moved at a sloth-like pace and was strangely obsessed with China. He pushed my friend and I into getting a 48 hour transit pass , which we barely used at all.

So, before committing to any costly passes for Brussels, be sure to do the math first and see if you’d even need them. Or, look into a sightseeing pass like the Brussels Card which comes with a public transport pass too, as well as entry to most Brussels museums.

Know there are three train stations in Brussels

Straightforward advice, but you should know that Brussels has three main train stations. Double check the name of the station when boarding/disembarking the train to ensure you’re going to the right one.

There’s Brussels Midi, Brussels Centraal and Brussels Nord.

I know it sounds dumb, but one time I truly did show up at Brussels Centraal 5 minutes before my train, only to realize it was a train that left from Midi. Needless to say, I did  not  make that train.

Under 26? Buy a Go Pass 1 for Day Trips

The Belgian train system is blessed with a number of enticing discounts that will let you see the country for a low price.

For example, those under the age of 26 can enjoy a ridiculously cheap Go Pass 1 , which is 6.40 for anywhere in the country. This is way cheaper than paying full-price!

Memorize the French and Dutch names of Belgian train stations

As you probably know, Belgium is a tiny country that nonetheless has three official languages : Flemish (like Dutch), French, and German.

The confusing thing is, train stations (including Metro stations) are marked with the names of both Flemish and French… and trust me – they’re usually not that similar.

This can cause some confusion if you’re looking for the right train to catch or the right station to get off at.

For example, Antwerp is Antwerpen in Flemish and Anvers in French, while Bruges is Brugge in Flemish. Be sure to have the name of your destination in both languages so that you don’t get confused when taking day trips!

Brussels Tips for Attractions

In need of tips for visiting Brussels’ many interesting attractions? Here are some must-knows and tricks:

Lower your expectations for Brussels’ top guidebook attractions

Brussels is an awesome city… the problem is most of the existing guides out there don’t do it justice!

I know this because I didn’t “get” Brussels until my third or fourth visit.

Especially on my first visit, I remember doing all the must sees that I read about on TripAdvisor, scurrying from one peeing kid statue to the next, having overpriced waffles in the center and going out of my way to see attractions that left me underwhelmed… all while sweating amongst hordes of fellow tourists doing the exact same circuit.

Trust me, if this is how you visit Brussels, you’ll likely be disappointed too!

Instead, I encourage you to check the attractions off your list, then explore the lovely neighbourhoods surrounding the Brussels city centre, visit some quirky museums, and read local blogs to get a feel for what people who actually live in Brussels enjoy doing, because I assure you it’s not “visit Mannekin Pis” (commonly considered one of the worst tourist traps in Europe ).

Planning to sightsee a lot? Get a Brussels Card

While I find the so-called “must-dos” of Brussels like Mannekin Pis fairly underwhelming, I do think Brussels has a TON of highly underrated attractions and museums for every interest under the sun.

If it’s your first time in the city and you want to check a lot of these places off your list, you should look into money-saving passes like the Brussels Card , which gives you access to pretty much all of Brussels’ museums for one price, so you can sightsee your eyeballs off.

On my most recent visit, I bought a Brussels Card so I could visit as many museums as I wanted and I definitely got my money’s worth… I probably saved (no joke) over 100 euros because of how many places I visited.

Visit one of Brussels’ many quirky and offbeat museums

Even if you don’t get a Brussels Card, I do recommend you visit at least one weird museum while in Brussels.

I’m not usually a museum person, but Brussels is filled with so many fun and quirky museums that it’s hard to resist!

I’m working on a full guide to the different Brussels museums you should visit, but definitely don’t rule out the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Royal Museum of Army and Military History, Autoworld, and the Belgian Comic Strip Museum.

Explore Brussels neighbourhoods outside the city center

While I must admit that Grand Place is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, where I think Brussels really thrives is in the little neighbourhoods surrounding the center, the ones that most visitors don’t think to visit!

To help get you started here are some Brussels neighbourhoods that are well worth a wander during your trip.

Sablon: With its charming cobblestoned streets and scenic surplus of chocolate shops, the Sablon district of Brussels is a wonderful place to wander and get a bit off the tourist trek. The Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon is of course a must-see.

St Gilles: Saint Gilles is a trendy, artsy neighbourhood in Brussels which is a complete magnet for artists and students thanks to its hip mix of eateries, boutiques and street art.

Les Marolles: Last but not least, this multicultural neighbourhood is Brussels’ melting pot, with all sorts of shops, restaurants, cafes and markets representing cultures from around the globe. A special highlight? It’s home to the most famous flea market in Brussels: the Jeu de Balle Flea Market which is open 365 days a year!

Learn about Brussels’ best hidden viewpoints

The view from the Mont de Arts is a well-known Brussels attraction, but there are in fact plenty of other (much lesser known) viewpoints that are worth checking out if you have time.

