The Top 10 Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is a city where old-world charm and modern elegance blend seamlessly. As the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels is not only a hub for politics and diplomacy but also a treasure trove of art, history, architecture, and of course, incredible food. Whether you’re exploring its cobbled lanes, sampling world-famous chocolate and beer, or marveling at its Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture, Brussels delivers a rich and rewarding experience for every traveler.
Many travelers visit Brussels as a gateway to a broader European itinerary, like the Tauck Belgium & Holland River Cruise. But make no mistake — this city is a destination worth lingering in. Below are the top 10 things to do when visiting Brussels.
Carol and I in the Grand Place, aka, the Grote Markt.
Top 10 Things to Do in Brussels
- Grand-Place (Grote Markt): This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Brussels and arguably one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Surrounded by ornate guild halls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House, it’s especially magical at sunset or during the flower carpet event held every two years.
- Manneken Pis: Just a short walk from Grand-Place, this cheeky little statue of a boy urinating is a quirky symbol of the city. Don’t be surprised to see him dressed in costumes throughout the year.
- Royal Palace of Brussels: While the Belgian royal family resides elsewhere, this neoclassical palace is used for official functions and is open to the public during select summer months.
- Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts (Royal Museums of Fine Arts): Art lovers will be enthralled by the collections here, especially works by Flemish masters such as Bruegel, Rubens, and Magritte.
- Atomium: This striking landmark, originally built for the 1958 World Expo, offers panoramic views from the top sphere and contains fascinating exhibitions about science and design.
- Delirium Café: With more than 2,000 beers on the menu, this world-famous bar is a must-visit for any beer enthusiast. It’s lively, energetic, and full of international flair.
- St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral dates back to the 13th century and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
- Sablon District: Ideal for antique shopping, upscale dining, and tasting some of the city’s best chocolates — including legendary spots like Pierre Marcolini and Wittamer.
- Comic Book Route: Belgium is the birthplace of Tintin and The Smurfs. Discover vibrant murals of beloved comic characters all across the city.
- Choco-Story Brussels: Dive into the delicious world of Belgian chocolate through interactive exhibits and tastings at this boutique chocolate museum.
KEUKENHOF GARDENS. POPULAR WITH SRRING RIVER CRUISES.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Brussels?
Brussels is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your travel preferences:
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy blooming flowers and fewer crowds. This is a great time for combining a city stay with tulip season trips, like those on a spring river cruise.
- Summer (June to August): The city buzzes with festivals and outdoor events. Expect warm weather and busy attractions.
- Fall (September to November): A quieter and often more affordable time to explore. Beautiful autumn colors make the parks and streetscapes even more photogenic.
- Winter (December to February): Visit during the holidays to experience Brussels’ enchanting Christmas market and festive decorations.
CAROL ENJOYS FRITES IN BRUSSELS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Brussels safe for tourists?
Yes, Brussels is generally a safe city for tourists. Like any major European city, it’s smart to remain aware of your surroundings and protect your belongings in crowded areas.
How many days should I spend in Brussels?
Two to three days is ideal for seeing the main highlights, but if you’re combining it with a guided tour or river cruise, even a day or two pre-tour can be highly rewarding.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, most people in the tourism and hospitality sectors speak English, though French and Dutch are the official languages.
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Brussels is very walkable, and the public transportation system (Metro, trams, and buses) is efficient and easy to use. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Can Brussels be a pre- or post-tour destination?
Absolutely! Many luxury tours and river cruises either start or end in Brussels. Consider spending a night or two here before embarking on a journey like Tauck’s Belgium & Holland river cruise.
Plan Your Trip
If you’re looking for a springtime tulip journey, a river cruise is often the best way to accomplish this. If tulips aren’t your thing, Belgium and the Netherlands are still sought-after destinations. To explore the available options from our friends at Tauck River Cruises, please CLICK HERE.
This experience was part of our recent Tauck river cruise through Belgium and Holland.
To see all of our daily highlights, reflections, and photos, visit our full cruise landing page here.
WE’VE GOT THE PERKS
For more information about Tauck or a Tauck river cruise, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
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This article was written with the aid of Perplexity AI, or ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
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