30 Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the vibrant heart of Belgium and administrative center of the European Union, offers visitors a delightful mix of historical grandeur, quirky charm, and culinary excellence. Planning your trip means exploring its magnificent squares, seeking out the best Belgian waffles Brussels serves up hot, discovering world-class art, finding the top chocolate shops Brussels is famous for, and enjoying the many fantastic free things to do in Brussels, like admiring street art or relaxing in parks. This bilingual city captivates with its unique blend of French and Flemish influences.
From stunning architecture to comic strip adventures and delectable treats, Brussels presents a diverse array of activities. This guide features 30 distinct experiences, combining iconic landmarks with essential local flavors and cultural insights. Use it to craft your perfect Brussels itinerary and immerse yourself in the spirit of this dynamic European capital.
Iconic Landmarks and Squares
Stand in awe at the Grand-Place (Grote Markt), Brussels’ breathtaking central square, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by opulent guildhalls. Visit at different times of day to appreciate its beauty, especially when illuminated at night.
Admire the impressive Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville) dominating one side of the Grand-Place with its intricate Gothic architecture and towering spire. Its asymmetrical design adds to its unique character.
Visit the King’s House (Maison du Roi / Broodhuis) opposite the Town Hall on the Grand-Place, now home to the Brussels City Museum. Discover the history of the city and see the extensive wardrobe of costumes for Manneken Pis inside.
See the famous Manneken Pis, the small bronze statue of a urinating boy, perhaps Brussels’ most beloved and quirky symbol. Check if he’s wearing one of his hundreds of costumes during your visit.
Seek out Jeanneke Pis, the lesser-known female counterpart to Manneken Pis, located down a small alley near Rue des Bouchers. This playful statue adds to the city’s humorous side.
Find Zinneke Pis, the canine member of the pis family, a bronze statue of a dog urinating against a bollard in the Chartreux area. Spotting all three statues makes for a fun scavenger hunt.
Marvel at the Atomium, a unique structure built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Ascend to the top sphere for panoramic views over the city and explore the exhibition spaces inside.
Explore Mini-Europe park located at the foot of the Atomium, featuring miniature replicas of famous European landmarks. It offers a quick, fun tour around the continent’s highlights.
See the impressive façade of the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians, located opposite Brussels Park. It is sometimes open to the public for tours during the summer months.
Relax in the Parc de Bruxelles (Warandepark), the city’s largest urban public park situated between the Royal Palace and the Belgian Parliament. Enjoy its fountains, shaded walkways, and central location.
Walk through Cinquantenaire Park, home to triumphal arches, museums (like the Royal Military Museum and Autoworld), and expansive lawns. It was built to commemorate 50 years of Belgian independence.
Admire the impressive twin towers of the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels’ main Roman Catholic cathedral. Explore its stunning Brabantine Gothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Museums Culture and Art
Explore the vast collections of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, encompassing several museums including the Old Masters Museum and the popular Magritte Museum, dedicated to the Belgian surrealist artist. Allow ample time to explore these extensive collections.
Visit the stunning Art Nouveau building housing the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) near Mont des Arts. Discover a fascinating collection of instruments from around the world, using audio guides to hear them played.
Dive into the world of Tintin, the Smurfs, and other famous characters at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta. Learn about the history and art of Belgian comics.
Follow the Comic Book Route throughout the city, discovering large colorful murals depicting scenes and characters from famous Belgian comic strips painted on building walls. It’s a fun and free way to explore different neighborhoods.
Learn about the European Union at the Parlamentarium, the visitors’ center of the European Parliament. Engage with interactive exhibits explaining the workings and history of the EU institutions (free entry).
Enjoy the city views from Mont des Arts, an elevated garden complex connecting the lower town with the Royal Quarter. It offers a beautiful perspective towards the Town Hall spire, especially at sunset.
Food and Drink Delights
Indulge in authentic Belgian Waffles, trying both the lighter Brussels waffle and the denser, sweeter Liège waffle. Find them fresh from street vendors or dedicated waffle shops, often served with various toppings.
Taste classic Belgian Fries (Frites), typically served in a paper cone with a dollop of mayonnaise or other sauces. Seek out popular ‘friteries’ or ‘fritkots’ for the best, double-fried experience.
Sample exquisite Belgian Chocolate from renowned chocolatiers found throughout the city, especially around the Sablon area or Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Treat yourself to pralines, truffles, or decadent hot chocolate.
Explore the incredible variety of Belgian Beers by visiting a traditional pub (estaminet) or a specialized beer bar. Try famous styles like Trappist ales, lambics, or strong golden ales, but drink responsibly.
Savor a pot of Moules-frites (Mussels with Fries), a national dish particularly popular between September and February. Enjoy mussels steamed in various broths, commonly white wine or celery.
Visit an authentic Brussels pub, known locally as an estaminet, for a traditional atmosphere. Enjoy local beers and simple snacks in these cozy, often historic establishments.
Explore the Saint-Géry area, known for its covered market hall (Halles Saint-Géry) now housing exhibitions and a bar, surrounded by numerous lively cafes and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for evening drinks.
Visit the historic Cantillon Brewery, one of the last traditional lambic breweries in Brussels still using spontaneous fermentation. Take a self-guided tour to see the unique brewing process and enjoy a tasting.
Markets Neighborhoods and Unique Finds
Browse antiques, art, and collectibles at the weekend antique market on Place du Grand Sablon. Explore the surrounding elegant neighborhood filled with chocolatiers and galleries.
Hunt for bargains and unique finds at the daily Marolles Flea Market (Jeu de Balle), Brussels’ most famous flea market. Arrive early for the best selection of furniture, vintage items, and curiosities.
Stroll through the elegant 19th-century Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, one of Europe’s oldest covered shopping arcades. Admire the architecture while browsing luxury shops, theaters, and cafes.
Explore the vibrant stalls at the sprawling Midi Market (Marché du Midi) held on Sundays near the Brussels-South railway station. Find everything from fresh produce and clothing to household goods and street food in a multicultural atmosphere.