Getting these secret vantage points over the city really makes it much easier to fall in love with Brussels!

Two I recommend are:

• From the 5 th floor cafeteria of the Royal Library of Belgium
• From the 10 th floor restaurant of the Museum of Musical Instruments

Avoid bringing big bags with you sightseeing

I’ve noticed that Brussels in particular is very strict on the bags you bring into major attractions and museums.

In fact, most large bags aren’t allowed in museums, and they make you lock up your stuff in a small locker that wouldn’t fit more than a small backpack. So, prepare fo this and don’t bring any huge bags if your plan is to visit many museums or attractions.

Safety Tips for Brussels

One of the biggest questions first time visitors have is always “is Brussels safe?”

In my opinion, Brussels isn’t any more dangerous than other major European cities, but there are certain safety tips to keep in mind to ensure your trip is pleasant and stress-free. Here are my top safety tips for Brussels.

Get to know common pickpocketing scams

Like in most major European cities, the biggest threat to tourists in Brussels safety-wise is pickpockets.

I have written a full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe, but in Brussels, here are some general tips:

• Never leave your phone within reach (i.e. on restaurant tables, poking out of your pocket, etc.)
• Never leave your bags unattended (common sense, but this goes for restaurants too where you might be used to just hanging your purse on your chair)
• Consider investing in theft-proof bags like these
• Try hiding your belongings somewhere safe like in a money belt or (more stealthily) one of these hidden passport scarves
• Keep an eye out for distractions – often pickpockets will work in teams, so if someone stops you to chat, ensure your hand is covering your valuables

Try to blend in as much as possible

The beautiful thing about Brussels is that it is very multicultural, which makes it substantially easier to masquerade as a local no matter where you’re from.

And I do highly recommend you try to blend in as much as possible, because a lot of the safety issues in Brussels concerning tourists come down to how obviously you make yourself a target for opportunists.

Generally, here are some things I’d avoid in Brussels if you want to seem like less of a target:

• Looking lost and having a map out (either a paper map or your phone)
• Walking around with an expensive camera on your neck, and not paying attention to your surroundings
• Lugging around big shopping bags of expensive purchases (e.g. luxury shops, chocolate, etc.). I would conceal pricey purchases and bring them back to your hotel as soon as possible
• Flaunting your valuables (e.g. wearing expensive jewelry, leaving your phone out on a terrace table, etc.)

Be especially careful and vigilant near Brussels train stations

In Brussels, pickpockets tend to gather in busy transport hubs like train stations.

In most cases, simply keeping a close eye (and hand!) on your belongings is enough to thwart most pickpockets, who thrive on opportunity and “easy wins”.

That said, it’s important that you are especially cautious at train stations, particularly when arriving/leaving the city because all your belongings will be with you, and there’s plenty of potential distractions.

Avoid getting lost

While I’m usually a proponent of “getting lost” for fun in cities as a way of discovering it, this is less of a thing I’d recommend in Brussels.

This is because many of the areas often considered dangerous or seedy actually aren’t far from major tourist areas, so walking into them is pretty easy.

Again, Brussels isn’t a particularly dangerous city for tourists, but if you present yourself as an easy target, you’ll of course find people who are willing to take advantage, much like in other major cities around the world.

So, are there areas you should avoid in Brussels?

I mentioned these above, but here are some neighbourhoods and areas I would avoid in Brussels if possible, based on my own experiences:

• Around De Brouckere (after dark): I stayed here on my first visit and felt like there were large groups of catcallers and persistent men after dark, which made me feel very unsafe
• Molenbeek: I caught pickpocketers redhanded here as they tried to steal from me in the Metro while I got on a train
• Cureghem: I stayed near Brussels Midi station on a work trip once and, as a solo traveler, I wouldn’t do it again. There was a strange man who followed me pretty much all the way to my AirBNB, and I’ve heard of lots of theft/opportunist crime near the station

Food and Drink Tips for Brussels

Ah – now onto the good stuff. If you’re headed to Brussels, odds are you want some combination of beer, waffles and chocolate to be part of your itinerary. Well, here are some Brussels food/drink tips for you:

Avoid eating on Rue de Bouchers and other tourist trap restaurants

Rue de Bouchers is a notorious little street in Brussels that is infamous for its pushy restauranteurs, inflated tourist prices and subpar food.

As my tour guide emphasized, “this street is home to some of the worst restaurants in Brussels!”

Unfortunately, because of their approachable English menus and scarily adamant staff, this street is a natural trap for tourists, so be sure to steer clear of them.

Some evident signs that you might be at a tourist trap restaurant are 1) there’s an over-insistent staff member trying to get you to sit down, 2) there are big signs with giant pictures and all the menu items in English, 3) they have big block letters saying things like “TOURIST MENU, ENGLISH MENU, or FREE WIFI”.

