From the delightful world of comic strips to the irresistible allure of world-class chocolate, Belgium’s capital, Brussels, offers an eclectic array of experiences sure to captivate every traveler. While often perceived as a business-centric hub, Brussels pulsates with a vibrant nightlife and boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and historical attractions, welcoming visitors of all ages to discover its hidden gems.
Whether you find yourself wandering through the majestic Grand-Place, browsing the wares of local merchants, or indulging in the decadent delights of Belgian chocolate at Choco-Story, a journey to Brussels is incomplete without immersing yourself in its most captivating offerings. Prepare to be enchanted by the city’s unique blend of history, art, gastronomy, and culture as we unveil The Top 20 Things to Do in Brussels.
- See How European Parliament Really Works:
Brussels holds the distinction of being both the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of Europe. It is home to the Hemicycle, the assembly chamber where Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) convene to engage in vital debates and cast votes that shape the lives of citizens across the European Union (EU).
Visitors can delve into the inner workings of the European Parliament by visiting the Hemicycle and the Parlamentarium, the official visitor’s center. Admission is free, but reservations are essential. Inside the Parlamentarium, interactive exhibits offer insights into the roles of the MEPs and the significant issues they address. While observing plenary sessions is no longer possible, visitors can explore the Hemicycle at their own pace using a multimedia guide or join a guided tour. Be prepared for airport-style security checks upon entry.
For a broader perspective, consider joining one of the free 90-minute guided walking tours available during the spring and summer months. These tours lead you around the exterior of the Parliament buildings, providing historical context and highlighting the key figures who shaped the institution. The tour commences at Station Europe in the former Place du Luxembourg train station, proceeds along the Esplanade Solidarność 1980, and culminates in Leopold Park, home to the House of European History, another free and enlightening attraction.
- Discover the History Behind Modern Medicine:
Le Musée de la Médecine (Museum of Medicine) offers a fascinating, albeit sometimes macabre, exploration of the evolution of medical practices. The museum’s exhibits trace humanity’s enduring quest for health, from ancient rituals and beliefs to the cutting-edge advancements of modern surgery.
The museum houses a remarkable collection of medical books dating back to the 16th century, alongside over 1,500 medicinal objects, considered among the oldest in Europe. The collection also features over 300 anatomical wax figures, providing detailed insights into the intricacies of the human body.
- Get Your Fill of Belgian Waffles:
The mere mention of Belgium often conjures images of enormous, generously topped waffles. However, the local tradition surrounding this iconic treat might surprise you. In Brussels, waffles are typically enjoyed with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, a far cry from the elaborate toppings often seen elsewhere.
Traditionally, Belgian waffles come in two main varieties: the light and fluffy Brussels Waffle and the thicker, crunchier Liege Waffle. They are typically enjoyed as a sweet snack at any time of day, rather than as a breakfast item. For an authentic waffle experience, head to Maison Dandoy’s tea room, where you can savor them in the local style or indulge in a variety of fruit and ice cream toppings.
- Feast on Delicious Belgian Chocolate:
Belgium’s reputation as a chocolate paradise is well-deserved. To delve into the history and artistry of this beloved treat, visit the Choco-Story Museum. Here, you can admire extraordinary chocolate sculptures and witness demonstrations of the delicate art of chocolate-making.
Once you’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the craft, embark on a chocolate-buying spree. For a truly exceptional experience, visit Pierre Marcolini, where the owner personally selects the unprocessed cocoa beans used in his creations. Alternatively, step into Mary, a chocolatier favored by the Belgian royal family since 1919, for exquisitely crafted chocolates presented in elegant, gilded gift boxes.
- Toast to Brussels’ Legendary Beer Scene:
Brussels boasts a thriving beer culture, with a multitude of breweries and beer cellars offering a wide selection of Belgian brews. Many of these establishments are conveniently located around the Grand-Place.
One notable example is A la Mort Subite, a bar renowned for its Art Nouveau interior and its eponymous beer. This historic establishment was a favorite haunt of the renowned Belgian singer-songwriter, actor, and director Jacques Brel. Another Art Deco gem is L’Archiduc, a Brussels bar in the Anneessens district, known for its jazz piano and lively atmosphere. Originally opened in 1937, L’Archiduc hosts various musical events throughout the year.
- Watch the World Go By in the Grand-Place:
The Grand-Place, one of Europe’s most magnificent squares, is a must-see destination in Brussels. This bustling heart of the city originated as a thriving market, eventually expanding into the surrounding network of streets, each named after the goods traded there.
The Grand-Place is adorned with opulent guild houses, built by wealthy merchants as headquarters for their respective trades. These ornate buildings, along with the impressive Town Hall, contribute to the square’s stunning visual appeal. Many of the guild houses now house charming cafés with outdoor terraces, making the Grand-Place an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee or beer while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
- Walk the Comic Book Route and Visit the Comics Art Museum:
Comic strip art is a prominent feature of Brussels’ cityscape. Throughout the city, you’ll encounter enormous murals adorning the sides of buildings, featuring beloved characters like Tintin, Captain Haddock, and Snowy.
