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What makes Brussels special?
- Not only is Brussels the fascinating capital of Belgium, it’s also the administrative capital of the entire European Union.
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What can visitors expect in Brussels?
- Gorgeous, historic, and yet unbelievably hip, Brussels is filled with hidden architectural treasures and multicultural activities that proudly display their mixed and vivid history.
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How is Brussels' cityscape described?
- The cityscape itself is absolutely majestic while still being able to swing from rundown to quirky to magical in one street.
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What is at the core of Brussels?
- At its core, however, Brussels is a medieval city with incomparable art nouveau facades filling the streets and luxuriously grand squares scattered throughout the city.
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1. Grand Place
Grand Place, or Grote Markt in Dutch, is the central square of Brussels and arguably the main tourist attraction of the city. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Place was once a swampy sandbank sitting between two brooks. The start of its beautification can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when wooden houses were built around the market. When the 14th century rolled around, wealthy merchants began building stone mansions in the area, turning it from a dank and forgotten street to a bustling commercial area. When the town hall was established there in 1402, royalty started visiting the square, which resulted in the beautiful tourist attraction that visitors and locals alike know and love today. Whether you’re there to explore the markets or to sit at a café and people watch, the sights and sounds are bound to please and amaze.
Grand Place, Brussels Main Square, Belgium, Brussels
2. The Atomium
Situated at the head of Heyser Park stands a landmark of Brussels – The Atomium. Standing at 335 feet tall, the Atomium is a glistening model of an atom designed by André Waterkeyn. While what stands out most about the structure at first glance is its glaring enormity, the Atomium shines and draws visitors from near and far due to its gorgeous chrome and steel construction. The structure was meant to symbolize the coming of the Atomic Age and features nine steel spheres, each 18 meters in diameter. Step inside the Atomium to enjoy curated exhibits within the tubes that connect each sphere. Don’t forget to enjoy the speedy 23-second elevator ride to the top of the Atomium and soak in the view while there. You can even grab a beer and a snack to keep you company.
The Atomium, Boulevard du Centenaire, Laeken, Brussels, Belgium
3. Manneken-Pis
Known by many names like the Petit Julien, Manneken-Pis is likely to be the city’s most photographed statue. Standing at only 60 centimeters tall, this small statue and fountain piece was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy as a representation of a major character in Brussel’s folklore. So, what makes this statue such a tourist attraction? Well, let the name of the statue clue you in. The Manneken-Pis depicts a small cherub-like boy in the act of urination. Even more jarring? The water that spouts from the statue’s penis is aimed directly at the viewer. While the statue is typically depicted naked, there are special occasions where he is dressed up! Visitors can view the impressive wardrobe of Petit Julien at the Maison du Roi.
Manneken-Pis, Rue de l’Etuve corner Rue Chêne, Brussels, Belgium 1000, Phone: +32-22-79-43-50
4. Mini-Europe
Right next door to the famous Atomium sits a 25-hectare theme park called Mini-Europe . One of the top destinations for leisure and recreation, Mini-Europe is home to several amusing attractions such as the 27-cinema compound called the Kinepolis. Other attractions in Mini-Europe include the all-around IMAX screen, the planetarium, several fantastic eateries in The Village, and even a water park known as L’Oceade. If there’s one thing at Mini-Europe that you shouldn’t miss, however, it’s their pride and joy: A collection of mini replicas of famous buildings throughout Europe. The display includes replicas of gondolas, the TGV train as it steams towards Paris, and even the distinctive chimes of Big Ben.
Mini-Europe, Boulevard du Centenaire, Laeken, Brussels, Belgium, Phone: +32-24-78-05-50
5. Musees Royaux des Beaux Arts
There is no attraction in Belgium quite as elegant and enchanting as the Musees Royaux des Beaux Arts. Better known as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, this attraction actually comprises of two separate museums: The Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Noteworthy for being founded by Napoleon, the Museum of Ancient Art features the glorious work of Flanders, while the Museum of Modern Art houses over 600 years’ worth of fine art. From sculptures to paintings to drawings, there’s no shortage of spectacular works of art to behold between these two incredible and must-see museums.
