Brussels, the largest city and capital of Belgium, as well as the capital of the European Union, is a city of contrasts. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and cosmopolitan vibe, Brussels seamlessly blends the old and the new. From its medieval streets and Art Nouveau masterpieces to its bustling markets, modern buildings and innovative gastronomy, Brussels offers travelers a dynamic experience. I recently visited Belgium to tour its many Christmas markets, and used Brussels as a hub. A long, three day weekend provides enough time for visitors to see some of the city’s best and most unique sights, and taste its regional and international cuisine.
The rich history of Brussels dates to the 10th century when it was a small fortress town built around a chapel on the River Senne. During the medieval period, the city became a major trade hub. During the 14th century, Brussels became a hub for the textile trade, producing luxurious tapestries that gained international acclaim. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Brussels played a pivotal role in the formation of Belgium as a nation. Following the establishment of Belgium’s independence in 1830, Brussels became the country’s center of political and cultural life. Following the Second World War, Brussels became a center of international politics, with the Treaty of Brussels being signed in 1948, a prelude to the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
It’s international stature also became prominent around this time, hosting the 1958 World Expo, which introduced the city’s most famous attraction, the iconic Atomium. Today, Brussels stands as the de facto capital of the European Union, as well as a top financial center of Western Europe. This international stature is reflected in its multi-cultural population consisting of a significant number of immigrants and expatriates. The city’s historical narrative is reflected in its architecture, from Gothic churches and Renaissance buildings to Art Nouveau gems and modern glass buildings and highrises. Brussels also has a very quirky side which is reflected in its cityscape. Cartoon enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s nod to various Belgian comic strips, such as Tintin, Lucky Luke, the Smurfs and others, whose characters are incorporated into large building murals throughout the city.
Day 1 – Grand Place and Environs
Start your trip by visiting the heart of Brussels, including its most famous landmark, Grand Place, and other historic sites.
Grand Place – The best place to start a visit to Brussels is at its heart, the breathtaking and renowned Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known to be one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Making our way from our hotel, through a narrow alley, we suddenly arrived at the opening of the large square, finding ourselves gazing at the surrounding buildings including multiple guildhalls. The architecture is nothing short of extraordinary, with ornate Gothic, Baroque, and Louis XIV styles reflecting the city’s rich history. Each guildhall contains intricately carved facades adorned with gilded statues, floral motifs, and elaborate details. The focal point of the Gothic style Town Hall is its towering spire and delicate sculptures. Opposite it, the King’s House, or Maison du Roi, showcases a striking Neo-Gothic design.
The square is a lively gathering spot throughout the day. Having visited during the Christmas season, we were greeted by a life size manger scene and large decorated Christmas tree. Thousands of spectators arrived at night to watch a sound and light show, where buildings were illuminated in various colors and an artistic show was projected across the façade of City Hall. Another popular event, the biannual Flower Carpet show is held in August, where the square is adorned with intricate floral designs. We enjoyed a light breakfast at La Brouette, a traditional brasserie offering views of the square.
Brussels City Museum – After discovering the beauty of Grand Place, head to the adjacent Brussels City Museum located within the King’s House. This museum offers a treasure trove of history and culture, with an in-depth look at the city’s evolution from its medieval roots to its modern-day prominence. Its collection includes paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and artifacts, portraying Brussels’ artistic and historical heritage. A highlight is an exhibit dedicated to the many costumes of the Manneken Pis. This small statue of a boy peeing has become one of the best-known symbols of Brussels and Belgium. The original statue is located a few blocks away on Rue de l’Etuve.
Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert – A block to the north of Grand Place is the magnificent Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. This glass-roofed arcade, which opened in 1847, is one of Europe’s oldest indoor shopping galleries, featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, chocolatiers, jewelers, and cafés. The arcade is a stunning example of 19th-century elegance, with its arched ceilings, ornate facades and intricate design. During the Christmas season, nearly every shop window had an elaborate and colorful display to entertain the crowds. It was the perfect place to indulge in some window shopping while admiring the architectural beauty.
St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral – We finished the afternoon visiting St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, located a few blocks northeast of the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. This stunning Gothic masterpiece dating to the 9th century is dedicated to the city’s patron saints. The current Gothic design took shape between the 13th and 16th centuries, and includes twin towers, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows. The interior holds impressive artworks and a magnificent Baroque pulpit.
Later that afternoon, we headed to one of the city’s magical Christmas markets. There are numerous markets set up within the various squares around Brussels, containing over 250 wooden chalet stalls. The largest of the markets is located at Marché aux Poissons, a long linear square anchored at one end by a large ferris wheel that allows for a view of the decorated city from above. We enjoyed hot gluhwein while mingling with hundreds of other people enjoying the holiday spirit. Stay tuned for a future blog post about Christmas markets throughout Belgium.
