Discovering Brussels: A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Belgium’s Capital

Explore the finest activities to relish in Brussels, Belgium. From marveling at the ornate architecture to indulging in sumptuous chocolate and beer, the city offers a delightful experience for travelers. Discover your next adventure with our curated list of top Things to do in Brussels, Belgium.

Introduction

Brussels is important as the capital of Belgium and the EU, but it’s also charming, lively, and charming. Brussels attracts travelers from around the world with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and famed chocolate stores. This vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you’re into culture, history, or fun. In this post, we’ll look at some of the top things to do in Brussels, Belgium, to help you plan your vacation.

Discovering the City: Top Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium

1. Grand Place

Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is a historic square in Brussels, Belgium. The Town Hall, Breadhouse, and House of the Dukes of Brabant surround the plaza with Gothic architecture. Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most magnificent squares. It’s a commercial and tourist hub in Brussels with a strong cultural history. The square’s winter light and sound are spectacular and year-round festivals and events are equally notable.

Visit the Grand Place if you just have time in Brussels. This gorgeous square, surrounded by antique structures, is generally dubbed one of Europe’s most beautiful. The Grand Place is magnificent at night when the buildings are lit up.

2. Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis, a bronze monument in Brussels, Belgium, is famous. The statue of a naked boy urinating into a fountain basin has become a city landmark. Manneken Pis’ origins are unknown, however, the statue is thought to have been made in the early 17th century. The monument has been stolen and destroyed multiple times, but it is still a tourist draw. Over 900 costumes are rotated throughout the year for various events on the statue. Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ quirkiest and most cherished attractions.

The Manneken Pis, a little monument of a child peeing into a fountain, is one of Brussels’ most recognized landmarks. Despite its diminutive stature, the statue is liked by locals and visitors. The statue may be decked up if you’re lucky.

3. Atomium

The Atomium in Brussels is a remarkable building. For the 1958 World Expo, engineer André Waterkeyn designed it. The Atomium is a 165 billion-fold magnified iron crystal made of nine steel spheres joined by tubes. The Atomium has a restaurant, a permanent display commemorating the 1958 World Expo, and an elevator to the top sphere for panoramic views over Brussels. The Atomium is a major tourist attraction in Brussels and a municipal emblem due to its unique architecture.

For the 1958 Brussels World Expo, the Atomium was erected. One of Brussels’ most famous landmarks, the structure is a 165 billion-fold magnified iron crystal. Visitors can ride a lift to see the city.

4. Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a Brussels art museum complex. Its museums include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Antoine Wiertz Museum, and the Constantin Meunier Museum. Rubens, Bruegel, Magritte, and Van Gogh are among the Belgian and foreign painters represented in the collections. The Museum of Ancient Art showcases Flemish Primitives, Renaissance, and Baroque art from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Modern Belgian and foreign artists’ works are on display in the Museum of Modern Art. Antoine Wiertz’s works are featured at the Antoine Wiertz Museum, whereas Constantin Meunier’s are at the Constantin Meunier Museum. Art enthusiasts should visit Brussels’ Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

Visit Belgium’s Royal Museums of Fine Arts if you like art. The museum’s collection includes Rubens, Van Dyck, and Magritte.

5. Belgian Chocolate

Belgian Chocolate Brussels is known for its chocolate. Visit one of the city’s many chocolate shops or take a chocolate tour. The chocolatiers make a variety of handmade chocolates and pralines with unique flavors and styles. Visitors can taste chocolate from milk to dark and learn about its production. Neuhaus, Leonidas, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini are Brussels’ most famous chocolatiers. Belgium makes some of the world’s best chocolate, and a visit to Brussels isn’t complete without trying some.

Belgium’s famed chocolate is a must-try in Brussels. Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Godiva are some of the top chocolate shops and cafes in the city.

6. Mini-Europe

If you’re traveling with children, or if you just love miniature things, be sure to check out Mini-Europe. This attraction features replicas of famous landmarks from all over Europe, including the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and Big Ben.

7. Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is a beautiful park in the heart of Brussels. The park is home to the Cinquantenaire Arch, a stunning triumphal arch that was built in 1905. The park is also home to several museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History.

8. Belgian Waffles

Another must-try food in Brussels is the Belgian waffle. These waffles are light, crispy, and delicious, and are often served with toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and fresh fruit. Some of the best places to try Belgian waffles in Brussels include Maison Dandoy, Le Funambule, and Waffle Factory.

9. Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the Belgian King and Queen, but it’s also open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can take a tour and see the stunning interiors, including the Mirror Room, the Throne Room, and the Grand Staircase.

10. Brussels Comic Book Route

Belgium is famous for its comic book culture, and Brussels has embraced this with its Comic Book Route. This trail takes you on a tour of the city’s streets, where you can see murals of famous comic book characters such as Tintin, Lucky Luke, and the Smurfs. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the city.

Other Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium

While the above are some of the top things to do in Brussels, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to check out, including:

·         The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

·         The Musical Instruments Museum

·         The Belgian Brewers Museum

·         The Museum of Natural Sciences

·         The Sablon neighborhood, known for its antique shops and chocolatiers

Conclusion

Brussels is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just having a good time, there are plenty of things to do in Brussels, Belgium, to keep you entertained. From the Grand Place to the Belgian waffles, the Manneken Pis to the Atomium, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. So start planning your trip today and discover all that Brussels has to offer.