BRUSSELS, BELGIUM- Things to do and see.
In this blog I am trying to cover everything you need to know to travel to this place. Main headings are marked in red and all links are marked in Blue. This blog cover
The brief history.
When to travel.
Places to visit.
How to reach.
Public transport .
Food you should .
where to stay.
Money saving tips.
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and one of the most important cities in Europe, has a rich and diverse history.
HISTORY
Early History:
Brussels’ history dates back to the Roman period when it was a small settlement. By 9th Century it was part of the Frankish Empire.By the 13th century, it became an important town under the rule of the Dukes of Brabant. Brussels grew in wealth and importance due to its strategic location along trade routes. By 14th Century: Brussels became the capital of the Duchy of Brabant, which was a powerful and wealthy region within the Holy Roman Empire.
Habsburg and Spanish Rule:
- 16th Century: The Habsburg family took control of the region, and Brussels became a significant city within the Habsburg Netherlands. During this time, it saw political instability, including religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants.
- 17th Century: The Spanish Habsburgs ruled Brussels, but the city was caught up in the Eighty Years’ War, as the Spanish struggled to control the Dutch revolts. Brussels was briefly under siege in 1695 by the French.
19th Century:
- Belgian Independence (1830): Brussels became the capital of the newly independent Kingdom of Belgium in 1830 after a revolution against Dutch rule. The city saw rapid modernization during the 19th century, with large-scale industrialization, urban expansion, and the creation of major landmarks like the Royal Palace.
- Economic Growth: Brussels grew as a hub for international trade, culture, and political power in the 19th century, becoming a symbol of Belgian national identity.
20th Century:
- World Wars: Brussels was occupied by Germany during both World War I and World War II. The city suffered damage during these wars, especially in WWII, when German forces left much of the city in ruins.
- Post-War Recovery: After WWII, Brussels rapidly rebuilt itself and emerged as a center of international diplomacy. In 1958, the city hosted the World’s Fair (Expo 58), marking Belgium’s postwar recovery.
- European Union Capital: Brussels became increasingly important in the second half of the 20th century as the headquarters for the European Union (EU) and NATO, further solidifying its role in global politics.
Modern Day:
Today, Brussels is not only Belgium’s political and administrative capital but also a major European and international center. It hosts several international institutions, such as the EU Parliament, the European Commission, and NATO headquarters. The city’s rich history and culture make it a key player on the world stage, blending medieval architecture with modern EU politics.
Brussels continues to be a vibrant, multicultural city, known for its historical sites, art, cuisine (especially chocolates and beer), and as a hub of European diplomacy.
WHEN TO TRAVEL.
- Best for mild weather and fewer crowds: Late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to October).
- Best for vibrant cultural experiences and festivals: Summer (June to August).
- Best for winter charm and holiday atmosphere: December
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).
- Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to summer, making it a good time to explore popular attractions.
- Highlights: Flowers in bloom (e.g., in the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken), fewer crowds, and pleasant outdoor activities.
2. Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Warm, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
- Crowds: This is the peak tourist season, so Brussels can be crowded.
- Highlights: Festivals (like the Brussels Summer Festival), outdoor events, and extended daylight hours. This is also when many cultural events and open-air concerts take place.
3. Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
- Crowds: Fewer tourists than summer, making it a more relaxed time to visit.
- Highlights: Fall colors in parks, fewer crowds, and cultural events (like the Brussels Art Days).
4. Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold, with temperatures around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Snow is possible but not common.
- Crowds: Fewer tourists, except for the Christmas markets.
- Highlights: The Brussels Christmas Market (Winter Wonders), festive lights, and cozy winter atmosphere. It’s also a great time for enjoying Belgian hot chocolate and waffles.
