Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. As the seat of the European Union, Brussels is a hub of international activity, attracting visitors from all over the world. With its rich heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious cuisine, Brussels is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Europe.
Why Visit Brussels?
Brussels is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern attractions, making it an ideal destination for tourists. From the stunning Grand Place to the world-renowned Atomium, there’s no shortage of iconic landmarks to explore. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, featuring numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues, is another major draw. And let’s not forget the food – Brussels is famous for its chocolate, waffles, and beer, making it a culinary paradise.
Best Cities to Visit in Brussels
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best cities to visit in Brussels, exploring the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make this city so special. From the historic heart of Brussels to the trendy neighborhoods and beyond, we’ll show you the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Brussels.
So, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a unique European experience, Brussels has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover the best cities to visit in Brussels!
Best Cities To Visit In Brussels
Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architecture. With its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere, Brussels is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the best of Europe. Here are some of the best cities to visit in Brussels.
Historic City Centre
The historic city centre of Brussels is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The city’s main square, the Grand Place, is a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with ornate buildings and intricate stone carvings. The surrounding streets are filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Grand Place
The Grand Place is the heart of Brussels’ historic city centre, and is a must-visit attraction. The square is surrounded by ornate buildings, including the City Hall and the King’s House, which are adorned with intricate stone carvings and ornate facades. Visitors can take a guided tour of the square and its buildings, or simply sit and enjoy the atmosphere.
Museums
Brussels is home to a number of world-class museums, including the Magritte Museum, which is dedicated to the works of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte. The Fine Arts Museum is another must-visit, with its impressive collection of European and Belgian art. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is also worth a visit, with its extensive collection of art and artifacts.
Markets
Brussels is famous for its markets, and visitors can find everything from fresh produce to antiques and souvenirs. The Grand Sablon Market is a popular destination, with its stalls selling everything from jewelry to handmade crafts. The Grote Markt is another must-visit, with its bustling atmosphere and wide range of goods on offer.
Neighbourhoods
Brussels is divided into a number of charming neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character. The Marolles district is known for its antique shops and flea markets, while the Saint-Gilles district is famous for its art nouveau architecture and trendy bars and restaurants. The Saint-Josse-ten-Noode district is another must-visit, with its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of international restaurants.
Day Trips
Brussels is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Visitors can take day trips to the picturesque town of Bruges, the medieval city of Ghent, or the scenic countryside of Flanders. The city is also close to the French border, making it easy to visit the historic city of Lille or the beautiful town of Arras.
Food and Drink
Brussels is famous for its cuisine, and visitors can find everything from traditional Belgian dishes like waffles and fries to international cuisine and fine dining. The city is also home to a number of excellent coffee shops and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious pastry. Beer lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with a wide range of Belgian beers on offer. (See Also: Best Europe Cities To Visit In August)
Accommodation
Brussels has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Visitors can choose from a number of centrally located hotels, or opt for a more budget-friendly option in one of the city’s many charming neighbourhoods. There are also a number of apartments and vacation rentals available, perfect for families or groups of friends.
Getting Around
Brussels is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily get around on foot or by bike. The city also has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Visitors can also use taxis or ride-sharing services, or take a guided tour to see the sights.
Conclusion
Brussels is a city that has something for everyone, from its stunning architecture and rich history to its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Whether visitors are interested in culture, history, or simply exploring a new city, Brussels is a must-visit destination. With its central location and excellent transportation links, Brussels is also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Brussels is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. The city’s festivals and events take place during this time, including the Brussels Jazz Festival and the Brussels Summer Festival. The autumn months are also a good time to visit, with the city’s famous beer festivals taking place during this time. Winter can be cold and rainy, but the city’s Christmas markets and festive atmosphere make it a great time to visit.
Practical Information
Visitors to Brussels can find a wide range of practical information online, including information on accommodation, transportation, and attractions. The city’s official tourism website is a great resource, with information on everything from festivals and events to restaurants and bars. Visitors can also find a number of travel guides and brochures at the city’s tourist information offices.
Language
The official language of Brussels is French, but many residents also speak Dutch and English. Visitors can get by with just English, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases in French or Dutch. The city’s signs and menus are often bilingual, making it easy for visitors to navigate.
Money
The official currency of Brussels is the euro, and visitors can exchange currency at one of the city’s many currency exchange offices or use an ATM to withdraw cash. Credit cards are widely accepted, and visitors can also use their credit cards to pay for goods and services. Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s always appreciated for good service.
Safety
Brussels is generally a safe city, but visitors should always take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Pickpocketing is a common problem in tourist areas, so visitors should keep their valuables secure and be mindful of their surroundings. The city’s police force is also very effective, and visitors can report any incidents or concerns to the authorities.
Health and Medical Care
Brussels has a number of excellent hospitals and medical facilities, and visitors can receive medical care in case of an emergency. Visitors should always have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and should also bring any necessary medications or vaccinations. The city’s tap water is safe to drink, and visitors can also find a number of excellent restaurants and cafes serving a wide range of cuisine.