Don’t shop for chocolate at Galeries Saint Hubert

One of my favourite spots in Brussels is the Galeries Saint Hubert. It’s a touristy place, but so beautiful I can’t resist!

What I don’t love though is the crowds.

I think the Galeries are lovely for strolling through, but not ideal for shopping, given the Hunger Gamesy nature of it when the bus tours roll in… so here’s a tip.

Most of the chocolatiers inside the Galeries (if not all of them) have other shops and locations in Brussels which will be MUCH less busy.

Punch the name of your preferred chocolatier into Google Maps and head to one of those other locations instead, because then you can take your time and eat your chocolate in peace (with substantially better customer service to match).

Learn how to identify medicore waffle stands

I know it sounds impossible, but yes, you actually CAN find bad waffles in Brussels, and they are usually found in the most touristic parts of the city because they’re out to dupe tourists who don’t know better.

Any generic-looking place that flaunts “1 EURO WAFFLES” and lures you in with plastic-y looking waffle displays covered in toppings is, unfortunately, likely to be mediocre.

I’m not saying they’ll be terrible (because come on, they’re still waffles) but the overwhelming consensus among my local friends is that no actual Belgian would get a waffle there, so that to me is telling!

For some local recommendations, here is a nice post from local blogger S Marks the Spots.’

Splurge at lunch

Many restaurants in Brussels offer lunch specials that serve the same quality meals as dinner, but at a much cheaper rate. If you want the best bang for your buck, consider going all out for lunches rather than dinners.

NOTE: Look out for the “Plat du Jour” (Dish of the Day) which is usually also cheaper.

Love beer? Delirium Café is a must

Many dismiss it as a tourist trap, but I still think the Delirium Café in Brussels is worth a visit for beer lovers so long as you’re in it for the novelty.

This café is world famous for holding the Guinness World Record for most beers available to taste, exceeding 2000 brews from around the world. You get to pick your beer from a giant binder, and trust me when I say there’s every flavou of beer you can imagine… including banana.

Go beyond Belgian cuisine

Brussels is one of the most international cities in the world, so don’t think you need to limit yourself to strictly Belgian cuisine during your visit!

If you begin to grow wary of waffles, chocolate and frites, then consider cleansing your palette (and arteries) with tasty global fare.

This website is an excellent resource for stylish restaurants in Brussels of all cuisine types.

I hope these Brussels Travel Tips were Helpful!

Let me know if you’ve ever been to Brussels. I’d love to hear your stories!

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3 thoughts on “20+ Brussels Travel Tips & Tricks: Must-Knows Before You Visit”

heading there for the first time in april, starting to plan and this article’s awesome!

So happy you found it helpful! Hope you enjoy Brussels 🙂

This blog is awesome! It’s not the typical one and you recommend different things. Thank you!!

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Public transport : STIB/MIVB

Metro, tram and bus. Public transport in Brussels is operated by STIB / MIVB.

Timetables:  06:00 - midnight - consult the timetables shown at the stops.

Where to buy your ticket: In public transport with contactless payment. You can pay for your trip using your contactless bank card (debit or credit), smartphone or smartwatch. Every STIB bus, tram and metro station is equipped with a specific contactless payment device. This device supports any bank card with the contactless logo. For smartphones and smartwatches, compatible payment applications are Google Pay, Apple Pay, Fitbit Pay and Garmin Pay. In the various metro stations and at the STIB information offices. 

MOBIB:  If you want to buy transport tickets, you need a personal or Basic MOBIB card. This reloadable card allows you to travel very easily in Brussels. Some tickets are also available in paper form.

Airport Line:  The Airport Line is a direct link between Brussels Airport and the European district, just a few steps away from the commercial and touristic heart of Brussels’ upper town.

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The prices mentioned on our web portal are “for information purposes only and subject to change”.  We advise you to consult the www.stib-mivb.be website for more information.

• BRUPASS 1 JOURNEY - Price: €2.40
• BRUPASS 10 JOURNEYS - Price: €16.80
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• GO2CITY 1 JOURNEY – At the airport, buy your ticket before you get on the bus at one of the GO ticket machines. There are ticket machines in the airport and outside at the bus stop – Price on the contactless validating machine: €7.00 – Price at a sales point: €7.50
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The STIB/MIVB Customer Care department is working for you. Whether you have a simple question or a rather complicated complaint, they will answer you as quickly as possible and will try to find you the best solution.  

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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.

Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

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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.

Parlamentarium Parlamentarium free

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Mont des Arts Mont des Arts free

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You are here: American University School of Public Affairs Key Executive Leadership Programs Key Abroad

Key Executives Abroad

An immersive learning experience for Key students in Brussels, Belgium. Key MPA, Key Certificate students and alum are all eligible to participate!