For dinner, try any of the many restaurants in the city center area. We ate at Le Plattesteen, a Belgian restaurant located near Rue de Marche, a lively area full of bars and clubs. I enjoyed the Boulets à la Liégeoise, traditional Belgium meatballs served with a syrup made of apple and pear juices, served with frites.
Day 2 – Parks, Government and Museums
A good way to spend a second day in Brussels is to enjoy its numerous parks and museums. Brussels offers plenty of green spaces to relax and unwind. We concentrated on those to the east of the city center, including Parc du Cinquantenaire, a sprawling park featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, triumphal arches, and numerous museums.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts – After a coffee and pastry at Bouche Specialty Coffee, we headed to the nearby Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium. This renowned museum complex comprises several institutions, including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Magritte Museum. We marveled at masterpieces by Flemish painters like Peter Paul Rubens and Pieter Bruegel the Elder. A separate section of the museum is dedicated to the surrealist works of renowned Belgian artist René Magritte.
Royal Palace of Brussels – We walked by the Royal Palace of Brussels, an architectural gem and symbol of Belgium’s constitutional monarchy. While the King and Queen reside in Laeken, the palace serves as the official venue for royal functions and state affairs. The building’s neoclassical facade exudes grandeur and the interior is filled with opulent rooms adorned with chandeliers, gilded details, and frescoes. The palace is open to the public during summer, after the National Day of July 21 and through early September. From the palace, we walked through Brussels Park, the city’s first park which is designed in a neo-classical style, then a mile east along Rue de la Loi toward Parc du Cinquantenaire. This boulevard is lined with nondescript modern buildings with little individuality, and some visitors may wish to use public transportation instead.
A mile south of Rue de la Loi, at Luxembourg Square in the Leopold Quarter, is the European Parliament. The Parliament stands as a symbol of democracy and collaboration within the European Union. The modern Paul-Henri Spaak building houses the legislative body that represents over 450 million EU citizens. Visitors can explore the Parlamentarium, an interactive visitors’ center that offers insights into the EU’s history, workings, and impact. Hemicycle, the Parliament’s main debating chamber, is also open with guided tours that provide a firsthand look at where critical decisions shaping Europe’s future are made.
Parc du Cinquantenaire – Parc du Cinquantenaire, or “Park of the Fiftieth Anniversary,” is located about a mile east of the Royal Palace. This grand park was established in 1880 to celebrate Belgium’s 50th year of independence. One of its most impressive features is the majestic triumphal arch flanked by colonnades and topped with a bronze statue of a four horse chariot. The park has been used to host races, trade fairs, the 1888 World Exposition, and car shows. Within the park are several museums, including AutoWorld, the Art and History Museum, and the Royal Military Museum. We visited AutoWorld, a paradise for car enthusiasts. This two-level museum boasts an impressive collection of over 250 vintage and classic cars, from the late 19th century to modern times. Visitors can explore thematic exhibitions and marvel at the craftsmanship and innovation that define the automotive industry. We enjoyed a late lunch within the museum’s restaurant, Bagnole Brasserie.
Near our hotel was a small Belgian restaurant named Nüetnigenough, which always had a line out the door every time we went by it. We assumed it must be good, so decided to arrive early, around 6pm. After waiting about fifteen minutes, we were seated in the cozy brasserie, which only had enough tables to serve about ten people at a time. The wait is well worth it. The menu consists of pure Belgian comfort food as well as a large beer and wine selection. Besides a salad and homemade bread, I enjoyed a flavorful and tender Flemish beef stew and crispy frites. The restaurant does not take reservations.
Day 3 – The Quirky Side of Brussels
On your last day, head to the city’s northern outskirts to explore some of the more unusual sights of Brussels before ending with a taste of chocolate at the Choco Story Brussels Museum.
Laeken Park – Start the day wandering through Laeken Park, part of the Royal estate located north of the city center. This expansive park designed in the French style has numerous paths, lawns, lakes and wooded areas. Within the park are numerous attractions, including Royal greenhouses, Laeken Castle, and the flamboyant neo-Gothic Dynasty monument which houses a statue of King Leopold I.
The Atomium – Just outside Laeken Park is the Atomium, a modernist structure built as part of the 1958 World’s Fair, and the most popular attraction in Brussels. The structure, reaching nearly 340 feet high, consists of nine steel spheres all connected by tubes resembling an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can explore several of the spheres, which house exhibitions on science, design, and the history of the Atomium itself. The top sphere features a panoramic viewing platform, offering views of Brussels and beyond.