The Brussels tourism board website provides maps and routes for a self-guided walking tour of the famous Comic Book Route. To further immerse yourself in the world of comics, visit the Comics Art Museum (Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée). Here, you can admire a large model of the rocket from Tintin’s "Destination Moon" adventure, as well as other iconic characters from Belgian comic strips, including Lucky Luke and the Smurfs. The museum also features permanent exhibitions detailing the development of comic strips by Hergé, Tintin’s creator, and a section dedicated to Peyo, complete with a 3D Smurf village.
- Marvel at the City’s Art Nouveau Heritage:
Brussels is celebrated for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, primarily constructed around the turn of the 20th century. Obtain a brochure from the Brussels Tourism Office to learn more about the city center’s unique architectural style. Consider a guided walking tour with ARAU, which leads you through the streets, highlighting houses with characteristic swirling balconies, elaborate doorways, and mosaic panels.
Visit the Victor Horta Museum, the former home of the architect who designed many of Brussels’ Art Nouveau buildings. The museum offers a remarkable glimpse into the life of Horta, with meticulously preserved details from door knockers to bathroom furniture.
- Enter the Surreal World of René Magritte:
René Magritte, the renowned Surrealist artist, spent much of his life in the Belgian countryside. Visit his former home in the suburb of Jette to gain insight into his daily life. Then, delve into his distinctive artistic world at the Musée René Magritte on the Mont des Arts in central Brussels. The museum features a comprehensive collection of Magritte’s works, from early advertisements to the iconic bowler hats, pipes, and dreamlike clouds that define his paintings.
- Explore Trendy Sainte-Catherine:
The Sainte-Catherine district, located near the old Bourse (stock exchange), is a trendy area known for its modern shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the Notre-Dame-aux-Riches-Claires, a Flemish baroque church. To the west, Rue Antoine Dansaert is lined with fashion-forward shops featuring cutting-edge designs. The Marché aux Poissons (old fish market) is home to notable seafood restaurants like Restaurant François, which has served lobster, crab, and other seafood since 1922.
- Enjoy Nature Just Outside the City Center:
Despite its urban landscape, Brussels is one of the greenest cities in Europe. It’s situated on the northern edge of the Forêt de Soignes (Sonian Forest), offering easy access to nature. The landscaped gardens of Bois de la Cambre, a short drive from the city center, provide a peaceful retreat.
Take a bus to Flagey and walk to the Abbaye de la Cambre, a monastery with beautiful gardens. Along the way, admire Art Nouveau buildings lining the streets and the Etangs d’Ixelles ponds. The Cistercian abbey was founded in 1201 and features 18th-century buildings housing the Belgian National Geographic Institute and an art school.
- Marvel at The Atomium:
Originally constructed for the 1958 World’s Fair, The Atomium is a landmark building located on the Heysel Plateau that now serves as a museum. The sculpture represents the molecular composition of an iron crystal, magnified 165 billion times. Enjoy 360-degree views of Brussels or take a surrealistic walk through its tubes and spheres.
- See a Whole Continent at Mini-Europe:
Mini-Europe, located at the foot of The Atomium, showcases scale models of European cities and monuments. The park takes under two hours to explore and features some of Europe’s most beautiful towns. Special events like the Spirit of Europe festival are held here throughout the year.
- Shop at Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and Jeu de Balle Flea Market:
Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is Brussels’ first indoor shopping arcade, featuring high-end shops, theaters, cafes, and unique boutiques. Designed and built between 1846 and 1847, the shopping center is divided into three sections: the King’s Gallery, the Queen’s Gallery, and the Gallery of the Princes.
The Jeu de Balle Flea Market has been open since 1919, offering a wide array of goods, including furniture, jewelry, and other items. The market is located in the Marolles, a traditionally working-class district where a distinct Flemish-based dialect is still spoken.
- Admire Modern Art at MIMA:
The Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art (MIMA) features a range of art forms, including graffiti, digital, and mixed-media. Located in the former Bellevue Breweries building overlooking the canal, MIMA hosts permanent and rotating exhibits.
- Play a Tune at the Musical Instrument Museum:
Brussels appreciates and celebrates music. Visit the Musical Instrument Museum for a look at more than 6,000 unique music makers. The museum also houses a concert hall, specialized library, museum shop, and workshop for restoring historical musical devices.
- Discover Art Deco at Villa Empain:
By the 1920s, Art Deco began influencing Brussels’ architecture. Villa Empain, designed by Swiss architect Michel Polak, is an excellent example. Open to the public and managed by the Boghossian Foundation, Villa Empain hosts workshops, discussions, and panels about modern and classic art.
- Indulge in Decadence at the Van Buuren Museum:
Located a short drive from Brussels, the Van Buuren Museum is the former home of David and Alice Van Buuren, who transformed the estate into a living museum showcasing the works of famous artists, including Van Gogh. The grounds also feature the Garden of Hearts, a sculpture and flower garden.
- Visit Notre Dame Du Sablon:
Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon (Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon) is a Late Gothic church and one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Originally a chapel for the Archer’s Guild, this 14th-century structure offers tours and remains a place of worship.
- Find the Peeing Statues:
Brussels is known for its quirky art installations, including the statues of a small boy, a small girl, and a small dog relieving themselves on the city streets. These statues, known as Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis, and Zinneke Pis, can be found throughout Brussels.
