6 Of The Best Things To Do In Brussels

What to do in Brussels?

From indulging in waffles and chocolate to exploring the historic sights, the capital of Belgium has something for every kind of traveller. The city is fascinating and unique, with a vibe that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Wandering the streets of the city you will come across local attractions, cafes, and boutiques but there are so many hidden gems dotted around that the only way to truly see the sights is with the help of a Brussels city break guide. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Brussels.

1.     Visit the Grand Place

The Grand Place is one of the most beautiful and historic squares in Europe, and it should be at the top of your list of things to see in Brussels. The ornate Gothic and Baroque buildings that surround the square are truly stunning, and the square itself is often used for events and festivals. It is hidden back from the main Brussels City Centre but is an absolute must-see on a visit. In the centre of Grand Place you’ll find the Century city hall dating back to the 15^th century, with some of the most beautiful architecture in the country.

It’s no surprise this tops the list of the best things to do in Brussels, and it’s a sight to behold no matter what time of year you visit. In summer, you can enjoy local flower markets and al fresco dining. If you're lucky enough to be in Brussels during the Christmas season, the Grand Place is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a giant Christmas tree and an ice-skating rink.

Address: Grote Markt, 1000 Brussel, Belgium

2.     Check out the Atomium

The Atomium is one of the most iconic landmarks in Brussels, and it's definitely worth a visit during your trip. This enormous steel structure was built for the 1958 World's Fair and was designed to represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. You can take the glass topped lift to the top of the Atomium for some truly stunning views of Brussels, or you can explore the various exhibitions and displays that are housed inside.

You will find The Atonium in the west of the city, within Heysel Park. We recommend spending the morning exploring the park and local area, before heading into The Atonium and enjoying the views across the city.

Address: Pl. de l'Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium

3.     Indulge in Belgian cuisine

No visit to Brussels would be complete without indulging in some of the city's famous cuisine. Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer are all must-tries, and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and chocolatiers throughout the city where you can sample them all. If you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try some of the city's more unusual specialties, such as mussels and fries or stoemp, a traditional Belgian mashed potato dish.

We recommend heading to Café Belga in Place Flagey for a true Brussels foodie experience. This café is widely popular with tourists and locals and can get very busy in peak season, and it is clear to see why. The combination of buzzing atmosphere and affordable Belgian dishes attracts the crowds, and that just adds to the charm. If youre a fan of fries, head to nearby Frit Flagey which serves up some of the best fries in all of Brussels.

Address: Café Belga, Pl. Eugène Flagey 18, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium

4.     Explore the art at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts is a must-visit for any art lover, and it's one of the best things to see in Brussels. The museum is home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, ranging from Flemish masters like Rubens and Van Dyck to more contemporary artists. The museum is spread across several different buildings, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. There are six museums in total, each with their own unique collections to see. With over 20,000 pieces of art, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts is the most visited museum in all of Belgium.

Address: Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

5.     Take a stroll in the Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is one of the most beautiful parks in Brussels, and it's a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to several museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, and it's also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the park's annual fireworks display, which takes place on Belgium's National Day. This wonderful park dates back to the reign of Leopold II, and you can enjoy the rich history while wandering the gardens or relaxing with a picnic on the grass.

Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

6.     Sample the local beer

Belgium is famous for its beer, and there's no better place to sample it than in Brussels. There are hundreds of different types of beer to try, ranging from light and refreshing pilsners to rich and complex trappist ales. Some of the most popular Belgian beers include Duvel, Chimay, and Leffe, but there are plenty of other lesser-known brews that are just as delicious. If you're not sure where to start, head to one of the city's many bars or beer cafes and ask for a recommendation. There are plenty of beer tours available and these are one of the best things to do in Brussels if you a partial to good pint.

Address: A La Becasse, Rue de Tabora 11, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

So there you have it – 6 of the best things to do in Brussels. Whether you're visiting for a day or a week, there's plenty to see and do in this beautiful and historic city. So why not book your Brussels city break today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer? easyHotel Brussels City Centre puts you right in the heart of the action, just an 8 minute walk from The Grand Place.