Travel guide: What to see and do in Brussels

The best way to see and visit Brussels: Take a free tour

What to see in Brussels in 1 - 3 days?

Brussels attracts its visitors for its enormous tourist offer, its delicious gastronomy and its cultural and monumental heritage.

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is the seat of government and the European Parliament. Today it has become one of the favorite travel destinations, as it is often the starting point for trips throughout Belgium. It is a city full of museums, parks and historical buildings.

You can also take advantage of your trip to Brussels to get to know the surrounding towns that offer all kinds of activities.

In this guide we will tell you everything you need to know before planning your trip to Brussels.

How to plan my visit to Brussels?

At Yoorney we have local tour guides who offer you the best selection of guided tours, free tours and excursions in Brussels and other cities around the world.

A different and fun way to discover a city.

Hey Yoorner! Do you want to live adventures? Visit the city in a different way with our Tours of Brussels!

Why visit Brussels?

If you have in mind going to the capital of Brussels, do you want to know the essential places to visit in Brussels?

You will love it and you will never want to leave! So that you don't miss a single detail of its emblematic corners, these are the essential places to see and visit in Brussels in 3 days (or a weekend getaway). Take note!

The complicated thing about traveling is knowing everything you want from the chosen destination. We take care of that and show you the place so you don't feel like a simple tourist. Yoorney tours teach you the local culture as if you were a local.

12 essential places to see and do in Brussels

1. Grand Place

The Grand Place is the historic center and heart of Brussels. This beautiful square was declared a World Heritage Site in 1998. It was formerly the market square and, although it suffered serious attacks by the French in 1695, a large part of the buildings were rebuilt, and today it is one of the most beautiful squares in the world.

This is where the Town Hall is located, the oldest building on the square built in 1459, but you will also find different buildings of interest such as the Maison du Roi, which was the residence of the monarchs and which today houses the City Museum, the Maison des Ducs de Brabant, Le Pigeon, which was the place where the famous French writer Victor Hugo stayed, and the trade union headquarters of Le Renard, Le Cornet and Le Roy d'Espagne, the latter being the most popular bar in the square.

In addition, the square is full of life, with terraces where you can have a drink and people everywhere, even on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays you can also enjoy a flower market. Actually, no matter when you visit this square, this place leaves everyone who stops to look at it speechless.

2. Manneken Pis

Very close to the Grand Place, is the Manneken Pis, the most famous piss in the world. It is a bronze statue of a boy urinating about 50 centimeters high that has become a symbol of the capital of Belgium, yes, you will always find it surrounded by tourists.

One of the most striking curiosities of the Manneken Pis is that, depending on the festivity that is celebrated at that time, they put on a characteristic outfit. This little bronze boy has no more and no less than 800 suits, which are on display at the Maison du Roi.

Not far from the Manneken Pis is its female version, the Jeanneke Pis, a urinating girl of the same size. Although it does not have the same popularity as its brother, it is worth paying a visit.

3. Saint Hubert Galleries

They were the first commercial galleries in Europe built in 1847. Today they still maintain the same glamor as then. Here are the most exclusive fashion stores, jewelry stores and restaurants in the city.

There are three galleries that make it up: the King's Gallery, the Queen's Gallery and the Princes' Gallery. During the more than 200 meters of tour you will be surprised not only by its luxurious shops but also by the large glass vaults that cover the galleries.

4. Courthouse

Within the great architectural heritage that we can see in Brussels, there is a building that stands out for its grandeur, we are talking about the Palace of Justice in Brussels. It is located in the upper part of the city, in the Sablón neighborhood, opposite Poelaert Square, and it is the largest building in Europe dedicated to the administration of justice.

As soon as you enter you will be surprised by its beauty. The ceiling is 100 meters high which creates a solemn atmosphere. Access is free, although there is a part reserved for palace staff since it is also a workplace.

PRICES

General admission: Free

Schedules

From Monday to Friday: 08:00 - 17:00.

Weekends and holidays: Closed

5. Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels functions as the headquarters of the offices of the Belgian monarchy. It is located opposite the Brussels Park and a few meters from the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

Its construction began in the 19th century thanks to William I, King of the Netherlands, but the building underwent several reforms during the reign of Leopold II until it was as we know it today. Inside, there is a large white marble staircase, the Throne Room and the Goya Room, where you can see the tapestries made in Spain based on drawings made by Goya.

6. Brussels Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula, known as the Brussels Cathedral, is the largest Catholic church in Belgium. It was built in the 13th century, although it did not acquire the name of cathedral until 1961 and its charm is not only found in its Gothic-style façade. Inside, the pulpit carved in wood in the Baroque style, the large stained glass windows and its large organ stand out.

