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Brussels sure attracts visitors with its iconic landmarks like the Grand Place. But delve deeper, and you’ll discover a city brimming with unexpected treasures. Imagine sipping coffee at René Magritte’s favorite café, marveling at the world’s largest Art Deco church, or gazing at a giant iron crystal that dominates the cityscape.
A trip to Brussels’ center is a captivating journey through time, where enchanting World Heritage Sites whisper tales of the past. And there’s more to this vibrant city than the bustling rue des Bouchers or the mischievous Manneken Pis.
Get ready to be surprised by the must visit attractions in Brussels, a city where history, quirky charm, and the good life intertwine.
1. The Grand Place and the Neighbouring Galleries
The adventure begins at the undisputed crown jewel: the Grand Place. Widely hailed as one of the world’s most breathtaking squares, it casts a spell when bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. The intricate details of the gilded buildings shimmer, and in the evenings, the cobblestones transform into an impromptu social space.
No visit to the Grand Place is complete without admiring the City of Brussels town hall. This architectural masterpiece, a flamboyant example of 15th-century Gothic design, will leave you awestruck. Equally impressive is the Maison du Roi, housing the Brussels City Museum. And don’t miss the captivating row of private houses, built in the late 17th century, that complete the square’s grandeur.
And for those with a penchant for aesthetics, a stroll through the Royal Saint Hubert Gallery is a must. This exquisite covered shopping arcade, one of the very first in Europe, houses high-end chocolatiers, luxury shops, restaurants and cafés.
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2. The Cheeky Manneken Pis and His Wardrobe of Wonders
Then of course is the local legend – the impish Manneken Pis. This little fellow, a sculpture by Jérôme Duquesnoy l’Ancien gracing a public fountain since 1619, has become a beloved symbol of Brussels’ spirit. He embodies a playful, irreverent, and quirky charm that resonates with the city’s character.
While the current statue is a replica (the original, a target for mischievous souvenir hunters, now resides safely in the Brussels City Museum), Manneken Pis remains a cherished landmark. His diminutive stature might be unassuming, but his overflowing wardrobe – from an Argentinian gaucho’s attire to a tribute to the iconic Toots Thielemans – adds a touch of flamboyant fun. And for a deeper dive into his sartorial adventures, head to the GardeRobe MannekenPis Museum, located nearby on rue du Chêne.
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Brussels
3. The Comic Strip Trail
Brussels is a paradise for comic book fans. Nicknamed the “capital of the comic strip,” the city’s love for graphic storytelling extends far beyond bookstores. Since 1991, Brussels has transformed its walls into a vibrant art gallery, showcasing over 80 murals featuring iconic comic book characters. Imagine turning a corner and coming face-to-face with Tintin, the Smurfs, or Gaston Lagaffe! This open-air exhibition is a delightful way to explore the city, leading you past the majestic Grand Place and other architectural gems.
4. The Mont des Arts
Brussels unfolds at your feet from the Mont des Arts, a charming vantage point located below place Royale and provides a green transition bridging the city’s upper and lower districts. The verdant gardens, perfect for a leisurely rest, slope gently towards a three-story, 16-metre tall glass cube and the statue of King Albert I, the “knightly king.” Across the road, a sense of romance fills the air as his gaze falls upon his beloved Queen Elizabeth, whose statue graces the Place de l’Albertine.
Mont des Arts is also a cultural hub. Art enthusiasts will find treasures at the KBR, Belgium’s national library, and the KBR Museum, which houses historical gems like the library of the Dukes of Burgundy. Music lovers can delve into the fascinating Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM) nearby. And that’s just the beginning! The Brussels Congress Centre and renowned institutions like Bozar and the BELvue museum are all within easy reach.
5. The Train World Museum
Dive into the world of trains at Train World, a one-of-a-kind railway experience! This isn’t your typical museum. Here, you’ll journey through time, from the very first steam locomotives to the high-speed marvels of today. Train World engages all your senses, bringing the fascinating world of railways to life through historic locomotives, stations
and railway cottages. Climb aboard century-old carriages, and even walk across a real railway bridge. Discover the evolution of train safety and technology through interactive exhibits, and witness unique footage of the electrification of Brussels-Charleroi line! Just the perfect place to know that know that train timetables are the reason all clocks, from Ostend to Arlon, keep perfect time.
Train World caters to all levels of train enthusiasts. Get up close to iconic locomotives like the streamlined type 12 steam engine and the pioneering electric MS 35. Diesel fans will love the Brossel (MW 551), and if you are a true train superfan you might even get the chance to experience the thrill of driving a train yourself.
6. The Atomium and Mini Europe
This awe-inspiring structure, built for the 1958 World’s Fair, isn’t just visually striking, it’s a monument to scientific progress. The nine gleaming spheres represent an iron crystal magnified a mind-boggling 165 billion times (though many mistake the entire structure for an atom itself)! You can venture inside to explore fascinating exhibitions and, the undisputed highlight, panoramic views of the Brussels-Capital Region from the top sphere.
Brussels offers a delightful double dose of wonder at Mini-Europe within walking distance of the Atomium. Mini-Europe lets you shrink down to miniature size and marvel at meticulously crafted replicas of Europe’s most beloved landmarks. And for design aficionados, the Design Museum Brussels awaits, brimming with treasures from a private collection that found a permanent home after the Atomium’s acquisition.