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Key Executives Abroad: Brussels, Belgium, 2024

If you’re a graduate student or practicing federal executive, the Brussels experience is for you!

Through the Key Executives Abroad Program, participants have an opportunity to engage in the European public sector in Brussels, Belgium during the one-week intensive residency. The program is designed to expose federal leaders to a comparative, experiential exploration of the politics, policymaking, and public administration challenges faced by public service leaders in the United States and European Union (EU). As public servants are challenged with decisions having a global impact, this program is designed to provide a greater understanding of the processes and influences guiding those decisions both home and abroad.

While in Brussels, participants learn from high-ranking officials from the EU Parliament, Commission and Council, and from staff members of various governance entities. In addition, leaders will spend a day with representatives from NATO discussing current controversies in the NATO community.

For more information, please email Sophie Idilbi , Associate Director. 

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The Brussels Experience with Key

Federal leaders are challenged with decisions having a global impact. This program is designed to provide a greater understanding of the processes, influences, and impact guiding those decisions both home and abroad.   The focus is on best practices and lessons that can be learned from the seasoned executives leading the European Union, and an interactive learning experience highlighting the similarities and differences between the US and EU political, governance and public administration processes. Both systems are examined to understand how policies and legislation are adopted, implemented, and enforced with the goal of identifying what is the same, what is different, and why the respective systems have developed as they have.  

 Specific advantages to attendees include:

• An in-residence opportunity to spend 6 days with federal executives from other agencies to examine and compare the processes, external forces, and internal mechanisms challenging leaders in the federal government.
• Exploration of the impact of political parties, culture, administrative barriers, race, interests, and capitalism on the implementation of public policy in the European Union.
• One-on-one time with senior leaders of the European Union Parliament, Commission and Council to explore and contrast institutional, economic, and political forces driving policy implementation from the 'federal' level.
• Exposure to the best practices used by European Union leaders in delivering Euro-wide policies and programs.
• Meetings with senior officials at NATO and the US Embassy to understand the leadership challenges faced on an international stage.

-Russell R. - Key Alumni, on his experience in Brussels

Key students have the opportunity to learn more about European government and engage in cultural exchange while in Brussels.

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Brussels Airport

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‘History made’ as EU parliament passes major migration and asylum reforms – as it happened

This live blog is now closed, you can read more on this story here

• 1h ago Summary of the day
• 2h ago 'We have acted', Metsola says
• 2h ago 'Dark day for human rights,' Left group says following pact approval
• 2h ago 'Historic': German chancellor welcomes migration pact
• 2h ago 'Only get worse': Greens criticise migration pact after vote
• 3h ago Renew president says those opposed to pact 'surf on people’s misery'
• 3h ago Centre-right celebrates migration pact approval
• 3h ago 'Not perfect': migration pact wins backing despite qualms
• 3h ago 'History made,' European parliament president says
• 3h ago EU migration pact adopted
• 6h ago What's in the package?
• 7h ago Welcome to the blog
• 7h ago European parliament to vote on key migration package

Malin Björk from the Swedish Left Party said the vote will not resolve problems, and that the Left group will not be supporting it.

There is no real solidarity, and there will be more of what is not working, she said. There will be detention, dehumanisation, violence, humiliation, she added.

We will see more cooperation with despots, the MEP warned.

One of the most important problems with the pact is that the individual right to asylum is being undermined, she argued.

Poland has not supported the migration pact for the last year and along with Hungary tried to block it at European leaders level.

The change in government after the election of Donald Tusk has not changed their position as he walks the fine political line between supporting his colleagues in the centre-right European People’s party group who are backing the deal and heading off opposition to migration in his base back home.

All eyes will be on the Polish EPP votes this afternoon. Many expect them to abstain rather than a vote against.

Juan Fernando López Aguilar , a socialist MEP from Spain, said that in the past a country would have a significant inflow of irregular migrants but with the new pact we have European solidarity, in a coordinated European approach.

We are going to have European legislation that is clear, with common guarantees, with protection of those who are more vulnerable – women, children unaccompanied minors.

It wasn’t easy, it was very thorny, he said. In every negotiations there are some concessions, but legal certainty is important, he stressed.

In the run-up to the election, we can say we did everything we could, he said.

Swedish MEP Tomas Tobé said the European parliament has an opportunity to deliver for citizens. The centre-right European people’s party will be supporting the migration and asylum pact, he said, stressing the need to strengthen Europe’s common borders.

The pact acknowldges the need to cooperate with third countries to better manage migration in the future, he said.

It’s about building trust, he said, conceding that the negotiations were long and hard. He thanked the Socialists and Democrats group, as well as Renew Europe and some parts of the European Conservatives and Reformists.

He urged the Greens and the Left group to vote in favour.

The Left group in the European parliament has said the pact of migration and asylum “represents a shameful capitulation to xenophobic narratives and a betrayal of Europe’s professed values.”

