Are you ready to discover the heart and soul of Belgium? Brussels, the capital city, is a vibrant European metropolis brimming with history, culture, and delicious cuisine. And we are going to list down the 15 best places to visit in Brussels.
Imagine wandering through streets filled with Gothic architecture, indulging in rich chocolate truffles, and sipping on strong Belgian beer. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairytale.
But where do you start when there are so many incredible places to visit in Brussels? Let us guide you through the top 15 must-see attractions that will leave you awe-inspired and wanting more.
From the iconic Grand Place to the impressive Atomium structure, we have curated a list that showcases both the traditional and modern sides of this beautiful city.
So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
15 Must-See Attractions
If you don’t go see the iconic Atomium and indulge in some classic waffle treats, you might as well stay at home with a can of Spam. The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most recognizable landmarks and offers stunning panoramic views from its observation deck. Once you’re done admiring the view, be sure to head back down for some delicious Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. These sweet treats are a must-try when visiting Belgium.
When it comes to experiencing local culture, Brussels has plenty to offer. One hidden gem worth checking out is the Saint-Géry district, which is known for its lively nightlife scene and unique architecture. You’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants here where you can enjoy a night out on the town while immersing yourself in the local culture.
For those who love shopping, there’s no shortage of options in Brussels. The city is home to several shopping districts, including Rue Neuve, which features a mix of high-end designer stores and affordable fashion boutiques. You’ll also find plenty of specialty shops selling everything from chocolate and beer to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Now that you’ve explored some of Brussels’ best food, local culture, hidden gems, nightlife scene, and shopping districts, let’s move on to another must-visit spot: Grand Place. This historic square is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful public spaces thanks to its ornate Gothic architecture and impressive collection of 17th-century buildings.
Grand Place
You can’t miss the stunning Grand Place, a must-see destination in Brussels. This historic square is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe. The buildings surrounding the square date back to the 17th century and feature intricate details and stunning facades.
The best time to visit Grand Place is in the evening when it’s lit up with lights, creating a magical atmosphere. If you’re hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of food and drink options available at one of the many cafes or restaurants that line the square. You can try traditional Belgian waffles or chocolate while taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling area.
If you want to learn more about Grand Place’s history and architecture, consider taking a guided tour. There are multiple tours available that will give you a deeper understanding of this iconic location. Plus, there are several nearby attractions such as the Manneken Pis statue and Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral that are worth checking out too.
As you leave Grand Place behind, make your way towards Atomium for an unforgettable experience at another one of Brussels’ top attractions.
Atomium
After admiring the beauty of Grand Place, head over to Atomium for a unique and unforgettable experience in Brussels.
This architectural marvel is a must-visit attraction that stands 102 meters tall and was built for the 1958 World Expo. The nine steel spheres are connected by escalators and offer stunning panoramic views of Brussels from different vantage points. The Atomium also features a viewpoint attraction where visitors can see the exhibition spaces that showcase various scientific discoveries and innovations.
One of its most impressive features is the light show that illuminates the spheres at night, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Additionally, if you’re feeling hungry after exploring all that Atomium has to offer, there’s even a restaurant inside one of its spheres where you can enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Brussels during special events like New Year’s Eve or National Day, then make sure to check out how the Atomium celebrates. With fireworks displays and other festivities taking place around this iconic landmark, it’s truly an unforgettable sight to behold.
The price of the Atomium ticket includes:
- the entire visit to the Atomium, including the permanent exhibition, the temporary exhibition, and the panorama.
- the entire visit to Design Museum Brussels (150m from the Atomium), including the permanent exhibition [The plastic design collection] and the temporary exhibitions.
INDIVIDUAL [<20 people]
- Senior [≥65]: €14
- Adult [18-64]: €16
- Child [>115cm-17]: €8,50
- Child [≤115cm]: €0
- Student [with card (international)]: €8,50
- A person with a disability: €8,50
- PRM: €0
After experiencing all that Atomium has to offer, don’t miss out on seeing another famous Brussels attraction – Manneken Pis!
Manneken Pis
Now, let’s talk about the quirky and beloved statue of Manneken Pis in Brussels. This iconic statue depicts a little boy peeing into a fountain and is considered one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
The history and legend surrounding Manneken Pis are shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed to have been created in the early 17th century.
One interesting fact about Manneken Pis is that it has a costume tradition. The statue is often dressed up in various outfits depending on the occasion or event that’s taking place in Brussels. These costumes range from traditional Belgian attire to superhero costumes, making for some truly unique photo opportunities.
Manneken Pis is not only a popular public art piece, but it also serves as an important symbol of Brussels’ cultural heritage. Tourists from all over the world come to see this iconic statue and take home tourist souvenirs such as miniature replicas or postcards featuring its likeness.
Location: Manneken-Pis
Address: Crossing of the Rue du Chêne and the Rue de l'Etuve - 1000 Brussels
Price and reduction: free
Telephone info: 02 279 43 50
Website event: https://www.brussel.be/manneken-pis
https://www.bruxelles.be/manneken-pisNow that you know more about Manneken Pis, let’s move on to our next destination: The Royal Palace of Brussels!