Musees Royaux des Beaux Arts , 9 Rue du Musée, Museumstraat 9 – 1000, Brussels, Belgium, Phone: +32-25-08-32-11
6. Royal Palace of Brussels
Known locally as the Palais Royal, the Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of Belgium’s royal family. Since the royal family today actually resides at Laeken, this stunning royal palace is now open to tourists in the summer months. As such, it’s an incredible attraction to add to your itinerary while exploring the city of Brussels. One of the things to look forward to at the Royal Palace is a special ceiling decorated completely with the wings of beetles. Although this sounds a little odd, the decoration forms a gorgeous mosaic unlike any seen before. The interiors are also lavishly and extravagantly decorated, as one would expect of a royal residence.
Royal Palace of Brussels, 16 Rue Brederode B-1000, Brussels, Belgium, Phone: +32-25-51-20-20
7. Parc du Cinquantenaire
Exuding beauty and serenity since the reign of Leopold II, the Parc du Cinquantenaire is a national landmark in Brussels and one of the best places to visit for a relaxing afternoon at the park. Built to commemorate the 55th anniversary of Belgian independence, the park’s name literally means “Park of the Fiftieth Anniversary.” The whole park forms a pentagon, much like the inner and outer rings of the city, and houses tons of hidden gems for visitors to discover. While the fountain and the archways are the obvious main attractions, guests ought to make some time to walk around and through the park to enjoy all that its beautiful greenery has to offer.
Parc du Cinquantenaire, Avenue de la Renaissance, Brussels, Belgium 1000, Phone: +32-25-13-89-40
8. MIMA
Sitting on the banks of the Brussels Canal, the MIMA , or the Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art, is a great museum to visit in the city for people who love contemporary art. The museum is home to a lovely permanent collection that features the works of artists like the cinematographer Nicolas Karakatsanis and artist Daniel Johnston. Works of Mon Colonel and Spit can also be found in this popular museum, which was founded in 2016. Be amazed by pieces like Stan Be Dead or the kaleidoscopic works of Maya Hayuk. There’s also no shortage of fantastic pieces that come through in temporary exhibits, so whatever time of the year you visit, you’re bound to be in for a treat.
MIMA, 39 Quai du Hainaut, Brussels, Belgium, Phone: +34-72-61-03-51
9. Museum of Natural Sciences
One of the top museums in Brussels, the Museum of Natural Sciences, or the Musée des Sciences Naturalles as it is known locally, is thought provoking and highly interactive. While most people have come to know natural science museums as being filled with galleries of stuffed animals, this museum is far from the usual sort. For example, one of the highlights of the museum is a computer simulation that recreates the burying of dinosaurs in a mudslide. For younger visitors, there are sandboxes that stimulate their minds by allowing them to search for dinosaur bones. However, the highlight of the museum is, without a doubt, an exhibit that features 10-meter-tall dinosaurs called iguanodons, which were originally discovered in 1878.
Museum of Natural Sciences, 29 Rue Vautier, Brussels, Belgium, Phone: +32-26-27-42-11
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. | Hotel Amigo – A luxurious and centrally located hotel with easy access to the Grand Place. | Explore the Grand Place – Admire the stunning architecture of the city’s historic central square. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and sightseeing. | The Dominican – A chic and modern hotel located in the heart of Brussels near key attractions. | Visit Atomium – A unique architectural wonder offering panoramic views of the city. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and fewer tourists. | Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo – Elegant accommodations with exceptional service in a prime location. | Take a canal cruise in the city – Enjoy scenic views of Brussels from the water while exploring its canals. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold temperatures, ideal for cozy indoor activities and holiday markets. | Warwick Brussels – A luxurious stay near the Grand Place with festive holiday events. | Visit the Brussels Christmas Market – Experience the holiday magic with lights, shopping, and seasonal treats. |
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Grand Place
- 2. The Atomium
- 3. Manneken-Pis
- 4. Mini-Europe
- 5. Musees Royaux des Beaux Arts
- 6. Royal Palace of Brussels
- 7. Parc du Cinquantenaire
- 8. MIMA
- 9. Museum of Natural Sciences