“Rather than heralding a new era of compassion and solidarity, it perpetuates a system of exclusion and oppression, condemning countless individuals to lives of uncertainty and fear,” it said.

Migration: European Parliament kills the right to asylum The New Pact on Migration and Asylum represents a shameful capitulation to xenophobic narratives and a betrayal of Europe’s professed values. #NotOurPact #StopThisPact Read our press release👉 https://t.co/axC6e8YcSp pic.twitter.com/YnApWsy1eM — The Left in the European Parliament (@Left_EU) April 10, 2024

Speaking at the European parliament, French MEP Fabienne Keller from the centrist Renew Europe group said the migration and asylum pact will allow the EU to be better equipped to respond to challenges.

The pact will not solve all problems, but constitutes a huge step forward toward control and humane management of migration, she said, stressing that it’s not the end of the journey and great efforts will be needed to ensure new rules are respected.

She called on centrist and pro-European parties to support the pact.

Members of the European parliament are now debating the migration and asylum package.

The centre-right European People’s party said it “wants to prevent irregular EU migration and unauthorised movements between EU countries and combat migrant smuggling.”

“The Pact on Asylum and Migration marks significant progress towards overcoming these challenges,” the EPP said.

The group has also said that “the Pact aims to stop attempts of certain states and non-state actors who use migrants for political purposes.”

📌The @EPPGroup wants to prevent irregular #EUMigration and unauthorised movements between EU countries and combat migrant smuggling. The Pact on Asylum and Migration marks significant progress towards overcoming these challenges. Watch the full video⬇ #EPlenary pic.twitter.com/kCv0ss6fQK — EPP Group (@EPPGroup) April 10, 2024

European parliament to vote on key migration package

After eight years of stalemate, more deadlocks and compromises., the rise of the far right across Europe has focused the minds of European leaders and compelled them to finally agree, by majority vote, to reform incoherent migration laws across the bloc.

Yet it still hangs in the balance with more than 700 MEPs being asked to vote 10 different bills through.

If passed it will mean fast-tracking of asylum applications and forced returns within as few as 12 weeks, an improvement in what several MEPs have said are dreadful standards in reception centres and alleviate the burden felt by countries like Greece and Italy which in the last year has shouldered responsibility for the majority of people being smuggled across the Mediterranean.

Ylva Johansson , the European commissioner for home affairs, who shepherded the legislative text through its torturous journey since 2016 is convinced it will pass. She admits however that if it does not the laws are in big trouble and it is unlikely that there will be appetite to revisit the matter in the next parliamentary mandate.

Last night it looked as if the Greens (72 of 705 seats), some socialists and some members of the centre right grouping in the European People’s Party in both Poland and France would be voting against some of the files.

Politicians in the far right groups including Alternative for Germany, Vox and National Rally have already been “discounted”.

The debate starts around 2pm Brussels time with votes at 5pm.

Welcome to the blog

Good afternoon and welcome back to the Europe blog, coming to you today from the European parliament in Brussels.

Members of the parliament will soon be debating and voting on a migration package.

Stay tuned and send thoughts to [email protected].

• Europe live

More on this story

EU asylum and migration pact has passed despite far right and left’s objections

EU passes asylum and migration pact after eight years of deadlock

Cyprus calls for EU help to manage record Syrian migration from Lebanon

Libya coastguard accused of hampering attempt to save more than 170 people

European Commission accused of ‘bankrolling dictators’ by MEPs after Tunisia deal

Watchdog urges EU rescue rules change after migrant boat disaster off Greece

Calais people-smuggling gang broken up with 19 arrests, says Europol

Number of people arriving by boat in Canaries from west Africa jumps 1,000%

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• The First MICHELIN Key Hotels: All the Keys in France

The MICHELIN Guide announces top honors for French hotels in 2024.

MICHELIN Keys France Hotels

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

On April 8, 2024, the MICHELIN Guide revealed the brand new One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in France.

This announcement comes four years into a comprehensive refresh of our hotel selection. The MICHELIN Guide now includes over 5,000 hotels across the world, and not a single one is simply a room for the night. These are places that significantly add to your experience as a traveler, each vetted and judged excellent in five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Which brings us back to the Keys. The culmination of countless hours of evaluation by our team of experts, the Key hotels below represent the highlights of our broader selection. Like the MICHELIN Stars for restaurants, the MICHELIN Keys are our most outstanding hotels. In total, the 2024 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection in France includes 24 Three Key hotels, 38 Two Key hotels, and 127 One Key hotels. Want to know more about the MICHELIN Key? Here’s everything you need to know . Or, head below to look at all the Keys.

How To Look Through the List

Jump straight to the list or take a deeper dive into select key hotels..