Royal Palace of Brussels
As you approach the Royal Palace of Brussels, you cannot ignore the grandeur of its architecture and historical significance. This magnificent palace is the official residence of Belgium’s royal family and is situated in the heart of Brussels.
Visiting the Royal Palace is unarguably one of the best places in Brussels to get an experience like no other. It provides a glimpse into Belgium’s rich history and culture. The palace houses numerous rooms that are open to visitors, including a throne room, mirror room, and various galleries displaying works of art. The palace gardens are also open to visitors during certain times of the year. The gardens are impeccably designed with beautifully manicured lawns, fountains, statues, and flowers.
The best time to visit the Royal Palace would be during summer when it is open to visitors for free. Guided tours are also available for those who want a more immersive experience. These tours provide insightful information about the history of this magnificent building and its connection to Belgium’s monarchy.
Location
Palais Royal
Place des Palais 1000 Brussels
Website
More information on: http://www.monarchie.beAfter exploring this historical gem, head over to the Belgian Comic Strip Center just a few blocks away.
Belgian Comic Strip Center
If you’re a fan of comics, you’ll love the Belgian Comic Strip Center located just a few blocks away from the Royal Palace in Brussels.
This museum celebrates the rich history and influence of Belgian comic strip art, which has been a beloved art form in Belgium since the early 20th century.
The center is housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building that was designed by Victor Horta, one of Brussels’ most famous architects.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibitions and events dedicated to some of Belgium’s most famous comic strip artists like Hergé (creator of Tintin), Peyo (creator of The Smurfs), and Franquin (creator of Gaston Lagaffe).
You can also enjoy interactive experiences that allow you to learn about various aspects of comic strip creation such as writing, drawing, and coloring.
The center even offers workshops for those who want to try their hand at creating their own comics.
As you exit the museum, head towards the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula where breathtaking Gothic architecture awaits you.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
Located just a short walk from the Belgian Comic Strip Center, you can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula. This cathedral is one of the most significant landmarks in Brussels due to its historical and cultural significance.
It was constructed in the 13th century and has been renovated several times over the centuries. The architectural beauty of this cathedral is truly captivating with its intricate details, tall spires, and stained glass windows that allow beautiful light to shine through.
Inside, visitors can view religious artifacts like paintings, sculptures, and tapestries that date back to various periods in history. The cathedral also plays an important role in local traditions such as hosting royal weddings and funerals.
The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a must-see when visiting Brussels due to its rich history, breathtaking architecture, religious artifacts, cultural significance, and important role in local traditions.
After exploring this magnificent landmark, head over to Mini-Europe where you can see miniature versions of famous European landmarks from across the continent without leaving Brussels behind!
Mini Europe
Get ready to experience Europe in a unique way with Mini Europe, one of the best family-friendly attractions in Brussels.
This interactive exhibit showcases miniature replicas of famous European landmarks from across the continent. From the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum and even Big Ben, you’ll feel like you’re traveling across Europe without leaving Brussels.
But Mini Europe isn’t just a fun and entertaining attraction – it’s also an educational experience for visitors of all ages. Each miniature replica is accompanied by informative plaques that provide background information on each landmark’s history and significance. It’s a great way to learn about different cultures and architectural styles while having fun at the same time.
After exploring Mini Europe, head over to Parc du Cinquantenaire – just a short walk away – where you can continue your journey through European history.
Parc du Cinquantenaire
You’ll definitely want to stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire, which is just a short walk away from Mini Europe, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Europe. Built for the 1880 National Exhibition, this park boasts stunning architecture and fountains, making it an ideal spot for picnics or simply taking a leisurely walk.
The centerpiece of the park is the triumphal arch which dates back to 1905. If you’re interested in learning more about the history behind this magnificent park, take one of their history tours. You can learn about the original purpose of the exhibition and how it shaped Belgium’s identity as a nation.
There are also several landmarks nearby that are worth checking out such as Autoworld Museum and Royal Military Museum. Throughout the year there are various events held at Parc du Cinquantenaire that celebrate local culture such as food festivals and concerts. So make sure to check if anything is happening during your visit!
Overall, this park is perfect for those who appreciate architecture and want to explore Brussels’ rich history. Once you’ve finished exploring Parc du Cinquantenaire, head over to our next destination – Brussels City Museum where you can learn even more about this fascinating city!
Brussels City Museum
Ready to dive deeper into Brussels’ history? Then don’t miss Brussels City Museum! This museum houses a collection of interactive exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city’s evolution from its humble beginnings to a bustling metropolis.
One of the highlights of the museum is its artifacts collection. Here you’ll find everything from medieval swords and armor to 18th-century paintings and sculptures. Each piece has been carefully curated and provides insights into Brussels’ past, highlighting how it has developed over time.
Additionally, the architectural design of the building itself is impressive – featuring Gothic-style arches and vaulted ceilings. To make your visit even more enjoyable, guided tours are available with knowledgeable staff who can answer any questions you may have. They will take you through each section of the museum, providing detailed explanations about all the exhibits on display.