7. European Quarter

Another place of interest that you cannot miss in Brussels is its European Quarter. In this area is the European Parliament and most of the buildings and institutions of the European Union. It is a bit far from the center of Brussels, but it is easily accessible by metro.

During the tour of this neighborhood you will be able to see the Centennial Park, which was built to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the independence of Belgium and its respective museums, the Autoworld and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. You will also discover the Schuman Rotunda, the Berlaymont Building, headquarters of the European Commission and the Europa Building, the place where the Council of the European Union meets. On the other hand, the Leopoldo Park and the House of European History are also located in this neighborhood, and finally we must highlight the European Parliament, the Berlin Wall and the Parlamentarium.

8. Atomium

It is a sculpture built in 1958 for the Universal Exhibition in Brussels that represents an iron atom magnified 165 billion times. Without a doubt, it is one of the icons of Brussels.

It has a height of 100 meters and is made up of 9 steel spheres connected to each other. Of these 9 spheres, 6 are open to the public, but the part that stands out the most is undoubtedly the restaurant, from which you will get incredible panoramic views of the city.

PRICES

General admission: 16.95€.

Schedules

From Friday to Monday: 09:00 - 18:00.

9. Flea market

The Brussels Flea Market is located on the Place du Jeu de Balle, in the Les Marolles neighborhood. It is very particular since it is a market for antiques and second-hand objects, here you will find all kinds of objects, from old records, clothes or paintings to porcelain pots. Surely if you investigate well, you can take some souvenir at a good price.

10. Brussels comic route

Brussels is the cradle of comics, great protagonists such as Tintin, Asterix and Obelix or Lucky Luce came from this city. Let yourself be surprised by the comic street art as you walk the streets of Brussels, you will find a multitude of facades painted with murals that will leave you impressed.

Of course, if you are a fan of comics and the adventures of Tintin, go to 10 Rue des Sables to see the Comic Museum. Here you will be able to learn everything about the "Ninth Art" as the Belgians say and understand the evolution of comics in detail.

11. The Brussels Stock Exchange

Built in the 19th century, this is one of the most emblematic buildings to see in Brussels. At the main entrance that gives access to the building, there are two large lions that are located on both sides of the stairs. At the entrance there are also caryatids that represent Protection, Commerce, Victory and the Arts.

Today, the Brussels Stock Exchange is used as a space for concerts and events, so if you plan to visit the building, you should check the exhibition schedule beforehand.

12. Mont des Arts

An essential in your visit to Brussels is this park that is located on a hill between the Place Royale and the Grand Place connecting the city center with the upper area and from where you can have the best views of Brussels. If you want to get another view over the hill, go up to the cafeteria located on the fifth floor of the library, which, in addition to being free, will give you another majestic view of the best monuments in Brussels.

Nearby are the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the Magritte Museum, the Museum of Musical Instruments and the Palace of Fine Arts.

Where to eat in Brussels?

As in all places in Belgium, the cuisine in Brussels is spectacular and is characterized by being quite extensive and with seasonal products from the region.

In Brussels there is a great gastronomic offer where you can taste the most delicious typical dishes of the capital.

4 places to eat in Brussels

Le Marmiton: It is a restaurant located in the center of the city, very close to the Grand Place. Here they serve a multitude of typical dishes such as waterzooi or mussels with fried potatoes.
C'Est Bon C'Est Belge: This restaurant is one of the best options to taste some of the typical dishes of Belgian cuisine. One of their specialties is the Carbonade Flamande, but they have a very varied menu, they even offer a tasting menu with five different dishes in case you can't decide.
Noordzee Mer du Nord: It is perfect to eat quality fish and seafood at a good price. Their specialty is mussels, you can try them for around 7 euros.
Fritland: It boasts of being one of the best places to try the famous French fries, and of course, the mitraillette, which is its specialty.

4 typical dishes of Brussels

The gastronomy and typical cuisine of Brussels is incredible!

Mussels with fries: Eating mussels with fries is a true tradition in Brussels, and you will find it in any bar or restaurant without any problem.
Croquettes de crevettes: These shrimp croquettes are one of the most famous starters in Belgian cuisine.
The chicons au gratin: They are endives rolled with ham and cheese, but they are also gratin with béchamel, in short, a real delicacy! They can be served as a starter or main dish.
Carbonnades Flamandes: This dish is made from braised beef with black beer, onion and sugar. It is a very strong dish and perfect to last a whole day visiting the city.

