30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Brussels | Jan 2025

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What activities can I do in Brussels?

There are plenty of things to do in Brussels, Belgium. Here are some suggestions: 1. Explore the Grand Place: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the central square of Brussels and is surrounded by beautiful architecture. It's a must-visit spot in the city. 2. Visit the Atomium: This iconic structure was built for the 1958 World Expo and represents a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. You can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city. 3. Indulge in Belgian chocolate: Belgium is famous for its delicious chocolates, so make sure to visit some of the renowned chocolate shops and try a variety of flavors. 4. Discover the Belgian beer culture: Belgium is known for its wide range of beer styles. Visit a traditional beer bar or brewery to taste some of the best Belgian beers. 5. Take a stroll in the European Quarter: Brussels is the capital of the European Union, and the European Quarter is home to several EU institutions. You can visit the European Parliament, European Commission, and other institutions. 6. Visit the Royal Palace: The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the Belgian King and is open for public visits during the summer months. Explore the stunning rooms and gardens. 7. Explore the comic strip heritage: Brussels has a rich comic strip history, and you can visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center or take a walk around the city to see the famous comic strip murals. 8. Try Belgian waffles and fries: Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic Belgian waffles and fries. You can find them in various street stalls and restaurants throughout the city. 9. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts: Brussels has several excellent museums, and the Museum of Fine Arts is one of the most prominent. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. 10. Take a day trip to Bruges or Ghent: Both Bruges and Ghent are picturesque cities located within a short distance from Brussels. You can take a day trip to explore their medieval architecture, canals, and charming atmosphere. These are just a few suggestions, but there are many more things to do and see in Brussels.

When is the best time to travel to Brussels?

The best time to travel to Brussels, Belgium is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The city is also less crowded compared to the summer months, making it easier to explore the attractions and enjoy the local culture. In spring, you can witness the blooming of beautiful flowers in parks and gardens, such as the famous Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the city's parks, creating a picturesque atmosphere. If you prefer to visit during the summer (July and August), be prepared for higher temperatures and increased tourist crowds. However, this is also the time when various festivals and events take place, such as the Brussels Summer Festival and the Flower Carpet in the Grand Place. Winter (December to February) in Brussels can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). However, this is also the time when the city is beautifully decorated for the Christmas season, with festive markets and ice-skating rinks. If you don't mind the colder weather and want to experience the holiday spirit, visiting Brussels in winter can be a magical experience. Ultimately, the best time to travel to Brussels depends on your personal preferences and interests. Consider the weather, crowds, and events happening during different seasons to choose the ideal time for your visit.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Brussels

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a vibrant and multicultural destination with a rich and diverse cultural scene. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Brussels: 1. Art and Museums: Brussels is home to numerous world-class museums and art galleries. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium house an extensive collection of Flemish and Belgian art, including works by famous painters like Pieter Bruegel the Elder and René Magritte. The Magritte Museum is dedicated to the renowned Belgian surrealist artist. Additionally, the BOZAR (Palais des Beaux-Arts) hosts a wide range of exhibitions and cultural events. 2. Architecture: Brussels boasts a mix of architectural styles, reflecting its historical and cultural heritage. The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque architecture and is a must-visit attraction. Art Nouveau enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the works of renowned architect Victor Horta, including the Horta Museum. 3. Food and Drink: Belgian cuisine is renowned for its delicious specialties. Brussels is famous for its waffles, chocolate, and beer. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional Belgian dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonnade flamande (beef stew), and speculoos (spiced cookies). There are also numerous cozy cafes and brasseries where you can enjoy a relaxing meal or a refreshing Belgian beer. 4. Festivals and Events: Brussels hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The Ommegang, a historical procession dating back to the 16th century, takes place in July and showcases medieval traditions. The Brussels Summer Festival features live music performances and cultural activities. The Winter Wonders event during the Christmas season transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland with Christmas markets and ice skating rinks. 5. Comic Strip Culture: Brussels is known as the comic strip capital of the world, and it pays homage to this art form through various means. The Belgian Comic Strip Center showcases the history and evolution of comics, including the famous Belgian characters Tintin and the Smurfs. You can also explore the city's streets decorated with colorful murals depicting comic book characters. 6. Multiculturalism: Brussels is a multicultural city with a diverse population, making it an exciting and cosmopolitan destination. You can experience different cultures through the city's neighborhoods, such as the vibrant Matongé district with its African influences or the Turkish and Moroccan communities in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode. Overall, Brussels offers a unique blend of history, art, cuisine, and multiculturalism, making it a fascinating travel destination for culture enthusiasts.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Brussels

