Brussels is considered the capital of Europe as it houses key NATO and EU institutions, features historic architecture and hosts an impressive number of restaurants per square mile.
The city is celebrated for its 800-plus varieties of beer, indulgent waffles and rich chocolate. It also boasts a deep-rooted frites tradition with countless street vendors serving up crispy cones across town.
Home to more than 1.2 million residents, Brussels stands as a vital economic and political hub in Europe, yet it remains a favorite destination for travelers drawn to its culture and charm.
Though the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, the earliest recorded mention of Brussels dates back to the 10th century. It was then known by its Frankish name, Bruocsella, meaning “settlement in the marshes.”
At the time, the community formed part of Lower Lotharingia, also known as Lower Lorraine. It’s fascinating to think that this modest settlement along a marshland trading route would grow into the political and cultural heart of Belgium. It was shaped over centuries by royalty, commerce and European institutions until its name came to stand for something far bigger than its medieval origins.
Art lovers will find plenty to explore, from the Horta Museum, housed in one of Victor Horta’s original Art Nouveau masterpieces, to offbeat institutions like the Museum of Natural Sciences, known for its impressive dinosaur gallery and interactive exhibits.
Landmarks like the Coudenberg Archaeological Site reveal the remains of Brussels’ former palace beneath the city streets. Meanwhile, the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries and the Sablon district offer elegant architecture and centuries-old charm.
Of course, no trip to Brussels is complete without experiencing its legendary beer culture: traditional cafés and local taverns offer an authentic taste of Belgian brewing traditions.
Getting Around Brussels
Getting around is easy as Brussels has an efficient and easy-to-use public transport system operated by STIB/MIVB, with metros, trams, and buses connecting the city’s main attractions and neighborhoods.
The metro is the fastest option, trams offer scenic routes, and buses cover wider areas. For trips outside the city, trains run by SNCB/NMBS make day travel across Belgium simple and convenient.
Beyond sightseeing, Brussels also invites travelers to stroll through its green spaces, discover local markets, and soak in the relaxed rhythm of a capital city that beautifully balances history, culture and everyday life.
Top 10 Must-Experience Attractions
Here are the ten must-experience attractions and iconic spots that define Brussels’ rich cultural identity and capture the city’s true spirit.
1. Tour the Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the King’s official workplace. This neoclassical palace offers a glimpse into Belgium’s monarchy. It is usually open to the public for free from late July to early September (Tuesday through Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), after National Day on July 21.
Note: The Royal Palace has been closed for renovations. Check the official website before your visit to confirm the current access status and any updated booking requirements.
Visitors can tour its opulent rooms, including the Throne Room, the Mirror Room and the Hall of Mirrors with its beetle-wing ceiling.
The palace is a stunning landmark and a must-visit while in Brussels. It’s perfect for capturing memorable photos and is conveniently located across from a beautiful park that’s ideal for a relaxed stroll.
2. Visit the Futuristic Atomium
Climb inside this iconic 1958 World’s Fair landmark for panoramic city views. Visitors can use escalators and a lift within the tubes to move between the spheres, which house permanent and temporary exhibitions. It features nine interconnected spheres representing an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times.
It is situated in the Heysel park area, easily accessible by metro line 6 (Heysel station). Arrive early, around 10:00 a.m., to avoid the busiest times, especially on weekends and during school holidays, for a more relaxed and enjoyable visit.
3. Taste Legendary Brews at Delirium Café
The Delirium Café is a world-famous, multi-level beer haven near the Grand-Place. It is also a Guinness World Record holder for its staggering selection of over 2,000+ beers.
Known for its impressive range of Trappist, local, and unique fruity brews, it offers an energetic atmosphere often buzzing with crowds and live music, making it a must-visit for beer lovers.
The café is part of the larger “Delirium Village,” a lively complex that features several themed bars under one roof. It is located in the Ilot Sacré area, just a short walk from the iconic Grand-Place.
4. Visit the UNESCO-Listed Grand Place
Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning 17th-century guildhalls and city town hall. It’s one of Europe’s most breathtaking squares, especially at golden hour.
Free to visit, the Grand-Place is best explored by strolling through its cobblestone streets, especially during the stunning biennial Flower Carpet every other August or when the square is beautifully illuminated at night.
Those visiting in 2026 are in luck as it is a Flower Carpet year. From August 13–16, 2026, the Brussels Flower Carpet will transform the Grand Place into a floral masterpiece. For this 24th edition, Japan will be honored on the Grand Place.
The Grand Place is best explored on foot, where visitors can admire its breathtaking, gilded facades and intricate architectural details up close.
