Brussels is a city that perfectly blends the old with the new, the grand with the quirky, and the historic with the contemporary. Whether you’re here for the art, the food, or the culture, things to do in Brussels offer something for everyone. From stunning architecture and world-class museums to delicious chocolates and a thriving nightlife scene, this city has it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Brussels, get ready to be enchanted by its charming streets, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere. But with so much to see and do, how do you make the most of your visit? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a detailed list of the best things to do in Brussels, so you can experience the very best of Belgium’s capital.
Contents
- 1. Marvel at the Grand Place (Grote Markt)
- 2. Visit Manneken Pis: The Iconic Peeing Statue
- 3. Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels
- 4. Dive into Belgian Art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts
- 5. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate (The Best in the World!)
- 6. Wander Around the Atomium
- 7. Stroll Through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
- 8. Discover the European Quarter and the EU Buildings
- 9. Check Out the Belgian Comic Strip Center
- 10. Explore the Marolles Neighborhood
- 11. Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM)
- 12. Take a Day Trip to Bruges or Ghent
- Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Brussels
1. Marvel at the Grand Place (Grote Markt)
When you think of Brussels, the Grand Place is likely the first thing that comes to mind. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Europe’s most beautiful squares and an absolute must-see. Surrounded by grand guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi), it’s like stepping into a medieval fairy tale.
The Grand Place is stunning year-round, but if you happen to visit in August, you might be lucky enough to see the Flower Carpet, a biennial event where the entire square is covered in a colorful display of begonias. It’s a sight to behold!
Insider Tip: The Grand Place is even more magical at night when it’s lit up, so be sure to come back after dark for a different perspective.
2. Visit Manneken Pis: The Iconic Peeing Statue
One of Brussels’ quirkiest landmarks, Manneken Pis is a small statue of a boy peeing into a fountain. It’s weird, it’s whimsical, and it’s become a symbol of Brussels’ irreverent sense of humor. Located just a short walk from the Grand Place, this bronze statue is surprisingly popular with tourists, and you’ll often find crowds gathering around it for a quick photo op.
Fun Fact: Manneken Pis has over 900 different outfits in his wardrobe, and throughout the year, the statue gets dressed up for various occasions. It’s like a tiny fashion icon!
3. Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels is another landmark that showcases the city’s grand history. While the Belgian royal family doesn’t live here (they reside in the Castle of Laeken), the palace is still the official royal residence. During the summer months, the palace opens its doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore its opulent rooms and learn about the history of the Belgian monarchy.
Pro Tip: The Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles) lies just in front of the Royal Palace and is perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic after your visit.
4. Dive into Belgian Art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts
For art lovers, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is an absolute must. This collection of museums houses works from some of the most important Belgian and European artists. From Renaissance paintings to modern art, the museum complex includes several individual museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
Some standout pieces include works by René Magritte, Peter Paul Rubens, and James Ensor, making this one of the best places in Brussels to immerse yourself in the country’s artistic legacy.
Insider Tip: If you’re a fan of surrealism, don’t miss the Magritte Museum (part of the Royal Museums) dedicated to the famous Belgian surrealist painter.
5. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate (The Best in the World!)
Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and Brussels is home to some of the finest chocolatiers. No trip to the city would be complete without sampling some of the best Belgian chocolate. From creamy pralines to rich truffles, you’ll find chocolates to suit every taste.
A great place to start your chocolate adventure is the Chocolaterie Pierre Marcolini, known for its luxurious handcrafted chocolates, or the legendary Neuhaus store. Godiva, Lindt, and Belgian Chocolate Village are also fantastic options for a sweet treat.
Pro Tip: Take a chocolate tour! Several companies offer guided tours where you can sample chocolates and learn about the history of Belgian chocolate-making.
6. Wander Around the Atomium
If you’ve ever seen a photo of Brussels, you’ve likely seen the Atomium. This futuristic structure, built for the 1958 World Expo, is shaped like an iron atom magnified 165 billion times. Standing at 102 meters tall, the Atomium is both a fascinating architectural feat and an iconic symbol of Brussels.