Take a peek at the top-floor suite of the only chateau hotel in Paris. See what makes this hotel among the greatest art museums in the country. Or find out more about the wine hotel that uses an entire town as its foundation. Subscribe to our newsletter for more like this.

Highlights of the France 2024 Key Hotel List

The Palaces: A Distinctly French High Luxury

Expect: Butler service, high quality spas, and sumptuous spare-no-expense design. The government of France itself bestows an official Palace designation, with French tourism officials judging the most luxurious hotels in France to ensure they provide particular amenities and services (a spa, a multilingual check-in desk, a concierge service, etc.) and an excellent representation of the country. Out of 31 official palace hotels in France, many earned at least one Key — and several make up our Three Key hotels. Of the palaces that earned at least One Key, you’ll find a mix of the most historic ( the Four Seasons George V ), the most modern ( Le K2 Palace ), and the newer takes on the traditional form ( La Réserve Paris ). All are exceptional. Also read: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

The Country Darlings: Chateaus and Vineyards

Our first annual list of Key hotels in France confirms the supremacy of these two mainstays: chateau and vineyard accommodations. Look to Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey and Château de la Gaude as particular examples of Two Key hotels that combine both. Or look just outside Bordeaux, to Les Sources de Caudalie . Built on a natural hot spring and operated by the famous Caudalie beauty brand, it’s a particularly fascinating Three Key property on the grounds of the Château Smith Haut-Lafitte vineyard.

Paris 2024: Little Boutiques Full of Hip, Trendy Design and Endless Color

We’re thrilled that in our inaugural Key distinctions we can celebrate an especially strong crop of small, design-forward boutique hotels that are anything but content to be conventional. With bright, colorful design that’s of the moment, they’re grounded in technical know-how, impeccable taste, and informed by a fascinating, sometimes quirky history. Explore Hôtel Le Ballu , La Fantaisie , Providence , Les Bains , and Norman Hôtel & Spa to see just what we mean. Also read: Inside Hôtel Le Ballu: A singular, artsy refuge in the heart of Paris

Click below to jump to each distinction: 

The three key hotels.

Antibes: Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc Bordeaux: Les Sources de Caudalie Champillon: Le Royal Champagne Courchevel: Cheval Blanc Courchevel Courchevel: Le K2 Palace Gordes: La Bastide de Gordes Le Castellet: Hôtel du Castellet Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: Villa La Coste Les Baux-de-Provence: Baumanière Megève: Four Seasons Megeve Monte-Carlo: Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo Paris: Villeroy Paris: La Réserve Paris Paris: Saint James Paris Paris: Four Seasons George V Paris: Cheval Blanc Paris Paris: Ritz Paris Paris: Le Bristol Paris Paris: Le Meurice Paris: Plaza Athénée Reims: Domaine Les Crayères Saint Tropez: La Reserve Ramatuelle Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: Grand Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat Versailles:  Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle

NEW: Paris by The MICHELIN Guide – expert insights on where to dine, stay and explore

The two key hotels.

Aix-en-Provence: Château de la Gaude Avignon: La Mirande Biarritz: Hôtel du Palais Bommes: Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey Busnes: Le Château de Beaulieu Cassis: Les Roches Blanches Cheverny: Les Sources de Cheverny Cognac: Chais Monnet Courchevel: Aman Le Mélézin Courchevel: L'Apogée Courchevel Dinard: Castelbrac Eugenie les Bains: Les Pres d’Eugenie - Michel Guerard Èze: Château Eza Èze: Château de la Chèvre d'Or Gargas: Coquillade - Provence Honfleur: La Ferme Saint-Siméon Lauris: Domaine de Fontenille Le Grand-Lucé: Château du Grand-Lucé Massignac: Domaine des Étangs Monte-Carlo: Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo Montpellier: Domaine de Biar Nice: Le Negresco Paris: Crillon Paris: J.K. Place Paris Paris: Lutetia Paris: Nolinski Paris: Bulgari Hôtel Paris Paris: Le Royal Monceau Paris: The Peninsula Paris Paris: Shangri-La Paris Porto-Vecchio: Casadelmar Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: The Maybourne Riviera Sabran: Château de Montcaud Saint Tropez: Airelles Saint-Tropez Château de la Messardière Saint Tropez: Cheval Blanc St-Tropez Saint-Méloir-des-Ondes: Château Richeux - Les Maisons de Bricourt Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Le Domaine du Mas de Pierre Val-d'Isère: Le K2 Chogori

The One Key Hotels

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Bourgogne-franche-comté, centre-val de loire, haut-de-france, île-de-france, nouvelle-aquitaine, pays de la loire, provence-alpes-côte d'azur.

Jean-Georges Vongerichten On His New York

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Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

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In Photos: Every Three Key Hotel in Paris

The ins and outs of the most outstanding hotels in the city.

