What to Do in Brussels: The Best Activities You Can't Miss
Brussels, the multicultural and vibrant capital of Belgium, attracts travelers with its architectural richness, delicious gastronomy, and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious to discover an authentically charming European city, Brussels is full of must-do activities. Here’s a complete selection to help you organize your stay.
BELGIUM
4 min read
1. Admire the Grand-Place, the Historic Heart of the City
The Grand-Place is undoubtedly the most iconic site in Brussels. Surrounded by majestic guildhalls, the Gothic Town Hall, and the King's House, it forms a spectacular architectural ensemble, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take the time to stop by both day and night—the view is different at every moment of the day. In summer, it hosts numerous cultural events, including the famous flower carpet, while in winter, it’s adorned with magical lights for the holiday season.
Tip: Climb to the top of the Town Hall for a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops.
2. Explore the Atomium, a Gem of Futuristic Design
Located in the northern part of the city, the Atomium is an impressive 102-meter-tall monument, representing an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times. Built for the 1958 World Expo, it has become a strong symbol of Brussels.
Inside, several temporary and permanent exhibitions explore science, design, and the history of Expo 58. The top houses a restaurant offering an exceptional panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
Practical Tip: Combine your visit to the Atomium with a trip to the nearby Mini-Europe park, which features the most famous monuments of the continent at a 1/25th scale.
3. Marvel at the Comic Strip Murals
Brussels is the capital of European comic strips, and you can see it in its streets! About forty monumental murals decorate the city’s facades, featuring characters like Tintin, Boule and Bill, Asterix, and Philippe Geluck’s Cat.
The Comic Strip Trail is a unique activity that will appeal to both children and adults. You can explore it on foot or by bike, at your own pace, following a map available at the tourist office or through dedicated mobile apps.
A must-see: the Belgian Comic Strip Center, housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.
4. Visit the Museums of Brussels, Between Art and History
Brussels is full of diverse museums that cater to all tastes. Among the most renowned are:
• The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: A vast collection ranging from Flemish primitives to modern art.
• The Magritte Museum: Entirely dedicated to the Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte, it offers a fascinating immersion into his enigmatic world.
• Train World: An interactive museum about the history of railways in Belgium, perfect for a family visit.
There are also more unusual museums, such as the Beer Museum, the Chocolate Museum, and the Fashion and Lace Museum.
5. Taste the Delights of Belgian Cuisine
Belgian cuisine is worth the trip on its own. As you stroll through the streets of Brussels, you’ll encounter numerous stalls where you can sample local specialties:
• Fries: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, they are often served with a variety of sauces.
• Waffles: Whether from Liège (denser and caramelized) or Brussels (light and crispy), they are irresistible.
• Chocolate: Prestigious houses like Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Godiva offer artisanal pralines to enjoy on-site or to take home as gifts.
• Beer: Belgium is a paradise for beer lovers, with hundreds of varieties. Visit a typical brewery or a beer bar like Delirium Café.
6. Browse the Marolles District and Its Flea Market
The Marolles district, located south of the city center, is known for its popular and bohemian atmosphere.
Every morning, Place du Jeu de Balle hosts one of the liveliest flea markets in Belgium. You can find just about anything: vintage items, old books, retro dishes, curiosities…
After your treasure hunt, stop by one of the many cafés in the area to soak in the local vibe. Don’t miss Rue Haute and Rue Blaes, famous for their antique shops and decor boutiques.
7. Relax at the Cinquantenaire Park
Located in the European Quarter, Cinquantenaire Park is a vast green space perfect for resting or having a picnic after a day of sightseeing.
Its monumental triumphal arch is reminiscent of those in Berlin or Paris, and the buildings surrounding it house several interesting museums, such as Autoworld (vintage cars) and the Army Museum.
The park is ideal for a leisurely stroll, sports, or simply admiring the surrounding neoclassical architecture.
Brussels is full of fascinating activities, offering cultural, historical, and gastronomic discoveries.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious, the Belgian capital has something to captivate every visitor. Enjoy its green spaces, remarkable architecture, rich museums, and must-try culinary specialties for an unforgettable experience.
Brussels awaits you with its many charms and unique atmosphere.