Overall, this museum is an excellent way to learn more about Brussels’ fascinating history. As you leave Brussels City Museum feeling enriched by all that you’ve learned, head next door to explore another unique attraction: The Musical Instruments Museum.
Musical Instruments Museum
Hold onto your hats, because the Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels is going to blow your mind with its collection of over 8,000 instruments from all around the world!
The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Art Nouveau building that alone is worth the visit. But once you enter, you’ll be transported into a world of musical history that will leave you awestruck.
The museum not only displays rare instruments but also offers interactive exhibits that allow visitors to play some of them. You can even rent an audio guide to learn more about each instrument’s unique sounds and origins.
If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their instrument workshops where musicians come to demonstrate how they are played.
Once you’ve explored the Musical Instruments Museum’s wonders, head over to Autoworld just down the road for another exciting adventure.
Autoworld
After immersing yourself in musical history at the Musical Instruments Museum, Autoworld is just a short walk away and offers a fascinating look at the evolution of automobiles.
As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by vintage cars that date back to the 19th century. The collection includes more than 250 vehicles that showcase automotive history from different eras.
Automobile enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the classic car exhibitions that feature brands such as Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Bugatti. You can learn about car restoration techniques as well as discover how cars have become an integral part of society throughout the years.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on various themes related to automobiles.
As you leave Autoworld and make your way to Palais de Justice, take a moment to appreciate how far transportation has come since its inception. From horse-drawn carriages to modern-day supercars, Autoworld provides insight into how technology has shaped our world through the automobile industry.
Palais de Justice
If you’re looking to explore the historical significance of Brussels, then the Palais de Justice is a must-visit. This architectural marvel, standing tall on a hill overlooking the city, has been an integral part of Belgium’s legal system since its construction in the late 19th century.
Apart from its role as a courthouse, this iconic landmark also offers breathtaking panoramic views of Brussels. Climb up to the dome at the top for an unforgettable view that stretches as far as Atomium and beyond.
The Palais de Justice may not be at the top of most tourist maps, but it’s well worth taking time out of your schedule to visit. Whether you want to learn more about Belgium’s legal system or simply marvel at one of Brussels’ most impressive buildings, make sure you add Palais de Justice to your itinerary.
And with its central location just minutes away from other popular attractions like Sablon and Grand Place, it won’t take long before you find yourself immersed in the heart of Brussels’ rich history.
Speaking of which, next up on our list is another iconic landmark – the Basilica of the Sacred Heart!
Basilica of the Sacred Heart
As you approach the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, your eyes will be drawn to its towering presence like a beacon in the Brussels skyline. This magnificent basilica is an architectural marvel that boasts a unique blend of Art Deco and Neo-Gothic styles.
It was built in the early 20th century to commemorate King Leopold II’s golden jubilee as well as to serve as a symbol of Belgium’s devotion to Christianity. The history and religious significance of this stunning structure are awe-inspiring.
The Basilica has been an integral part of Belgian culture since its construction, drawing pilgrims from all over Europe who come to pay homage to Saint Hubertus, the patron saint of hunters. Its stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings add another layer of beauty and mystery, making it one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks.
Apart from its remarkable architecture and historical importance, the Basilica also offers visitors a breathtaking viewpoint over Brussels City. You can take an elevator up to the dome for panoramic views over the city or climb up 52 meters on foot for even more spectacular vistas.
The view from atop this beautiful building is simply unmatched – you can see all across Brussels and even catch a glimpse of some surrounding villages. With such rich art and design elements coupled with a fascinating history and religious significance, visiting The Basilica Of The Sacred Heart should be on every traveler’s bucket list while exploring Brussels.
Now that you have soaked up all this great information about one landmark site in Brussels, why not head out for some fresh air at one of their parks?
Brussels Park
To fully immerse yourself in Brussels’ beauty and leisure, you should take a stroll through Brussels Park. This park is one of the most popular destinations in the city and for good reason.
Not only does it boast beautiful scenery and relaxing spots, but it also has a rich historical significance. As you walk through Brussels Park, you’ll notice plenty of picnic areas where you can stop and enjoy a meal with friends or family.
The lush greenery provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon spent outdoors. But that’s not all – if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife during your visit! Keep an eye out for squirrels, ducks, and other critters as they go about their day. For those who prefer to stay active while enjoying nature, there are plenty of outdoor activities available at Brussels Park.
You can take a jog around the park’s perimeter or rent a bike to explore the area on two wheels. There are also tennis courts and basketball hoops available for those looking to work up a sweat. No matter what your preferred activity may be, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful park in the heart of Brussels.
Conclusion
So, you’ve now come to the end of this article and hopefully have a better idea of where to visit in Brussels. Don’t forget that there are many more places to explore and experience than just these 15!
Perhaps it’s a coincidence that each of these attractions holds so much significance and charm that they’ve become well-known landmarks. Or maybe it’s not a coincidence at all, but rather a testament to the rich history and culture of this beautiful city.
Either way, make sure you take some time to wander through the streets and discover your own hidden gems in Brussels. Happy travels!