Brussels, the headquarters of the European Union, is a city in Belgium with beautiful architecture and one-of-a-kind food and beer. Most people bypass Brussels attractions city on their way to more popular tourist destinations like Amsterdam, but considering Brussels as your tourist destination will surely boggle your mind. Below are some fantastic places in Brussels you can visit.
Top 10 Brussels attractions
Manneken Pis
This bronze statue of a young boy urinating is very famous. In the 15th-century, this sculpture was a water point and has now become a symbol of national heritage, attracting tourists worldwide.
The European Parliament
Brussels is considered the capital of Europe because it houses the Parliament. The building is beautiful and is open to tours; just be sure to book early enough to secure your spot. You can visit during a parliamentary session and see members in action or tour when the session is off.
The Atomium
Representing an iron crystal magnified up to 165 billion times, the Atomium in Belgium is an icon and a must-visit spot when in Brussels. It was built in 1958 and comprised a series of spheres. The topmost sphere offers a broad panoramic view of Brussels and its outskirts.
The Grand Place of Brussels
This is the most famous of all attractions in Brussels and it features the museum, guild houses and the town hall. In 1998, this site was named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Local residents use this place for meetups because it is well known and very central.
Getting a beer at Delirium café
This café holds the Guinness world record for its variety of beer types (2000) from across the world. You have a high chance of also finding your local beer from back home.
Mont des Arts
Mont des Arts is located between the uptown and downtown of the city. A walk in the garden is the perfect occasion to enjoy great views of the city’s beauties, like the town hall and even the Atomium on a clear-sky day. For an exceptional experience, visit this site at sunset and enjoy a colorful view.
The Royal Palace
Although the king’s residence is in Laeken, this palace is the administrative center where political organizations and state visitors are welcomed. Place des Palais is located at the very heart of Brussels.
The Palace of Justice
The golden dome building is located on a hill, making it quite visible from afar. This is one of the most crucial buildings and national monuments in Belgium; it was designed by architect Joseph Poelaert.
Cartoon walls
Exemplary work of art done by the Belgian Comic Strip Center, these cartoon walls were a cover-up for walls containing commercial ads in the 90s. You are bound to see familiar faces from popular cartoons like Tintin and Smurfs. Go on the Comic Book Walk enjoy all of the art- It’s also perfect for taking fun photos!
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
This place comprises the three magnificent halls, Galerie des Princes, Galerie du Roi, and Galerie de la Reine. Although the items sold are relatively quite expensive, a window-shopping walk just to view the magnificent glass roof and various boutiques and chocolateries will do just fine.
To navigate the city’s magnificent sites, you can board a taxi, rent a bicycle, use public transport or order a ride-sharing Uber.
When to visit Brussels attractions
The best time to visit Brussels attractions conveniently and not compete for space is between March and May and September and October, the so-called off-season. The weather in Brussels is quite shaky, you should carry both warm and light clothes to be prepared.
Mirela Letailleur is a Romanian travel blogger living in the South of France. She writes on The Travel Bunny travel blog about affordable travel in Europe, creator of unique free travel guides, local travel expert. Problem solver. Wannabe coffee guru.
This article about the best Brussels attractions was written in collaboration with Mary Davis.
Other articles you should read on The Travel Bunny blog
Visit Brussels: A brief travel guide
What to eat in Brussels Belgium
3 best things to do in Belgium