Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a destination full of history, culture and culinary delights.
From its stunning architecture to the vibrant atmosphere of its squares and museums, the city has much to offer any traveller.
You can explore Brussels in two days and then take day trips or multi-day excursions to nearby areas such as Ghent, Antwerp, Amsterdam, etc.
Getting around Brussels
You can get from the airport to the city centre by bus in about half an hour. You can pay directly with your card on the bus and not take out a ticket. The journey costs €8.40.
To get around Brussels you can use the Metro, Tram and buses. If you buy tickets at the machines, a one-way ticket costs €2.80, while a 24-hour ticket costs €8.90.
Sightseeing in Brussels
Grand Place
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and one of the world’s most impressive monuments.
It is surrounded by beautifully decorated buildings, including the City Hall and the former guild houses. At night, the lighting of the square creates a magical atmosphere.
Manneken-Pis
The small bronze statue of a boy peeing is perhaps the most famous symbol of Brussels.
Despite its size, it has a huge reputation and is often dressed up in various costumes on special occasions.
Mont des Arts
A hill with a unique view of the historic city centre, Mont des Arts is home to important cultural institutions such as the Royal Library and the Museum of Modern Art.
It is a great place for photography and relaxation.
La Pharmacie Anglaise
For a special experience, visit La Pharmacie Anglaise, a unique bar with a themed décor reminiscent of old pharmacies.
It offers excellent cocktails in an atmosphere that evokes another era.
Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the most impressive buildings in the city.
Although not used as a residence by the royal family, it is open to the public during the summer months, offering a glimpse of royal luxury.
Triumphal Arch and the Fifty Years Park
The Triumphal Arch dominates the Fifty Years Park, one of the city’s most beautiful parks.
Museums such as the Motor Museum and the Royal Military Museum are also located here.
Place Royale and Brussels Cathedral
Place Royale is a historic square, dominated by the church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg.
Nearby is the Brussels Cathedral, dedicated to Saints Michael and Wodoulis, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Banksy Museum
Contemporary art lovers will be delighted with the Banksy Museum, home to reproductions of famous works by the mysterious street artist.
Atomium
The Atomium is perhaps the most iconic monument in Brussels.
Built for Expo 1958, this metallic, mole-shaped sculpture offers a panoramic view of the city and hosts exhibitions.
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is one of the largest churches in the world.
It combines Art Deco with neo-Gothic architecture and offers excellent views from its dome.
Food in Brussels
Brussels is a destination to try plenty of street food. You’ll find countless shops selling French fries in a cone with various sauces (must-try).
Of course, you can’t go to Brussels and skip the waffles. And for waffles you’ll find hundreds of shops selling handmade waffles with various toppings, but the ones I liked the most were the waffles sold by the little vendors with canteens outside the parks.
In fact, my favorite were the plain Liège waffles, with no toppings, in which the sugar was caramelized on the dough. Really delicious.
Also if you love chocolates and beers Belgium is the place for you.
Belgian beers are world famous, with over 1,500 different labels, from the monastic Trappist and sweet and sour Lambic to the fruity Kriek.
On the other hand, Belgian chocolate is considered one of the best in the world, thanks to its high quality and unique production techniques.
Shops such as Neuhaus, Godiva, Pierre Marcolini and Leonidas offer delicious choices, from pralines to chocolates with special flavour combinations and chocolate truffles.
If you want to see more about my trip in Brussels check my profile on Instagram.