Visitors can explore the spherical chambers of the Atomium and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. There’s also a museum inside, showcasing exhibitions on science, design, and the history of the Atomium itself.
Fun Fact: The Atomium was originally supposed to be a temporary structure, but its popularity made it a permanent part of Brussels’ skyline.
7. Stroll Through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a stunning, glass-covered arcade that dates back to the 19th century. It’s a beautiful place to shop, people-watch, and soak in the elegant surroundings.
Inside, you’ll find luxury boutiques, charming cafés, and beautiful bookshops. Don’t forget to stop by the famous Le Roy d’Espagne café for a traditional Belgian waffle or a cup of coffee. The galleries are also home to the Theatre des Galeries, an iconic cultural venue.
Pro Tip: The Galeries Royales is especially magical during the holiday season when the lights and decorations give it a festive atmosphere.
8. Discover the European Quarter and the EU Buildings
Brussels is often called the political heart of Europe, and for good reason—it’s home to many important European Union institutions. The European Quarter is where you’ll find the headquarters of the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the European Council.
If you’re interested in politics or European history, you can visit the Parlamentarium, an interactive museum that gives visitors an inside look at the EU and its workings. You can also take a guided tour of the European Parliamentand watch live debates when the Parliament is in session.
Fun Fact: Brussels has been called “The Capital of Europe” because it hosts several key EU institutions, and the city’s mix of international influences gives it a truly cosmopolitan vibe.
9. Check Out the Belgian Comic Strip Center
Did you know that Belgium is home to some of the world’s most famous comic characters, like Tintin and The Smurfs? The Belgian Comic Strip Center is a must-see for comic book fans. This museum is dedicated to the art of comics, showcasing the history of Belgian comics and the work of iconic Belgian cartoonists.
You’ll find exhibits dedicated to Hergé (the creator of Tintin), Peyo (the creator of the Smurfs), and many others. It’s a fun and colorful place to visit, and even if you’re not a die-hard comic fan, the exhibits are still incredibly interesting and entertaining.
10. Explore the Marolles Neighborhood
Brussels isn’t all about grand squares and famous landmarks—sometimes, the best way to experience the city is by exploring its local neighborhoods. The Marolles district is one of the most vibrant and authentic areas of Brussels. It’s known for its eclectic mix of old-world charm and bohemian flair.
Take a stroll through the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market, where you can find everything from antiques to quirky trinkets. Wander the narrow streets lined with colorful street art, and be sure to check out the cozy cafes and bistros where locals hang out.
Pro Tip: Marolles is a great spot for vintage shopping, so if you’re into second-hand clothes or unique antiques, this is your place!
11. Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM)
For something a little different, head to the Museum of Musical Instruments. Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, the museum features an extensive collection of musical instruments from all over the world. From classical string instruments to modern electric guitars, there’s something for everyone.
The best part? The museum offers a digital audio guide that lets you hear the sounds of the instruments as you explore. It’s a fun and interactive experience, and the building itself is worth the visit even if you’re not a music aficionado.
12. Take a Day Trip to Bruges or Ghent
While Brussels is full of amazing things to do, you don’t have to limit yourself to just the city. Belgium’s charming cities of Bruges and Ghent are just a short train ride away from Brussels, and both are perfect for day trips.
- Bruges is a fairytale town with canals, medieval buildings, and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Belfry Towerand the Market Square.
- Ghent offers a similar medieval charm but with a more lively, student-driven atmosphere. Visit the Gravensteen Castle and the St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Both cities are easily reachable by train and offer a beautiful glimpse into Belgium’s rich history and culture.
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Brussels
Brussels is a city of contrasts—where the medieval meets the modern, the local meets the international, and the quirky meets the sophisticated. With so many things to do, see, and eat, it’s no wonder that Brussels has become such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
From the grand Grand Place to the quirky Manneken Pis, the sophisticated art museums to the delicious chocolate shops, things to do in Brussels are sure to leave you with lasting memories. So whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, a foodie, or just someone looking to explore a vibrant European capital, Brussels will not disappoint.
Now, it’s time to pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with Belgium’s charming capital.