One, Two and Three MICHELIN Keys

Just as the MICHELIN Stars recognize outstanding restaurants, hotels now have their own distinction.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

How To Turn an Entire Town Into a Bright Pink, One Key Wine Hotel

As you stroll the remote French village of Assignan, you can’t miss the colors of Chateau & Village Castigno, a wine hotel that’s been splashed throughout the town.

Three Keys in Bordeaux: The Hot Spring Hotel in Wine Country

Les Sources de Caudalie combines Vinotherapy from the famous French brand with a natural hot spring and an ancient vineyard.

Inside Room 311 of the Only Three Key Château in Paris

The so-called 'Piano Suite' is an exclusive oasis atop a completely singular Parisian manor.

Inside a Historic Tapestry of French Design: Provence's Two Key La Mirande

In the heart of Provence and steps from the palace where seven Popes once reigned, La Mirande is a time capsule of centuries of French decorative arts — all in an unmistakably luxurious hotel.

Where Bowie and Jagger Partied: Now a Dazzling One Key Hotel in Paris

Les Bains Paris was a spa for Proust and a nightclub for Bowie and Jagger. Now, it might be the city's hippest design hotel — recently awarded one of Paris' first MICHELIN Keys.

Three Key Dreamland: An Art-Drenched Wine Estate Decorated by Gehry and Dylan

Patrick McKillen turned an old French vineyard into a striking hotel with a collection of art and architecture to rival the world’s very best. It's among the first Three Key hotels in France.

Everything You Need to Know About the MICHELIN Key for Hotels

In April 2024, the MICHELIN Guide debuts a brand new distinction: the MICHELIN Key. While the MICHELIN Star recognizes the most outstanding restaurants in the world, the MICHELIN Key does the same for outstanding hotels. Here’s everything you need to know about the new distinction.

MICHELIN Hotel Lobbies Redefine Coworking for Modern Professionals

Discover the best hotel lobbies for communal working.

Aggro-Tourism: 12 Hotels for Blowing Off Steam

When the real world gets too heavy, you could escape to a comfy chair on a quiet beach. Or, you could release all that stress via more aggressive means. These hotels are for the latter.

This Week’s New Hotels

MICHELIN Guide hotel experts share their most exciting discoveries for the week of March 25.

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Puerto Rico’s southern coast is the island’s best-kept secret

Take it from a guayama native: the caribbean coast is worth exploring from end to end.

The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind.

Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation transforms into clusters of cactuses and shrubs, painting an arid landscape against the distant view of the Caribbean Sea.

Ranging east to west from the town of Yabucoa to Cabo Rojo, the southern coast of Puerto Rico is rich in culture, food, beaches and nature. But beyond all the tangible attractions, locals say the spirit of hospitality makes the place unique. “Our greatest asset is the people, who make people feel at home,” says Milexys Rosado Romero, the owner of Hacienda Tres Casitas , a farm stay in Cabo Rojo.

I learned this growing up in Guayama, where neighbors traded mangoes for papayas. My parents were always inviting people for coffee, or my dad might arrive home with a bagful of fresh seafood he got from a friend he ran into at the beach.

Unfortunately, no reliable public transport options exist, so renting a car is the best bet to reach the smaller towns and unspoiled beaches. Highway 52 traverses the island from north to south, taking you from San Juan to Guayama in around 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Ponce in two hours or less. Highway 2 takes you west to Cabo Rojo and up the western coast, and Route 3 takes you along the eastern coast with scenic ocean views of Patillas and Maunabo.

If traveling during the fall, you may catch surfers in Guardarraya Beach in Patillas. It’s hard to get lost as you can easily find lesser-known beaches via Google Maps, with good cell coverage throughout the region.

Many of the lodgings offered on the southern coast, from the luxury Copamarina Beach Resort to the kid-friendly Combate Beach Resort , have been owned by local families for generations. Farm stays, small inns known as paradors and vacation rentals dominate the accommodations, making for a relaxed scene.

I recommend visiting from Wednesdays to Sundays for a livelier scene and more dining options; earlier in the week is perfect for having the beaches all to yourself.

Low-key beaches in Cabo Rojo

Even the Caribbean Sea beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Rico are in chill mode, more relaxed than their choppy Atlantic Ocean counterparts in the north.

With small waves and shallow waters, Combate Beach, on the southwest corner, is ideal for families. Make it a day-long affair with a passion fruit mojito at Annie’s Place with picturesque sunset views.

For a more rustic beach experience, go to Playa Sucia, one of Puerto Rico’s southernmost beaches. While there, hike the trails leading to El Faro de Cabo Rojo and Puente de Piedra for 360-degree views of a colorful mix of Caribbean blues, sandy-colored rocky enclaves and green mangroves along the coast. Walk a mile and a half north of Playa Sucia, and you will encounter the Salinas de Cabo Rojo, with colorful yellow-shouldered blackbirds flying over the pink salt flats.