PLACES TO VISIT
1. Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is a famous statue located in Brussels, Belgium, at the intersection of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue des Grands Carmes. The statue is of a little boy urinating into a fountain and has become a well-known symbol of the city. It stands about 61 cm (24 inches) tall and has a long history, with the current bronze statue dating back to 1619. Over the years, Manneken Pis has been dressed in various costumes, and there are even occasions when the statue is dressed up in different outfits for special events or celebrations.
If you’re in Brussels, it’s definitely a fun landmark to visit, although it’s often surrounded by crowds of tourists. The area around it also offers plenty of charming streets and places to explore.
2. Grand Place (Grote Markt)
Grand Place (Grote Markt) is the central square of Brussels, Belgium, located at the heart of the city. This iconic square is surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi), all showcasing a stunning example of 17th-century architecture. The square is known for its beautiful and intricate design, and it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
The Grand Place hosts several annual events, including the famous Flower Carpet event, which features a large, colorful carpet made of begonias. The square is a popular tourist destination and an essential part of Brussels’ cultural and historical heritage.
If you’re visiting, be sure to explore its stunning surroundings, enjoy the cafes, and take in the grandeur of the architecture.
3.Modern Art: The museum also displays more recent works from the 19th and 20th centuries.
The Groeninge Museum is located on the Jan van Eyck Square in Bruges and is a must-visit for art lovers interested in Flemish art history.
3.The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert (Galerie du Roi)
The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert (Galerie du Roi) is a beautiful, historic shopping arcade located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. It’s situated at Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Brussels, and is one of the city’s most famous landmarks, known for its glass roof, elegant architecture, and high-end shops.
The gallery, built in the 19th century, is a wonderful place to explore, offering a range of boutiques, cafes, and chocolate shops. It’s a key spot for both locals and tourists, serving as a connection between the Grand Place and the surrounding areas.
4.The “Mount of the Arts”
The “Mount of the Arts” (also known as Mont des Arts) is a prominent cultural and historical area located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. It offers a stunning view of the city and is home to a variety of museums, gardens, and notable buildings.
Key highlights of the Mont des Arts area include:
Royal Library of Belgium: This is one of the largest libraries in the country and a major research institution.
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM): Housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, this museum showcases an extensive collection of musical instruments from around the world.
The Square: A cultural venue for concerts, events, and exhibitions. It’s also located in this area.
Brussels Park: Located nearby, it’s a large and historic public park perfect for a stroll.
The Mont des Arts Garden: A beautifully landscaped area with wide stairways, fountains, and sculptures, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike
5.The Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels (Palais Royal de Bruxelles) is located in the heart of the Belgian capital. It’s situated on Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium. The palace serves as the official residence of the Belgian king, though it is primarily used for ceremonial purposes. The Royal Palace is an impressive neoclassical building that is open to the public during the summer months when the Belgian royal family is not in residence.
It is also surrounded by the Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles), offering a beautiful and historical atmosphere to explore.
The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the Belgian royal family, although they don’t live there on a daily basis. The palace is used for state affairs, ceremonial functions, and official events. The building was originally constructed in the 18th century and underwent several renovations, especially in the 19th century when it became the royal residence. The exterior is an elegant example of neoclassical architecture, while the interior is lavishly decorated with intricate artwork, furniture, and historical artifacts.
Key Features
Architecture: The palace is a beautiful blend of neoclassical and baroque styles, with a grand façade and impressive interior spaces. The design of the palace has been influenced by various architects over the years, including the famous Louis Montoyer.
Royal Gardens and Brussels Park: The palace is surrounded by the Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles), a large, lush green area where visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll or relax on a sunny day. The park is full of statues, fountains, and beautiful tree-lined paths.
Palace Interiors: Although the palace itself is not open to the public year-round, it is open to visitors during the summer months, typically in July and August. Visitors can tour the grand rooms like the Throne Room, the Ballrooms, and the Royal Chapel, and admire the rich history preserved within.
