GlobLeo Travels

Brussels, Belgium

Brussel City Guide For Travelers

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Brussels, the capital of Belgium, often gets overlooked by travelers rushing to Paris or Amsterdam, but this city deserves more than just a quick stopover. It’s a place where you can sip world-class beer, devour crispy fries, and wander through streets lined with stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Brussels is a city of contrasts, blending historical charm with modern flair, and it’s home to some of Europe’s most impressive cultural and architectural landmarks.

Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, Belgium

The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit, with its intricate Gothic, Baroque, and neoclassical facades. Beyond its central attractions, Brussels offers a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, from the trendy boutiques of Ixelles to the multicultural charm of Schaerbeek. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly locals, Brussels is an underrated gem waiting to be explored, offering a blend of elegance and quirkiness that makes it a standout among European capitals. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply experiencing a new city, Brussels has something for everyone, making it well worth a visit.

City Overview

Brussels is split into 19 communes, each with its own character. The city center, known as the City of Brussels, is where you’ll find most of the tourist hotspots. But venture beyond, and you’ll discover a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own vibe.

The Grand Place, Brussels’ central square, is the heart of the city. It’s surrounded by ornate guild houses and the impressive Town Hall. Every two years in August, the square is covered with a massive flower carpet – a sight that’s worth planning your trip around.

Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

  1. Ixelles:
    This trendy area is split in two by Avenue Louise. It’s got a village-like feel despite being close to the city center. Expect to pay a bit more to live here, but you’ll be rewarded with great cafes and boutiques.
  2. Etterbeek:
    Popular with families and professionals, Etterbeek offers a quieter vibe while still being centrally located. It’s close to the European Quarter and has excellent public transport links.
  3. Saint-Josse-ten-Noode:
    The smallest and most densely populated district in Brussels. It’s a cultural melting pot with affordable short-term rentals.
  4. Schaerbeek: A multicultural area with beautiful Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture. It’s got plenty of green spaces and is only a 15-minute bike ride from the city center.

Getting Around

Brussels has an extensive public transport network of metros, trams, and buses. A single ticket is valid for an hour and lets you use all three. If you’re staying for a few days, consider getting a multi-day pass.

Biking is also popular, especially in areas like Schaerbeek where public transport can be a bit unreliable. Just watch out for the cobblestone streets in the old town – they can be a bumpy ride!

From the Airport to the City

Brussels Airport is well-connected to the city. The quickest way is the direct train to Brussels Central Station, which takes about 20 minutes. There’s also an airport bus that’s a bit cheaper but takes longer.

What to See and Do

  1. European Parliament:
    As the administrative center of the EU, Brussels offers a chance to see European politics in action. You can watch a parliamentary session or take a tour of the building.
  2. Atomium:
    This massive steel structure, built for the 1958 World’s Fair, offers great views of the city from its upper spheres.
  3. Comic Strip Walk:
    Brussels is the birthplace of Tintin and the Smurfs. Take a walk around the city to spot colorful comic book murals on building walls.
  4. Museums:
    From the Magritte Museum showcasing surrealist art to the Musical Instrument Museum, there’s something for every interest.

Also see Top Things To Do In Belgium

Places to Stay

Brussels offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

  1. City Center: For those who want to be in the heart of the action, hotels near Grand Place are ideal. The Marivaux Hotel and ibis Brussels City Centre are popular choices, offering comfortable rooms within walking distance of major attractions.
  2. Saint-Gilles: This trendy neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a more local experience. The Hôtel Concorde is a good option, located close to Gare du Midi for easy transport connections.
  3. Ixelles: For a upscale stay, consider the Hotel Manos Stephanie in the fashionable Ixelles district, near Avenue Louise’s shopping area.
  4. Budget-friendly: Hostels like The Legacy by 2GO4 City Center offer affordable dorm-style accommodation, great for backpackers or budget travelers.
  5. Unique stays: For something different, try the Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels, a newly renovated historic hotel with modern amenities.