Key landmarks include the towering Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville), the historic King’s House (Maison du Roi), and the beautifully decorated guildhalls that once represented Brussels’ powerful trade associations.
5. Discover Masterpieces at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Art lovers visiting Brussels should not miss the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. It’s one of the city’s most important cultural institutions and a treasure trove of artistic heritage.
The museum contains over 20,000 drawings, sculptures and paintings by renowned artists such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Peter Paul Rubens, and René Magritte. Photography is permitted inside the museum, as long as flash is not used.
The Royal Museum collection spans from the early Flemish masters to modern and contemporary works. The galleries are thoughtfully curated, allowing guests to journey through different artistic movements while appreciating how Belgian art evolved over time.
Beyond the paintings and sculptures, the atmosphere itself feels refined and inspiring. The elegant interiors create a fitting setting for art that has shaped European cultural history.
6. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate at Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in Brussels is one of Europe’s oldest covered shopping arcades, lined with luxury chocolatiers.
It is home to historic and luxury artisanal shops such as Neuhaus, the inventor of the praline, Mary Chocolatier, a Royal Warrant holder, and Pierre Marcolini.
Visitors can sample and purchase premium pralines, truffles and gourmet chocolates while enjoying the elegance of this stunning 19th-century arcade.
Most shops are open on Sundays and sell custom pralines by weight. The space is especially beautiful at night, with seasonal treats available year-round.
7. Comic Strip Route
Discover massive, colorful murals of famous Belgian comic characters throughout the city center. While exploring Brussels’ comic strip route, look out for Boule et Bill, the lovable boy-and-dog duo. Their cheerful mural adds a fun, nostalgic touch to the city’s colorful open-air gallery.
Fearless reporter Tintin and the Smurfs may be Belgium’s most famous comic heroes, but they are only the beginning in a country devoted to the “ninth art.”
A stop at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, set inside a stunning Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, offers a deeper look into this creative legacy.
Follow the city’s self-guided comic strip trail, where colorful murals transform ordinary walls into open-air galleries, leading you through some of Brussels’ most charming and lesser-known streets.
8. Wander Through the European Quarter
Wander Brussels’ EU Quarter, where historic parks, lively neighborhoods, and layers of cultural history come together in one dynamic district. It’s a district where European political influence meets a rich and evolving cultural scene.
It’s also one of the city’s most livable areas, offering plenty of excellent spots to eat and drink, each with its own distinct vibe. The district is easily accessible by public transport, with stations such as Schuman, Maelbeek and Trône nearby.
Notable stops include the free-to-visit Parlamentarium, the House of European History, the impressive Hemicycle and the picturesque Leopold Park. Consider a walking tour to explore museums such as Autoworld and enjoy the lively nightlife.
9. Stroll Through the Grand Parc du Cinquantenaire
If you need a break from sightseeing, Parc du Cinquantenaire is the perfect place to slow down. It’s a lovely free park, spacious and perfect for enjoying a sunny day in Brussels. It’s a great place to walk, enjoy other people, their children and dogs. The park features an impressive archway, a beautiful fountain, flowers and trees.
The triumphal arch stands at its center, surrounded by beautiful buildings and wide green lawns shaped in eye-catching patterns. Locals come here to jog, picnic, read, or simply lie on the grass when the sun is out. It’s relaxed, spacious, and feels like a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city.
10. See the Playful Manneken Pis
The Manneken Pis is a well-known 60 cm bronze statue depicting a little boy urinating, drawing large crowds of camera enthusiasts. It is situated at the corner of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne in central Brussels, just a short stroll from the Grand-Place.
With its lively displays and engaging presentation, it’s a great place to visit during a family stroll. Of course, viewing the fountain is free, and the street is open day and night.
If You Go
One of the city’s highest-rated tours, Legends of Brussels pairs a small-group walking tour of the city’s top landmarks with chocolate and waffle tastings along the way.
Getting There: Fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) or Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL). Compare flights at CheapOAir.
Getting Around: Brussels has an efficient public transport network operated by STIB/MIVB — metro, tram, and bus lines connect the city’s main attractions. For trips to places like the Atomium, the metro is fastest. Trains run by SNCB/NMBS connect Brussels to other Belgian cities, including Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Amigo — a five-star Rocco Forte property steps from the Grand Place, widely considered the best-located luxury hotel in central Brussels.
- Hotel des Galeries — a chic boutique hotel overlooking the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, two minutes from the Grand Place.
- Motel One Brussels — a well-reviewed, centrally located option for travelers who want a clean, modern stay without a luxury price tag.
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Author Bio: Samuel Sobande is a dedicated, skilled freelance travel writer with a passion for telling compelling stories that connect readers to places, cultures, and experiences around the world.
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