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Bucket List: Top Tourist Spots and Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and one of the leading European financial cities. Each corner of Brussels is packed with a fascinating history and spectacular architecture. Brussels is the headquarters of the European Union, a fact that is responsible for its business and bureaucratic nature. On the side, Brussels is a laid-back city with fascinating monuments such as Manneken Pis and museums such as The Comic Strip Center. Brussels has something for everyone, and here are the 15 best things to do in the City.
Visit the Old England Building
Old England Building houses a massive musical museum with over 2000 musical instruments. On top of the building is a café that provides stunning views of the City. In addition, the Old England Building also has a spectacular façade that plays a vital role in attracting visitors.
Admire Le Botanique
This Brussels historical garden dates back to the 19th century, and it still attracts a large number of visitors daily. The surrounding gardens are still pristine and offer a perfect change of scenery from the City.
Enjoy laughter at Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is a statue of a young boy urinating; thus, the name Manneken Pis translates to “little man pee.” The statue is a hotspot for tourists in Brussels, and it has been that way since the 17th century.
Learn art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts
This museum has a variety of collections of modern and ancient art, including the Fall of Icarus and paintings by Peter Rubens, Anthony Van Dyke, and Hans Memling. Set aside a day to tour the museum to have your art sensation filed.
See the Palais Royal, aka Royal Palace of Brussels
Palais Royal is the official residence of the Belgium royal family, and it features impressive décor, such as a ceiling covered in beetle wings.
Learn crafts at Fashion & Lace Museum
The museum concept originated in Italy, and it is one of the oldest lace crafts in Brussels. At some point in the City’s history, Lace was among the major industries.
Visit Notre Dame Du Sablon / Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon Church
Notre Dame Du Sablon is a 14th-century cathedral used by Archer’s Guild as a chapel.
Draw inspirations from Grand Place
Located at the center of Brussels, Grand Place can be missed if you don’t pay attention. At the heart of Grand Place is Brussels City hall which dates back to the 15th century.
Picnic at the Parc Du Cinquantenaire
The Parc Du Cinquantenaire is a beautiful place to hang around, take in the striking architecture, and admire the vast collection of over 35,000 artifacts.
Book a beer tour of Brussels
The beer tours are meant to allow beer aficionados to experience some of the best pubs in Brussels, learn about beer history, and see how it is made.
Visit the Café Belga
Café Belga is a popular spot for locals, tourists, and even ex-pats. It is located in the middle of Place Flagey. You can experience excellent views as you enjoy affordable Belgium café food.
Appreciate the history of Brussels
Many people don’t know that Brussels is a pioneer of comic books. Many museums, such as The Belgium Comic Strip Centre, are dedicated to comics.
Enjoy Brussels nightlife
The most famous club in Brussels is the Madame Mustache, with waiters donned in sailors’ attire.
Learn about Brussels in the Broodhuis / Museum of the City of Brussels
Broodhuis used to be the harbor of Brussels bread market for many centuries, and now a museum focusing on educating about the City’s history.
Marvel at the Atomium
Atomium was made in 1958 and stands 100 meters tall at Heysel Park, west Brussels.
Brussels Travel and Tour Packages
Brussels Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Day Pass and Trip by Rail from London
One of the best ways to explore a country is to have a general itinerary, or the lack thereof. Go on an unguided trip to the grand City of Brussels for a day and visit its many wonders at the pace you want and without the constraints you’d typically get from being on guided tours!
Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels in Brussels, Belgium, via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the City.
Also, see:
- Top 5 Things to do in Krakow
- France beyond Paris: 10 incredible destinations you have never heard of
- 24 Hours in Paris on Christmas Day
- Ooh La La! 3 Tips for Visiting Paris
- Lower Silesia Travel Guide