Public Access and Visits
The Royal Palace is not the private home of the royal family; the family lives at Castle of Laeken just outside Brussels. However, the Royal Palace opens its doors to the public for free in the summer (usually from mid-July to mid-August) when the royal family is on vacation.
Royal Palace’s Changing of the Guard: Every day at 12:30 PM, there is a changing of the guard ceremony in front of the Royal Palace. It’s a popular event, and many tourists gather to watch the highly-ceremonial process.
6.The Magritte Museum
The Magritte Museum, located at Pl. Royale 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium, is dedicated to the works of the famous Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. It houses an impressive collection of his paintings, sketches, and other artworks, providing a deep dive into his unique style and thought-provoking visual narratives. The museum is situated in the heart of Brussels, making it a must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in surrealism.
If you’re planning to visit, you can expect to see some of Magritte’s most iconic pieces like The Son of Man, The Lovers, and The False Mirror. The museum also offers temporary exhibitions and various events related to art and surrealism.
7.Petit Sablon Square (or Place du Petit Sablon)
Petit Sablon Square (or Place du Petit Sablon) is a charming square located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. It’s known for its beauty and historical significance, often considered one of the most picturesque squares in the city.
Here are a few highlights about the square:
Design and Aesthetic: The square is renowned for its serene atmosphere, surrounded by elegant iron railings and statues. At the center, you’ll find a lovely fountain with a statue of the Archangel Michael triumphing over the devil, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Statues: One of the most iconic features of Petit Sablon is the 48 statues that line the square, each representing a different guild of Brussels from the 16th century. These statues reflect the city’s medieval and Renaissance heritage, offering a glimpse into the guild system that once played a crucial role in Brussels’ economy and culture.
Location: It’s situated in the Sablon district, a historically wealthy and artistic area. The neighborhood is also known for its art galleries, antique shops, and chocolate shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Surrounding Area: The square is close to other notable sites, such as the Notre-Dame du Sablon, a stunning Gothic church, and the Royal Palace of Brussels, which adds to the cultural and historical significance of the area.
8.The Atomium
The Atomium is a famous landmark in Brussels, Belgium. Located at Place de l’Atomium 1, 1020 Brussels, this iconic structure was built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair (Expo 58). It represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and stands at 102 meters tall. The Atomium has nine spherical chambers connected by tubes, and visitors can explore exhibitions and enjoy panoramic views of Brussels from the top sphere.
It’s a great spot for both sightseeing and learning about Belgium’s post-WWII era, scientific progress, and architectural innovation. If you’re nearby, the surrounding area also features the Brussels Expo, which hosts various events.
The Atomium is a unique and fascinating landmark with several interesting things to see and do. Here’s what you can explore when you visit:
The Spheres: The Atomium consists of nine spheres, and while the outer ones are mainly for structure, some of the spheres have exhibits and panoramic views. You can explore several of them:
- Exhibitions: Inside some of the spheres, you’ll find rotating exhibitions on science, art, history, and technology.
- The top sphere: The highest sphere offers incredible 360-degree panoramic views of Brussels. It’s the perfect spot to take in the city’s skyline and surrounding areas.
The Exhibition Spaces: The Atomium regularly hosts exhibitions, many related to science, art, architecture, and Belgium’s cultural heritage. The exhibits change frequently, so it’s worth checking what’s on during your visit.
The Skywalk: Located at the top sphere, the Skywalk gives you a direct view of Brussels from above, with glass floors that allow you to look straight down.
The Tube Galleries: The tubes that connect the spheres are accessible and feature art installations and displays. These tubes offer a different perspective of the interior and surrounding area as you move between spheres.
Interactive Exhibits: For those interested in science and technology, there are interactive displays that explain the history of the Atomium, the structure’s design, and its symbolism of progress and modernity.
The Atomium’s Surroundings: The Atomium is part of a larger park area, and you can take a walk around to admire the structure from different angles. You can also visit nearby attractions like Mini-Europe, a miniature park showcasing landmarks from across Europe, and Brussels Expo, a large exhibition complex.