7. Choco Story – The Chocolate Museum
A stone’s throw from the majestic Grand Place, Choco-Story Brussels whisks you on a journey through the world of cocoa and chocolate. This immersive experience spans over 5,000 years, from the origins of the cocoa bean in the Amazon rainforest to the birth of the iconic Belgian praline. From the lush greenery of the Amazon, where the story of cocoa unfolds to stepping into an Aztec temple and learning about their use of this precious ingredient. Then, climb aboard a replica of Hernán Cortés’ ship, symbolizing the arrival of cocoa beans in Europe.
You’ll learn the process of transforming cocoa into decadent chocolate, and discover how Belgian chocolatiers elevate it to an art form. The tour culminates in a captivating live demonstration of praline-making, followed by a tasting session alongside audio guide available in 11 languages. And for the ultimate chocolate experience, unleash your inner chocolatier and create your very own chocolate bars in a workshop.
8. A Colossus of Law: The Palace of Justice
The Palace of Justice in Brussels reigns supreme as a monument to both history and justice. Designed by architect Joseph Poelaert and inaugurated in 1883, it casts a looming presence over the Marolles district. While the legend of 16th-century doctor Vesalius stealing corpses from here might be left to be ascertained, the Palace itself holds a unique place in history.
At the time of its construction, this staggering edifice boasted over 40,000 square meters of usable space. Today, it remains one of the most impressive courthouses globally. Built in the classical Greco-Roman style, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of lower Brussels. Larger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, it remains an architectural marvel making it the world’s largest palace of justice in the world.
9. Belgian Beer World
Belgium’s love affair with beer is world-renowned, with more brands brewed here than anywhere else. This passion is so deeply ingrained that Belgian beer culture is even a UNESCO intangible heritage site!
You can immerse yourself in this sudsy obsession at the Belgian Beer World in Brussels. This interactive experience goes beyond a typical museum, offering a didactic and sensory journey through Belgium’s brewing history. Uncover fascinating facts and humorous anecdotes, then ascend to the impressive sky bar for a tasting session with breathtaking city views. And of course, don’t forget to visit the Beer Museum’s shop and take home a souvenir to remember this hoppy haven!
10. The Cinquantenaire
The Cinquantenaire isn’t your average park. Built in 1880 to commemorate Belgium’s 50th birthday, it’s a place steeped in history with French-style gardens, landmarks, and world-class museums. A magnificent triumphal arch dominates the park, its three openings and bronze quadriga at the summit offering breathtaking 360 degree panoramic views of Brussels.
Stroll along the wide paths and discover the Pavilion of Human Passions by renowned architect Victor Horta, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, the expansive Art & History Museum, and Autoworld, a haven for car enthusiasts.
Throughout the year, the park comes alive with vibrant events – sporting competitions, lively festivals, captivating concerts, and dazzling firework displays. And in the summer months, unwind at the Guinguette Maurice pop-up bar, a delightful spot for a refreshing break.
11. Parlamentarium – Understanding Europe and its Parliament
A one-of-a-kind visitor centre, the Parlamentarium is an interactive hub that brings the European Union to life through immersive experiences. Watch a captivating film that whisks you through European history, then be wowed by a breathtaking 360° panorama of the continent and its Parliament. Understand how laws are made, the role of the European Parliament, and meet the MEPs tackling Europe’s biggest challenges. Hear directly from political leaders about the EU’s future. But don’t worry, it’s not all serious! Snap a fun photo booth picture and get the latest scoop on current events happening right within the Parliament walls.
The Parlamentarium welcomes everyone, regardless of age or EU knowledge. Plus, everything is available in 24 languages. Explore an interactive floor map showcasing Europe’s incredible diversity with over 100 stories and finally in a warm and inviting setting, listen to real people share their experiences and how the EU makes a difference in their daily lives.
12. The Institute of Natural Sciences
This museum proudly boasts Europe’s largest dinosaur gallery, aperfect to satisfy the curiosity of dino enthusiasts of all ages. Prepare to come face-to-face with legendary creatures like Iguanodons, T. rex, Triceratops, Diplodocus, and 34 other awe-inspiring species.
But the Institute’s wonders extend far beyond the prehistoric. Immerse yourself in a vibrant exploration of Earth’s incredible biodiversity, presented with an engaging blend of beauty, science, and family-friendly fun. For a deeper dive, delve into the museum’s history through 14 fascinating chapters in the permanent exhibit. Witness specimens that illustrate the Institute’s remarkable 250-year journey in the realm of natural sciences.
13. Palais Royal
Every summer, the Royal Palace of Brussels transforms into a must-see attraction. This grand building, the official palace of the Belgian King and Queen, opens its doors for free public tours. While not the king’s actual residence (that honor belongs to the Royal Palace of Laeken), the Brussels Palace serves as his administrative center and workplace. Here, the King meets with government officials, foreign dignitaries, and ambassadors.
Dating back to the 18th century, the Royal Palace boasts a rich history. Built on the site of a former palace of the Dukes of Brabant which was destroyed by fire in 1731. Started in 1820 under the reign of King William, it it underwent modifications in 1904 under Leopold II, who had it rebuilt in Louis XVI style. Look for the 18th-century side wings with their pavilions, including the BELvue Museum. If you’re visiting Brussels between late July and the end of August, be sure to add this architectural gem to your itinerary.
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