Accessibility
Brussels is a relatively flat city, making it easy to get around for visitors with mobility issues. The city’s public transportation system is also wheelchair accessible, and visitors can find a number of accessible attractions and facilities throughout the city. The city’s tourist information offices can also provide information on accessible attractions and facilities.
Family-Friendly
Brussels is a great destination for families, with a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for children. The city’s museums and galleries often have interactive exhibits and activities for kids, and the city’s parks and gardens are perfect for a family picnic or stroll. Visitors can also find a number of family-friendly restaurants and cafes serving a wide range of cuisine.
Business and Conferences
Brussels is a major business hub, and the city hosts a number of conferences and events throughout the year. Visitors can find a wide range of conference facilities and meeting rooms, and the city’s business community is always welcoming to new visitors. The city’s tourist information offices can also provide information on business and conference facilities. (See Also: Cities To Visit In Spain And Portugal)
Gay and Lesbian Travelers
Brussels is a very welcoming city for gay and lesbian travelers, with a number of gay bars and clubs throughout the city. The city’s Pride parade is a major event, and visitors can find a number of gay-friendly hotels and restaurants. The city’s tourist information offices can also provide information on gay and lesbian attractions and events.
Senior Travelers
Brussels is a great destination for senior travelers, with a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for older visitors. The city’s museums and galleries often have wheelchair access and audio guides, and the city’s public transportation system is also accessible for seniors. Visitors can also find a number of senior-friendly hotels and restaurants serving a wide range of cuisine.
Student Travelers
Brussels is a great destination for student travelers, with a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for young visitors. The city’s museums and galleries often have student discounts, and the city’s public transportation system is also affordable for students. Visitors can also find a number of student-friendly hotels and restaurants serving a wide range of cuisine.
Accessibility for People with Disabilities
Brussels is a relatively flat city, making it easy to get around for visitors with mobility issues. The city’s public transportation system is also wheelchair accessible, and visitors can find a number of accessible attractions and facilities throughout the city. The city’s tourist information offices can also provide information on accessible attractions and facilities.
Emergency Services
In case of an emergency, visitors can call the following numbers:
- Emergency services: 101
- Police: 101
- Fire department: 100
- Ambulance: 100
Useful Phrases
Here are some useful phrases to know when visiting Brussels:
- Thank you: Merci (French), Dank je wel (Dutch)
- Yes: Oui (French), Ja (Dutch)
- No: Non (French), Nee (Dutch)
- Excuse me: Excusez-moi (French), Excuseer me (Dutch)
- Where is…?: Où est…? (French), Waar is…? (Dutch)
- How much is this?: Combien ça coûte? (French), Hoeveel kost dit? (Dutch)
Conclusion
Brussels is a city that has something for everyone, from its stunning architecture and rich history to its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Whether visitors are interested in culture, history, or simply exploring a new city, Brussels is a must-visit destination. With its central location and excellent transportation links, Brussels is also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region.
As we conclude our exploration of the best cities to visit in Brussels, it’s clear that this charming region has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
We began by highlighting the city of Brussels itself, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. From the iconic Atomium to the Grand Place, there’s no shortage of iconic landmarks to discover.
We also delved into the charming towns of Bruges and Ghent, each with its own unique character and charm. Bruges, with its picturesque canals and medieval architecture, is a must-visit for history buffs, while Ghent’s vibrant arts scene and lively nightlife make it a great choice for those looking for a more modern experience.
In addition to these three cities, we also explored the smaller towns and villages that dot the region, each with its own unique charm and attractions. From the medieval castle of Gaasbeek to the charming town of Leuven, there’s no shortage of hidden gems to discover. (See Also: Top Cities To Visit In New Hampshire)
Throughout this article, we’ve highlighted the region’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, as well as its many hidden gems and attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Brussels has something to offer.
So why not start planning your trip to Brussels today? With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, this region is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Here are five FAQs related to the best cities to visit in Brussels:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top cities to visit in Brussels?
Brussels is a city that offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. Some of the top cities to visit in Brussels include the Grand Place, Atomium, and the European Parliament. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums, such as the Magritte Museum and the Belgian Comic Strip Center.
What are the best ways to get around Brussels?
Brussels has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Visitors can also use taxis or ride-sharing services to get around the city. Additionally, Brussels is a walkable city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
What are the best restaurants in Brussels?
Brussels is known for its delicious food, and visitors can find a wide range of restaurants serving everything from traditional Belgian cuisine to international dishes. Some popular restaurants include Comme Chez Soi, which serves French-inspired cuisine, and ‘T Kelderke, which serves traditional Belgian dishes like mussels and fries.
What are the best shopping areas in Brussels?
Brussels has several shopping areas, including the Grand Place, which is home to many high-end boutiques and souvenir shops. Visitors can also find shopping centers like the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and the City 2 shopping mall. Additionally, Brussels has many markets, including the Grand Sablon and the Marché aux Puces.
What are the best day trips from Brussels?
Brussels is a great base for exploring the surrounding region. Some popular day trips include visiting the medieval town of Bruges, the historic city of Antwerp, and the scenic town of Waterloo. Visitors can also take a day trip to the Ardennes forest or the Belgian coast.
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