Café & Shop: There’s a café at the Atomium where you can relax with a coffee and enjoy the view, and a souvenir shop where you can find Atomium-themed items.
9.Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe is a miniature park located in Brussels, Belgium, where visitors can explore replicas of famous European landmarks in a 1:25 scale. It’s situated at Avenue du Football 1, 1020 Bruxelles, close to the Atomium. The park features over 350 models of famous European monuments and offers an engaging experience of Europe’s architectural diversity.
Famous Landmarks in Miniature:
- Eiffel Tower (Paris, France): One of the park’s most iconic replicas, standing at 3.3 meters tall.
- The Colosseum (Rome, Italy): A detailed replica that gives insight into the grandeur of ancient Rome.
- Big Ben (London, UK): You’ll find the famous clock tower right in the park, looking just like the real one.
- The Acropolis (Athens, Greece): A miniature version of this ancient Greek site, complete with replicas of the Parthenon.
- The Windmills of Kinderdijk (Netherlands): Another famous Dutch landmark that is meticulously recreated.
10.The European Quarter
The European Quarter in Brussels is a key district in the city, primarily known for being the center of European Union (EU) institutions. It is home to a number of important EU buildings and organizations, making it one of the most significant political areas in Europe. Here are some key features of the European Quarter:
EU Institutions:
- European Parliament: One of the most iconic landmarks in the area. The Parliament building, located on Rue Wiertz, hosts the legislative body of the EU, where Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) meet and make decisions on EU policies.
- European Commission: The European Commission, located in the Berlaymont building, is the executive branch of the EU, responsible for proposing legislation and managing EU policies.
- European Council: The building housing the European Council (where EU leaders meet) is also located in this area.
Parks and Green Spaces:
- The European Quarter is home to several parks and green spaces, including Le Square Ambiorix and Cinquantenaire Park, providing a blend of nature within an urban setting. Cinquantenaire Park is particularly famous for its impressive arch and museums.
Architecture:
- The architecture in the European Quarter is diverse, ranging from modern glass buildings (such as the Berlaymont building) to older, more classic structures. The area is designed to reflect Brussels’ status as the capital of Europe.
International Atmosphere:
- The area is bustling with diplomats, EU officials, and professionals working in European affairs. It is a cosmopolitan district with a mix of nationalities and languages, making it a hub of international politics and culture.
Public Transport:
- The European Quarter is well-connected by public transport, including metro lines (e.g., the Schuman, Maelbeek, and Trône stations), buses, and trams. The Schuman Square is a key transport hub for those working in the European institutions.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Events:
- There are many international restaurants, cafés, and bars catering to the multinational community, offering a range of European and international cuisine. The area also hosts various cultural events, exhibitions, and EU-related meetings.
11.The Royal Military Museum
The Royal Military Museum in Brussels, Belgium, is one of the most important museums dedicated to military history in the country. It is located in the Cinquantenaire Park and is part of the Royal Museums of Art and History. The museum showcases an extensive collection related to Belgium’s military history, including displays of weapons, uniforms, and various other artifacts spanning from the medieval period to modern times.
Key Features of the Royal Military Museum:
Aircraft Collection: One of the highlights of the museum is its impressive collection of aircraft, including military planes from World War I, World War II, and the Cold War.
Military Vehicles: The museum has a vast collection of tanks, armored vehicles, and other military transport used throughout history.
Exhibitions: The museum offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions that cover Belgium’s military history, the history of warfare in general, and the impact of military technology on the world.
Historical Artifacts: Visitors can explore uniforms, weapons, medals, and various personal items from different periods in Belgian and global military history.
The Museum’s Architecture: The museum building itself is grand, set within the Cinquantenaire complex, which was originally built for the 1880 Brussels World’s Fair. The museum’s architecture is a significant part of the experience.
