Brussels Brussels Capital, Belgium Travel Guide
Brussels boasts famous landmarks like the Grand Place, an UNESCO World Heritage site with opulent guildhalls and the Municipal Building. The quirky Manneken Pis embodies the city's spirit, while the Atomium offers panoramic views and exhibition spaces from its unique 1958 World's Fair structure.
The Royal Palace and St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral highlight historical significance and architectural splendor. Each site provides a glimpse into Brussels' rich past and culture.
Check individual museum and cultural center websites for current exhibitions and programming schedules.
A magnificent Gothic cathedral and national landmark with soaring spires and intricate stained glass.
A massive Art Deco basilica (Koekelberg Basilica) offering panoramic city views from its dome.
A monument with a "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" and eternal flame, honoring fallen Belgian soldiers.
A triumphal arch commemorating Belgium's 50th independence anniversary.
Houses an extensive collection of military history artifacts in Cinquantenaire Park.
Brussels provides numerous green spaces, offering respite from the urban hustle, with picturesque parks and scenic viewpoints to explore.
Oldest and largest city center park, adjacent to the Royal Palace. Offers formal parks and wide avenues.
Vast urban wooded park, popular for walking, jogging, cycling, and boating on its lake.
Historic garden, now a cultural center, featuring beautiful plant collections and peaceful grounds.
Offers a classic, postcard-worthy view of Brussels' cityscape, especially beautiful at sunset.
Near the Palace of Justice, this expansive square provides panoramic views over the lower city.
Scenic urban ponds and a canal with strolling/cycling paths offer pleasant areas for strolls.
Discover Jeanneke Pis & Zinneke Pis, the lesser-known "peeing" statues, and the elegant Passage des Princes / Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.
Visit Place Saint-Géry, a lively square with a cultural space. Parc de Forest / Duden Park offer tranquility and great views outside the main tourist areas.
Capture colorful Comic Strip Murals, the elegant interiors of Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, or the striking Atomium illuminated at night.
Brussels has the Canal Zone, a dynamic urban area hosting markets and events. For wildlife, Pairi Daiza (outside Brussels) provides extensive viewing. Local parks give opportunities for birdwatching and urban wildlife viewing.
Consider your interests and travel style when planning your Brussels sightseeing itinerary. Many attractions are walkable or accessible by public transport.
Group attractions by neighborhood to maximize your time. The Brussels Card provides complimentary entry to many museums and public transport, offering good value for active sightseers.
Allow for making discoveries on the fly. Brussels' charm lies in its hidden alleys, unexpected murals, and cozy cafes found off the main routes.
Brussels has many attractions that be interesting to families. Comic Strip Center, Choco-Story, and Train World offer interactive and engaging experiences for all ages.
Many public spaces and more modern attractions strive for accessibility. Older historic sites may pose challenges due to their original architecture.
Brussels transforms with the seasons, offering unique attractions and activities throughout the year.
Enjoy outdoor dining, explore parks like Parc de Bruxelles and Bois de la Cambre, and attend festivals like the Brussels Summer Festival.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage to city parks. Food and beer festivals continue, and museums offer new exhibitions.
Experience the magical Winter Wonders (Christmas Market), ice skating, and cozy evenings in traditional pubs.
Numerous walking tours, bus tours, and specialized theme tours (e.g., comic strip, Art Nouveau) are available.
Find Tours on GetYourGuideA convenient way to see major sights at your own pace, with commentary in multiple languages.
Book Hop-On Hop-OffMany museums and some city tours offer audio guides for in-depth information. City apps provide navigation and insights.
Explore Audio GuidesBrussels serves as a great base for day trips to Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, or the Ardennes region.
Discover Day TripsVisit the visit.brussels web page or their physical offices for maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations.
Visit Brussels Official SiteConsider a museum pass if you intend to visit multiple institutions. These often cover entry fees and provide extra benefits.
Brussels' cultural calendar is dynamic, with rotating exhibitions and events at major institutions throughout the year.
For a classic, postcard-worthy view of Brussels' cityscape, visit mont Saint-michel des Arts garden. It is especially beautiful at sunset.
This viewpoint frames the lower city and its old buildings against the skyline, providing a superb a great photo op.
Brussels is a generally safe city for tourists. Standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas are advisable. Accessibility varies between modern and historic sites.
Brussels has generally safe areas for tourists.
Modern buildings and public transport generally offer good accessibility. Historic sites may have stairs, cobblestones, and narrow passages.
Be aware of the important emergency numbers for immediate assistance in Brussels.
These numbers are free to call from any phone, including mobile phones.
In case of a lost passport, emergency, or other unforeseen circumstances, get in touch with your nation's's embassy or consulate.
Carry a copy of your passport and important documents, stored separately from the originals.
You can drink the tap water. Pharmacies are easily identifiable by a green cross sign.
Travel insurance is always advisable for medical emergencies or unforeseen events.
Generally safe, but be mindful of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure, especially during peak hours.
Operate on weekends. Use these for safe transport late at night. They run from the city center.
Always get your ticket stamped. Fines apply for non-validation. Purchase tickets from STIB kiosks or machines.