Nightlife and Dining

Brussels has a vibrant food and nightlife scene:

  1. Restaurants:
    • Aux Armes de Bruxelles: A classic spot for traditional Belgian mussels and frites.
    • Belga Queen: Offers a cool, modern dining experience in a unique setting.
    • ‘T Kelderke: Located right on Grand Place, it’s good for traditional Belgian cuisine.
  2. Bars and Clubs:
    • Spirito: A former church turned nightclub, offering a unique party experience.
    • Mirano Brussels: Transforms from a cultural space by day to a premiere nightclub after dark.
    • La Bourse Hotel: Has a terrace and restaurant, perfect for a more relaxed evening out.
  3. Beer Tasting: Brussels is famous for its beer. Many bars offer extensive beer menus, and you can also join organized beer tasting tours.
  4. Late-night Eats: The area around Rue des Bouchers is known for late-night dining, though be wary of tourist traps.

Activities with Kids and Family

Brussels is surprisingly family-friendly with plenty to keep kids entertained:

  1. Mini-Europe: A miniature park featuring replicas of famous European landmarks. It’s educational and fun for all ages.
  2. Atomium: This massive steel structure offers great views and a unique experience for kids.
  3. Comic Strip Center: Brussels is the birthplace of many famous comics. This museum is engaging for both adults and children.
  4. Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM): Over 1,500 instruments from around the world, with interactive exhibits and a headset tour.
  5. Oceade: An aquatic park with water slides and pools, perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
  6. Parc du Cinquantenaire: Brussels’ largest public park, great for picnics and outdoor play. It also houses several museums.
  7. Museum of Natural Sciences: Home to Europe’s largest dinosaur gallery, a hit with dino-loving kids.
  8. Chocolate workshops: Many chocolate shops offer family-friendly workshops where kids can learn to make their own Belgian chocolates.

Remember, many museums in Brussels offer free entry for children under 18, making it an affordable destination for family trips.

Food and Drink

Belgian cuisine is more than just waffles and chocolate (though those are great too). Here are some must-tries:

  1. Moules-frites:
    Mussels served with a side of crispy fries.
  2. Carbonnade flamande:
    A hearty beef stew cooked in beer.
  3. Belgian beer:
    With hundreds of varieties, you’re sure to find one you like.

Don’t forget to try the frites from a fritkot (fry stand). They’re served in a paper cone with a dollop of mayo.

See Popular Foods To Try In Belgium

Weather and When to Visit

  • Brussels has a temperate climate with mild winters and cool summers.
  • It rains quite often, so pack an umbrella no matter when you visit.
  • Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Local Tips

  1. Learn a few words in both French and Dutch. Brussels is officially bilingual, and locals appreciate the effort.
  2. Many shops and restaurants close on Sundays and Mondays. Plan accordingly.
  3. Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.

Brussels might not have the instant charm of Paris or the cool factor of Berlin, but give it a chance. It’s a city that reveals itself slowly, rewarding those who take the time to explore its quirky museums, diverse neighborhoods, and excellent food scene. Who knows? You might just find yourself planning a return trip before you’ve even left.

Distances from Other Cities

Here are some relative distances to Brussels from popular cities in Belgium and neighboring countries, focusing on bus or car travel:

Within Belgium

  1. Antwerp to Brussels
    • Distance: 45 km (28 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 45 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 1 hour
  2. Ghent to Brussels
    • Distance: 55 km (34 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 50 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
  3. Bruges to Brussels
    • Distance: 100 km (62 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 1 hour 15 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 1 hour 30 minutes

Neighboring Countries

  1. Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Brussels
    • Distance: 205 km (127 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 2 hours 30 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 3 hours 30 minutes
  2. Paris (France) to Brussels
    • Distance: 304 km (189 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 3 hours 30 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 4 hours 5 minutes
  3. Luxembourg City (Luxembourg) to Brussels
    • Distance: 230 km (143 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 2 hours 30 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 3 hours 30 minutes
  4. Cologne (Germany) to Brussels
    • Distance: 220 km (137 miles)
    • Travel time by car: About 2 hours 15 minutes
    • Travel time by bus: Around 3 hours 30 minutes

These travel times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic conditions, the specific route taken, and the type of bus service used. Generally, traveling by car is faster than by bus for these routes, but buses often offer a more economical option for budget-conscious travelers.

Explore Belgium Further

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Cosmic Voyager

The Cosmic Voyager is a passionate traveler with an insatiable curiosity for the wonders of the universe, always seeking new horizons and experiences that expand the mind and soul.

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