12.The Autoworld Museum
The Autoworld Museum in Brussels is a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of automobiles. Located in the Cinquantenaire Park, this museum showcases over 250 classic cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, ranging from the early 20th century to more modern models. The collection is housed in a stunning historic building that adds to the overall charm of the visit.
Some highlights of the Autoworld Museum include:
Vintage Cars: The museum’s collection features iconic cars from the 1900s, including models by brands like Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Bugatti, and Mercedes-Benz.
Themed Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts themed exhibitions that focus on specific car manufacturers, automotive innovations, or significant periods in automotive history.
Restoration Workshop: Visitors can also see a restoration workshop where classic cars are carefully restored to their former glory.
Interactive Displays: For a more engaging experience, there are interactive exhibits that allow you to learn about the engineering, design, and cultural impact of different vehicles.
If you’re a car enthusiast or just interested in history, the Autoworld Museum is a great place to explore
13.Saint-Gilles
Saint-Gilles is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in Brussels, Belgium. It’s known for its eclectic mix of architecture, from beautiful Art Deco buildings to modern constructions. Saint-Gilles is located just south of Brussels’ city center, making it a popular area for both locals and visitors.
Here are a few key features of Saint-Gilles:
Architectural Charm: The area has a rich architectural history, with some iconic buildings like the Flagey building and the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture scattered throughout. It also has some striking modern designs.
Cultural Diversity: Saint-Gilles is known for its multicultural vibe. It’s home to a mix of people from various backgrounds, which is reflected in its restaurants, markets, and festivals.
Trendy Area: Over the past decade, Saint-Gilles has become a trendy district for young professionals and creatives. It’s packed with cafes, vintage shops, art galleries, and restaurants offering diverse cuisine.
Parc de Forest (Bois de la Cambre): Although technically outside the boundaries of Saint-Gilles, this large park is nearby and offers a lovely green space for walking, relaxing, or enjoying outdoor activities.
Cultural Events: The neighborhood hosts various cultural events, including local festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. The neighborhood also has several community centers and cultural venues.
Public Transport: Saint-Gilles is well-connected by public transport, with easy access to buses, trams, and metro stations, making it easy to travel around Brussels.
14.Nightlife in Place Saint-Géry
Place Saint-Géry, located in the heart of Brussels, is a lively and vibrant area known for its eclectic nightlife. Whether you’re into cozy bars, trendy clubs, or unique venues, there’s something for everyone. Here’s an overview of the nightlife scene in the area:
Bars and Pubs:
- Le Poechenellekelder: A classic Belgian bar known for its wide selection of Belgian beers. It’s got a cozy, traditional atmosphere and a quirky interior, making it a popular stop for locals and tourists alike.
- La Fleur en Papier Doré: A historical bar with a bohemian vibe, once frequented by famous artists like René Magritte. It has a unique charm, serving both drinks and light meals in a relaxed setting.
- Le Café Belga: A casual and iconic place, often bustling with people. It’s perfect for enjoying drinks with friends on the terrace, particularly in the summer months.
Nightclubs:
- Fuse: One of Brussels’ most famous nightclubs, known for its electronic music scene. It’s a must-visit for fans of techno and house music, with world-renowned DJs frequently spinning here.
- Café d’Anvers: Though a little further out, this club is one of Brussels’ legendary nightspots, often attracting fans of deep house and techno music.
Cultural Venues and Events:
- Theatre of Saint-Géry: Though not a nightclub, this historic building hosts various events, including performances and exhibitions, contributing to the cultural vibe of the area.
- Open-air Events: In warmer months, you might find outdoor events, street performances, and pop-up bars around the square, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Unique Experiences:
- Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert: Although more known for shopping, this area near Place Saint-Géry also offers chic cafés and spots to unwind with a drink while admiring the beautiful architecture.
- Brussels Beer Project: For beer enthusiasts, this brewery offers innovative brews in a stylish setting.