Mini-Europe – Next to the Atomium is Mini Europe, a theme park that has reproductions of famous European monuments at a scale of 1:25. The park includes the recreation of approximately 80 cities and 350 monuments and buildings, as well as gardens and animations. Visitors can walk amongst the Eiffel Tower, Brandenburg Gate, the Acropolis, Mount Vesuvius, Grand Place, Prague Town Hall and more, all in one day.
Choco Story Brussels Museum – End your day back in the City Center with delectable treats at the Choco Story Brussels Museum. This fun and interesting stop is a must-see for chocolate lovers and those curious about the history of Belgium’s most iconic sweet. Located just a few blocks south of Grand Place, the interactive museum explores the origins of chocolate, from ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations to its arrival in Europe, and eventual transformation into delectables such as pralines and truffles. The museum features engaging exhibits and opportunities to sample different types of chocolate, as well as live chocolate making demonstrations.
A Culinary Capital
Belgium is renowned for its culinary delights, offering a myriad of both local and international cuisine. With its cosmopolitan population, almost every national cuisine can be found in Brussels. Visitors should take advantage of trying Belgian cuisine, which is characterized by a combination of French flavors with more hearty Flemish fare. Some notable dishes include Brussels waffles served with delicious and sweet toppings, mussels, and frites (fries) served with a variety of sauces. We devoured crispy frites accompanied with a tomato pineapple sauce at a local frites shop named La Friterie. Boulets à la Liégeoise are a traditional Belgium meatball recipe made with a mixture of minced pork and beef cooked in a delicious sweet and sour sauce. Don’t miss a visit to one of the city’s historic beer halls, such as A La Mort Subite, to enjoy a pint of authentic Belgian beer in a classic setting. Belgium is perhaps best known for its famous and decadent chocolates. Belgian chocolates are crafted by master chocolatiers who have perfected the art over centuries. Brussels offers endless opportunities to savor exquisite pralines, truffles, and ganaches. Visitors can select world-famous brands like Godiva and Neuhaus, or visit artisanal shops such as Pierre Marcolini and Laurent Gerbaud.
When to Visit Brussels
Brussels has a temperate climate with four seasons. Spring (March to May) is a great season to visit Brussels, as the city comes alive with blooming flowers, mild weather, and outdoor festivals. Rainfall tends to be lower during Spring, especially in April and May. During Summer (June to August) warmer temperatures (average highs in the low 70s Fahrenheit) attract a lively atmosphere, outdoor dining, and outdoor concerts and festivals. However, July is considered a rainy period. Autumn (September to November) offers a quieter, more relaxed experience, as the summer crowds thin out. Average highs are in the upper 50s to 60s Fahrenheit. Winter (December to February) transforms Brussels into a magical wonderland, with Christmas markets, festive lights, and seasonal treats like warm waffles and mulled wine. Average highs during winter are in the mid 40s Fahrenheit, although the season is more likely to experience wind, overcast skies, rain or occasional snow.
Getting To and Around Brussels
Most visitors arrive to Brussels at Luchtaven Airport. Getting to the city is easy using public transportation, buses and taxis. The train station is located directly below the departures hall at Level -1. There are eight trains per hour (weekdays) that go to Brussels Central Station, and the trip is approximately 17 minutes. On weekends, there are five trains per hour.
Brussels boasts an efficient public transportation network consisting of trams, buses, and metro lines managed by STIB-MIVB. Tickets are available at kiosks, stations, or mobile apps and can be used across all modes of transport. A travel card or the Brussels Card includes unlimited transport and discounts on attractions, which can be a cost-effective option.
Central Station is located about an eight minute walk east from Grand Place. From the station, visitors can access public transport, regional trains (that provide service to other cities such as Ghent, Antwerp and Bruges), and EuroStar which provides high speed train service to London, Amsterdam and Paris.
Walking is both an easy and enjoyable way of seeing the city. Many of the city’s best attractions are located within the central part of the city, including Grand Place, Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, and numerous museums.
For cycling enthusiasts, Brussels provides dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing services like Villo!. The Brussels card allows visitors to use Villo! for three days for only 1 Euro. The first 30 minutes of each journey are free. After the free period: 2nd additional half-hour at €0.50, 3rd half-hour at €1 and subsequent half-hours at €2 per half hour;
For a unique perspective, consider hopping on one of the open-top tourist buses available from Toot Bus. The buses are on a fixed route and stop at key attractions throughout the city, allowing users to explore at their own pace within a daily or two-day pass.