Brussels is the capital of Belgium and also the main center for the European Union. At the heart of the city is the Grand-Place, a beautiful square surrounded by 17th-century guild houses filled with shops and cafes. The Gothic-style Town Hall with its tall bell tower stands out in the square. Nearby, the Maison du Roi holds the Brussels City Museum, which even displays outfits for the famous Manneken Pis statue. Colorful street murals decorate the city, and the Belgian Comic Strip Center celebrates comic art. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts feature artworks from old masters to modern times, while the Magritte Museum showcases the surrealist’s famous pieces. The European Quarter is home to the European Parliament, natural history exhibits, green parks, and art-nouveau buildings. One of Brussels’ top attractions is the Atomium, built for the 1958 World’s Fair, offering amazing city views. Just outside the city, Beersel Castle shows off medieval towers, a moat, and a drawbridge.
places to visit in Brussels
Grand Place
Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is the main square in the center of Brussels. It’s surrounded by fancy guild houses, the Town Hall, and the King’s House (which holds the Brussels City Museum). It’s one of the top tourist spots in the city and is often called one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Because of its history and beauty, it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is a small bronze fountain statue of a little boy peeing into a basin. It’s located in the center of Brussels and was created in the early 1600s. The statue you see today is a replica from 1965—the original is kept safe in a museum. This quirky statue is a symbol of Brussels’ fun-loving and free-spirited people.
Atomium
The Atomium is a famous building in Brussels built for the 1958 World’s Fair. It looks like a giant model of an atom and has big metal spheres connected by tubes. Inside, there are exhibits, events, and even a restaurant at the top with amazing city views. It’s one of Brussels’ most unique and popular attractions.
Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe is a fun park near the Atomium that features tiny versions of famous buildings from all over Europe. These models are made to scale, and some even move—like trains, windmills, and erupting volcanoes. With over 350 buildings from 80 cities, it’s a great place to explore Europe in just a few hours.
Autoworld
Autoworld is a museum full of vintage cars, located in Cinquantenaire Park. It has over 250 classic vehicles from Europe and America, dating from the late 1800s to the 1990s. The museum includes Belgian-made cars and some that were used by the royal family. Car lovers will really enjoy this collection.
Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice in Brussels is the biggest court building in Belgium and one of the largest built in the 1800s. It stands in the Marolles district on Poelaert Square, which offers one of the best views of the city. It’s a huge and impressive building that plays an important role in Belgian law.
Halle Gate
The Halle Gate is the last surviving gate from Brussels’ old city walls. This medieval building now serves as a museum, showing the city’s history and how it was once defended. Inside, you can see historic armor, weapons, and old maps. It’s a great place to learn about Brussels’ past.
Royal Museums of Fine Arts
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium hold a wide range of art, from old masters to modern pieces. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 15th century to today. Next to it is the Magritte Museum, which focuses on the surrealist artist René Magritte and his strange, dreamlike artworks.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Brussels is where the King of Belgium does his official work. It’s located in the city center, but the royal family doesn’t live there—they stay at the Royal Castle of Laeken. The palace is used for ceremonies, state events, and visits from foreign leaders. Some rooms are open to the public in the summer.
Sablon
Sablon is a stylish neighborhood in Brussels known for its fancy chocolate shops, cafes, and art galleries. The area is home to the beautiful Notre-Dame du Sablon Church and a weekend antique market. It’s also close to museums like the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and the Magritte Museum, making it a cultural hotspot.
Best Time to Visit Brussels
The ideal time to visit Brussels is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to October). The weather is pleasant, with fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures. These seasons are perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor cafes. Hotel rates are also more affordable compared to summer. It’s a great time to explore the city’s culture and charm.