Overall, the nightlife in Place Saint-Géry is diverse, with plenty of options for every taste. It blends a mixture of classic Belgian drinking spots with more modern, trendy venues that cater to various musical and cultural tastes.
HOW TO REACH BRUSSELS
By Air (Flying to Brussels Airport)
- Brussels Airport (BRU) is the main international airport, located about 12 kilometers northeast of the city center.
- From the airport, you can reach the city center via:
- Train: The train station is located in the airport basement, and trains to the city center (Brussels Central Station) run frequently (approximately 15-20 minutes).
- Bus: Various buses connect the airport to different parts of the city.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal and can take you directly to your destination.
By Train
- Brussels has several major train stations: Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Brussels North.
- If you’re traveling from other European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, London, or Cologne, high-speed trains like Thalys, Eurostar, or ICE are popular options. You can book tickets through their respective websites.
- Thalys connects Brussels with Paris, Amsterdam, and other major cities.
- Eurostar connects Brussels to London.
- ICE connects Brussels to various German cities.
- You can reach Brussels by train from other Belgian cities easily as well, with frequent connections from cities like Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges.
Try website like Trainline
By Bus
- Long-distance buses like FlixBus and Eurolines operate routes to Brussels from many European cities.
- These buses typically stop at Brussels North Station, Brussels Midi Station, or other locations depending on the provider.
- Buses are generally cheaper but take longer than trains.
Use the link Flix bus
By Car
- If you’re driving, Brussels is well-connected by major highways, including the E40, E19, and E411. You can easily drive from neighboring countries like France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg.
- Parking in Brussels can be limited and expensive, especially in the city center, so it’s worth looking up parking options in advance.
By Ferry
- If you are traveling from the UK, you could take a ferry to Calais or Dunkirk and then drive or take a train to Brussels.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Many of Brussels’ main attractions are within walkable distance from each other, especially in the city center.
Brussels has an extensive and well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city. The main public transport options are:
1. Trams
- Operated by STIB/MIVB, Brussels has a comprehensive tram network that connects various neighborhoods and key locations in the city.
- Trams are frequent, and they run both during the day and late into the night (though frequency decreases at night).
2. Buses
- Brussels also has a large network of buses operated by STIB/MIVB. They reach areas that are not directly served by the metro or trams.
- Bus stops are generally well-marked, and the schedules are available at stops and online.
3. Metro
- The Brussels Metro is another key part of the public transport network, with four main lines (1, 2, 5, 6) that cover the city center and some surrounding districts.
- The metro is fast and efficient for traveling through the city.
4. Train
- The SNCB/NMBS (Belgian National Railway Company) operates local trains that connect Brussels with nearby towns and cities. These trains are useful if you’re traveling to suburban areas or other parts of Belgium.
5. Biking
- Brussels is becoming increasingly bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing services like Villo! (a public bike-sharing system). You can rent bikes for short trips within the city.
6. Tickets & Travel Cards
- You can purchase individual tickets for each transport type (bus, tram, metro) via machines at stations or through the STIB/MIVB app. There are also multi-ride passes and travel cards for tourists or regular commuters that offer a discount.
- The most common ticket is the single-journey ticket, but you can also get day passes or a 10-ride pass for convenience.
7. Night Transport
- After regular public transport stops, Noctis buses take over for night-time travel on some routes. They are marked with a yellow “N” sign and run from midnight until early morning.
8. Integration with other services
- Brussels also integrates well with other transport services, like shared electric scooters and cars for short-term rentals, which are popular for getting around in the city center.
The STIB/MIVB app or website provides live schedules, route maps, and ticket purchasing options, making it easy for both locals and tourists to navigate the city’s public transport network.
