About Brussels

Why Brussels belongs on your bucket list

Brussels combines historical splendour with vibrant urban energy. The combination of old facades, medieval squares and modern flair makes the city an ideal destination for anyone who loves culture, architecture and a bit of city life.
From charming alleyways to stately shopping streets: Brussels oozes history yet contemporary atmosphere. Every corner tells a story, which is best discovered on the spot.

Sights that make Brussels special

Brussels' Grand Place remains a highlight for any traveller. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the square is surrounded by guild houses with richly decorated facades. A nice detail is that the city hall is built asymmetrically, something you only really notice when standing in the middle of the square. In turn, the nearby Royal Saint Hubert Galleries are an elegant contrast with their glass roof and chic boutiques.

The Atomium, built for the 1958 World's Fair, attracts attention from afar. Inside the spheres you will find exhibitions and panoramic views over the city. Not far away is Mini Europe, where you can see European monuments on a scale. It is a place especially popular with families. For those who enjoy walking, the route between the Central Station and the upper town is particularly pleasant, especially around Mont des Arts where you have beautiful views. As they say, the perseverer wins, and this is especially true if you take the stairs to the top.

• The Sablon district with chocolatiers and antique shops, ideal for a quiet afternoon.
• The Royal Palace open to visitors in summer.
• The comic strip trail with murals scattered around the city.
• The European Quarter with the Parliamentarium, where interactive exhibitions offer a look behind the scenes.
• The Warande Park, perfect for a relaxing break between sights.

Brussels is a city where it's easy to get carried away. Many attractions are within walking distance and public transport gets you everywhere smoothly, which is handy when you prefer to save your energy for museums and culinary stops. A slight tip for travellers: plan some extra time for unexpected discoveries, as they often come your way here.

Another city in Belgium with plenty of history worth visiting is Bruges.