Brussels

Brussels Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Overview

Welcome to our ultimate travel guide for Brussels! This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures, history, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring Brussels like a local.

Places to Go:

  1. Grand Place (Grote Markt): Known as the heart of Brussels, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. Surrounded by opulent guildhalls and two larger buildings, the Town Hall (Stadhuis) and the King’s House (Koninklijk Paleis), it’s truly a sight to behold.

  2. Atomium: This iconic structure was originally built for Expo ‘58 and now serves as a museum with exhibitions on science, technology, and life. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking.

  3. Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis: These famous statues are symbols of Brussels. Manneken Pis is a small bronze fountain sculpture of a urinating boy, while Jeanneke Pis, nearby, is a similar statue depicting a girl.

  4. Parc du Cinquantenaire (Jubelpark): This vast park hosts several museums, including the AutoWorld and the Museum of the Armed Forces & Military History.

  5. European Quarter: Home to many EU institutions, this area offers insight into the functioning of the European Union. Don’t miss the Berlaymont Building and the European Parliament.

Activities:

  1. Visit the Comic Strip Center: Brussels is the birthplace of the Smurfs and Tintin. This museum houses a vast collection of original comic strip artworks.

  2. Take a Beer Tasting Tour: Belgium is famous for its beer, and Brussels has over 1500 varieties! A guided tour will help you understand the brewing process and sample some local favorites.

  3. Explore the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: Open to the public only during a specific period in spring, these greenhouses are a marvel of architecture and horticulture.

Where to Eat:

  1. Le Pain Quotidien: For a healthy breakfast or brunch, this popular chain offers a variety of organic breads, pastries, and salads.

  2. Au Beurre d’Yslaire: This traditional Belgian restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes in a cozy, intimate setting.

  3. Frituur De Geit: No visit to Brussels is complete without trying its famous street food - waffles and fries! Frituur De Geit is one of the best places to indulge.

Where to Stay:

  1. Pentahotel Brussels City Centre: Centrally located, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

  2. Hotel Manos Premier: For a more luxurious stay, consider Hotel Manos Premier, which boasts a rooftop terrace with stunning city views.

Things to Know:

  1. Belgian people are known for their politeness and friendliness. Don’t be surprised if they greet you with a friendly “Bonjour” or “Goedemorgen.”

  2. Brussels is the capital of both Belgium and the European Union, making it a bilingual city where French and Dutch are spoken. English is also widely understood.

  3. The city operates on a tram/metro system (STIB-MIVB) which is convenient for getting around. Purchase a MOBIB card for unlimited travel.

Tips:

  1. Plan your visit during the spring or autumn months for mild weather and fewer crowds.

  2. Make use of the free Wi-Fi hotspots available throughout the city.

  3. Brussels is famous for its chocolate, so don’t forget to bring some back home!

Enjoy your trip to Brussels! We hope this guide helps you make the most of your stay. Safe travels!