Boquerón is a neighborhood known for its stands of local fish, oysters and clams. You can also take a dip at its small sandy strip. The neighborhood is vibrant, with music blaring throughout the many kiosks and beachside restaurants, most specializing in seafood. You don’t have to go far inland to find roasted pork at Camino Los Charros. Rosado also recommends La Catumba Lechonera among the many restaurants that specialize in pork.

Restaurants on the rise in Guayama

“Guayama esta pegao” — in style, according to what I’ve heard from many friends across the island.

A coastal city on the southeastern side, it is known for having a charming plaza (town square) with homes and buildings dating from the 1800s. One of these historical homes houses Gallo Pinto , a restaurant by chef Ángel David Moreno Zayas that has become a destination with dishes like grilled oysters, bone marrow with beef tartare, and fried red snapper.

“I’ve worked in many kitchens in San Juan and the mainland United States, but I wanted to open my restaurant in Guayama,” says Moreno Zayas of his hometown. “It started as a casual place because we were recovering from the pandemic, but now we’ve incorporated more fine-dining elements, and the reception has been spectacular.”

After a feast at Gallo Pinto, one must save room for ice cream at one of Guayama’s classic spots, Rex Cream. Owned by Chinese-Cuban immigrants, the Louke Chang family, it’s a mandatory stop. A scoop of salty-sweet corn ice cream with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon is perfect for a walk along the plaza.

At Pozuelo, a fishermen’s neighborhood beyond the city center, go to El Arcoiris for one of my childhood favorites, the octopus salad with a side of tostones. Or bite into a crispy alcapurria — a fritter made of banana and root vegetables — at El Fogón de Susa as you stroll along the beach.

You can find one of the most impressive wine lists in the south at Prime Market , where local couple Laury Cordero Sabater and Antonio Palau transformed an old home along Route 3 into an ample outdoor patio with a menu specializing in steaks.

Art and culture in Ponce

It’s hard to find Puerto Ricans prouder of their hometown than Ponceños. I’m not disputing their pride, because the city has so much to offer, especially in terms of arts and culture.

“Start with a walking tour of the city center of Ponce to learn about the history of Ponce and gain an orientation of the city,” says Melina Aguilar Colón, the founder of Isla Caribe tours. “One of the sights not to be missed is the Parque de Bombas de Ponce,” she said. Initially built in 1882 for the Exhibition Trade Fair, the Ponce firehouse is a symbol of the city; the distinct red-and-black-striped facade was an inspiration for the Ponce flag.

After walking through the city center, go for cocktails along Paseo de la Salsa Cheo Feliciano, named after the pioneering salsa singer José Feliciano. At El Marlin 107, William Collazo, a big name in Puerto Rico’s cocktail community, mixes drinks with tropical infusions like coconut water, guava and mangoes. On the weekends, expect live music along the street where you can test your salsa skills. For dinner, head to Chef’s Creations, where you catch chef Jorge Rivera cooking over a wood-fired grill in his restaurant’s patio.

Although the city has suffered structural damage during Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by an earthquake in 2020, Ponce has focused on reconstruction and updates to many of its cultural institutions. The Teatro La Perla, a cultural hub for performance art, is set to reopen in 2025 with plays and musical performances. The Art Museum of Ponce , home of the iconic “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton (which is currently on loan to the Royal Academy of Arts in London), recently reopened its doors after extensive repairs.

Ponce is also considered the birthplace of plena music, one of the traditional sounds of Puerto Rico. Deeply infused with African beats, plena tells the story of the Puerto Rican people from the early 1900s. You can learn more about plena and other Puerto Rican music like bomba and danza at the Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña, a small museum in the city center.

El Bosque dry forest and bioluminescent bays

According to Aguilar Colón, “everybody knows about El Yunque rainforest, but nobody talks about El Bosque Seco de Guánica, the dry forest on the island’s southwest coast.” I agree.

One of the things that makes Puerto Rico unique is the contrast of ecosystems in a relatively small island. Walking along the trails, you will notice the different varieties of cactuses, Guayacán trees and mangroves as you get closer to the shoreline. Birdwatchers will rejoice with the sights of sparrow hawks, hummingbirds and brown pelicans. The dry forest is one of the island’s hottest places, so ensure you bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Next to Guánica, in the neighboring town of Lajas, there’s another natural phenomenon. La Parguera is home to one of the three bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico. Because of overpopulation, it’s not as bright as in Vieques, but it’s still worth a trip if you’re in the area.

The local dock offers boat rides, and you can also find kayak tours taking you deeper into the bay for better views. Beyond the bay, the Parguera is known for its bustling scene on the weekends with plenty of bars, restaurants and bands.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus is a travel and food writer, digital content creator and the author of “ The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico .” She divides her time between Brussels, D.C. and western New York. Follow her on Instagram @diningtraveler .

Where to go

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