FOOD YOU SHOULD TRY
Brussels is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of iconic dishes and treats to try. Here are some must-try foods in Brussels:
- Belgian Waffles
Brussels waffles (or “gaufres”) are a famous treat. They’re lighter and crispier than other types, typically served with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, fruit, or syrup. You’ll find them everywhere, especially around tourist spots. - Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries)
A classic Belgian dish, Moules-Frites consists of mussels cooked in various broths (often white wine, garlic, and herbs) served with crispy fries. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s popular across Belgium. - Belgian Chocolate
Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and Brussels is home to some of the best chocolatiers. Don’t miss out on visiting places like Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, or Godiva for luxurious chocolate pralines, truffles, and bars. - Belgian Fries (Frites)
Belgian fries are famous for being extra crispy and often served with a variety of dipping sauces. They’re typically thicker than French fries and are usually served in a paper cone, often with mayonnaise, though you’ll find many other sauce options. - Stoofvlees (Flemish Beef Stew)
This is a hearty, rich beef stew made with beer (often Belgian ale), onions, and spices. It’s slow-cooked to perfection and often served with fries or bread to soak up the delicious sauce. - Speculoos
A spiced shortbread cookie, speculoos has a unique flavor thanks to ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s often enjoyed with coffee or used as a base for ice cream and other desserts. - Waterzooi
A creamy stew originally from Ghent, waterzooi is made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream. It’s comfort food at its best, rich and flavorful, often served with bread. - Belgian Beer
Belgium is famous for its beer culture, with hundreds of different styles, including Trappist beers, lambics, and saisons. Try a Leffe, Chimay, or a Duvel—or visit a local beer bar to sample a variety of brews. - Endives au Gratin (Chicons au Gratin)
A traditional Belgian dish made with Belgian endive, wrapped in ham, covered with a creamy cheese sauce, and baked. It’s comforting and savory. - Paling in’t Groen (Eel in the Green)
This is a regional specialty, often associated with Brussels. It’s eel cooked in a green herb sauce, and while it’s not as common as some other dishes, it’s worth seeking out if you’re a fan of seafood.
If you’re visiting Brussels, be sure to indulge in some (or all!) of these local specialties
WHERE TO STAY
For Budget Travelers:
- Sleep Well Youth Hostel
Located near the central train station, this is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. It offers clean and simple rooms, along with a social, friendly atmosphere. - The Urban City Hostel
A budget-friendly place with modern amenities. It’s a bit outside the center, but public transport connections make it easy to reach the main attractions.
Try websites like AIRBNB, HOSTEL WORLD to save money.
1. For Luxury and Style:
- The Dominican
A chic boutique hotel located in the heart of the city, near the Grand Place and the Belgian Royal Theatre. It’s perfect for those who want a luxurious experience in the city center. - Hotel Amigo
A 5-star hotel that offers world-class service, located close to the Grand Place. It’s a historic hotel, known for its high-end service and opulent rooms.
2. For Central and Convenient Access:
- Ibis Brussels off Grand Place
This budget-friendly hotel is just a short walk from the Grand Place and provides great value, ideal for travelers who want to be near the main attractions. - The Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place
A comfortable, well-located hotel that’s perfect for tourists who want to be close to major sights like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and museums.
MONEY SAVING TIPS.
- Buy Food from Supermarkets or Markets. Flemish Stew or Mussels: Traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees(Flemish beef stew) or moules-frites(mussels with fries) can be enjoyed at more reasonable prices in non-touristy eateries.
- Stay in Budget Accommodations (Hostels, Airbnb or Guesthouses)
- Drink Like a Local
- Visit Free Attraction
- Use Public Transportatio
- Avoid Currency Exchange Fees
- If you’re traveling from outside the Eurozone, use an ATM with low fees to withdraw money in euros, or use a no-foreign transaction fee credit card
- Take Advantage of Discounted Tickets. Look for student discounts or special offers on attractions. Many museums and activities offer reduced entry fees for students, seniors, and children. Always check for combo tickets for multiple attractions, as they can save you money.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.