When visiting Brussels, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs that you can consider: 1. Belgian Chocolates: Belgium is famous for its delicious chocolates, so make sure to buy some high-quality Belgian chocolates as souvenirs. You can find a wide variety of flavors and brands in specialty chocolate shops like Neuhaus, Leonidas, or Pierre Marcolini. 2. Belgian Beer: Belgium is known for its rich beer culture, so buying some Belgian beer as a souvenir is a great idea. Look for traditional Trappist beers like Chimay or Orval, or try some popular Belgian beer brands like Duvel or Leffe. 3. Lace Products: Belgium is renowned for its delicate lacework. Consider purchasing lace products such as tablecloths, doilies, or lace accessories as a unique souvenir. The best place to find lace products is at the Belgian Lace Centre in Bruges. 4. Comic Books: Belgium has a strong comic book culture, with famous characters like Tintin and The Smurfs originating from here. Visit comic book shops like Brüsel or Forbidden Zone to find a wide range of comic books, graphic novels, and related merchandise. 5. Waffles: Belgian waffles are a must-try when in Brussels, and you can also take them home as a tasty souvenir. Look for pre-packaged waffles or waffle mix to recreate the authentic Belgian taste. 6. Speculoos: Speculoos are traditional Belgian spiced biscuits that are often served with coffee. These cookies make for a delicious souvenir, and you can find them in many grocery stores or specialty shops in Brussels. 7. Artisanal Crafts: Brussels is home to many talented artisans who create unique handmade crafts. Consider buying pottery, glassware, jewelry, or other artisanal products as souvenirs to support local artists and bring back something truly special. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country to ensure that you can bring back any food or alcohol items.

Brussels travel review

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. From its stunning architecture to its world-class museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting destination. One of the highlights of visiting Brussels is exploring its historic center, known as the Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with its ornate guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall taking center stage. The Grand Place is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants, where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere while enjoying some delicious Belgian cuisine. Speaking of cuisine, Brussels is a food lover's paradise. The city is famous for its waffles, chocolate, and beer. Indulge in a warm and crispy Belgian waffle topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, or treat yourself to some mouthwatering Belgian chocolates from one of the many artisanal chocolate shops. And of course, no visit to Brussels would be complete without sampling some of the world-renowned Belgian beer. From Trappist ales to fruity lambics, there is a beer for every palate. For art enthusiasts, Brussels has a wealth of museums and galleries to explore. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium house an impressive collection of artworks, including masterpieces by Flemish painters such as Rubens and Bruegel. The Magritte Museum is a must-visit for fans of the surrealist artist René Magritte, showcasing his iconic paintings and thought-provoking works. Beyond its cultural offerings, Brussels also boasts beautiful parks and green spaces. The Parc du Cinquantenaire is a vast park with stunning gardens, fountains, and a triumphal arch. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on a sunny day. The nearby Bois de la Cambre is another popular spot for nature lovers, offering peaceful walking trails and a picturesque lake. Additionally, Brussels is a hub of European politics, hosting numerous institutions such as the European Parliament and the European Commission. Visitors can take a guided tour of the European Parliament to gain insight into the workings of the European Union and its decision-making processes. Finally, Brussels is also known for its lively events and festivals. The city hosts the famous Brussels Jazz Festival, where music lovers can enjoy performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world. During the holiday season, the Winter Wonders festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland, with a giant Christmas market, ice-skating rink, and dazzling light displays. In conclusion, Brussels is a captivating city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you're wandering through the charming streets of the Grand Place, indulging in the city's delectable food and drink, or immersing yourself in its vibrant art scene, Brussels is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Brussels, Belgium's captivating capital.