Brussels with children

Are you going to travel to Brussels with the little ones? All the cultural offer that this city provides is perfect for a family trip. Virtually all tourist visits have an area dedicated to children so they will not get bored at any time.

A getaway in Brussels with children can be a lot of fun! Take a look at the best plans for adults and children in Copenhagen. You sign up?

Mini - Europe

There are many family plans to do in Brussels. Located very close to the Atomium, there is one of the most special attractions in Brussels and one that children will surely love.

It is a representation of the main monuments of Europe in miniature, well exactly at 1/25 scale. This activity is perfect for visiting more than 80 cities in Europe with the family, since it has no more and no less than 350 models, such as the Eiffel Tower, the famous Big Ben or the Acropolis of Athens, among others. It is a mandatory stopping place!

Museum of Natural Sciences

This museum was created thanks to the discovery of 30 skeletons of a species of Iguanodon in Hainaut and it is great to spend some time with the family discovering the world of dinosaurs.

Children will have a great time touring the museum, discovering the more than 600 fossils on display and the didactic exhibition focused on the human body.

yoorney pets logo.png Pet-friendly Brussels

Are you passionate about animals and looking for a different plan? A getaway with your pet is always a good idea. But surely you think, where can they enjoy to their heart's content?

Tourism and pet-friendly getaways have grown in Brussels in recent years. More and more hotels, restaurants and attractions have hung the Pet Friendly sign on their doors. A getaway with your dog is one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have.

Brussels is a very #petfriendly city and that is how we have experienced it. We have been able to do a lot of activities with our dogs!

Dog parks in Brussels

In Brussels, there are more and more green spaces that have been adapted for dogs. Some of these parks require dogs to be on a leash, even so, they are large areas where our furry friends will surely be able to enjoy themselves. Some of these places are: Brussels Park, Fiftieth Anniversary Park, Josaphat Park, Parc Léopold, Parc Roi Baudouin.

Restaurants in Brussels to go with dogs

In Brussels, all breweries allow pets regardless of size, and in general throughout Belgium the vast majority of restaurants also accept dogs. Here we leave you some options: Mamy Louise, Chalet Robinson, CHEZWaWa, Moeder Lambic Original, Picotear 47. What better plan than to go with your most faithful friend to enjoy a delicious meal!

Pet Friendly Hotels in Brussels

This is one of the most important points when choosing a travel destination, there are more and more hotels that allow pets.

Accessible Brussels

Adapted tourism is not a pending issue in Brussels.

We were able to experience it first hand and here are some of our favorite adapted and accessible sites:

Transport: The city of Brussels has adapted public transport, it offers lifts in the metro stations, including assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, there are also tactile pavements and sound signaling at the zebra crossings, the buses have access ramps and many of the taxis are adapted.
Attractions: The vast majority of attractions, museums and cultural centers have adapted facilities so that people with reduced mobility can fully enjoy their visit to Brussels. We recommend that you request the brochure "Be available be. Brussels" at the welcome offices located in Grand Place. Here are the museums and tourist attractions accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Nocturnal Brussels

Enjoy the night life of Brussels. The city hides a multitude of corners with a special charm to have a good time in good company and where you can walk, have a drink and toast.

These are some of our favorite places to party in Brussels!

Beer lovers in Brussels

If good beer accompanied by good food is your thing, here are some recommendations: Delirium Tremends, the most famous in Belgium with a Guinness World Record for being the brewery with the most varieties of beer in the world, today it has more than 3,000 guys; Cantillon, which is the most famous brewery in Brussels; Moeder Lambic, which has delicious craft beers on its menu; Poechenellekelder, located very close to the Manneken Pis; To the Mort Subite, with international fame and the Le Cercueil Brewery, which is one of the rarest breweries in Brussels.

Cocktails in Brussels

For those who prefer cocktails, in this city there are many places where you can have a drink. Some of these places are: La Pharmacie Anglaise, L'Archiduc, Green Lab, Life is beautiful, La Canne à Sucré, Le Café Floréo, Lord Byron, Hortense and humus.

Live music in Brussels

Brussels has a number of venues where you can enjoy the best live music. Here are some places you'll love to visit: L'Archiduc, Sounds Jazz Club, The Music Village, Le Ancienne Belgique and Café Bizon.

Brussels nightclubs

Brussels nightlife stands out as one of the main leisure activities. Les Jeux d Hiver, is the most exclusive nightclub in Brussels; Mirano, with electronic music or R'n'B; Fuse, this nightclub offers electronic music and usually has the best DJs of the moment; Spirito Martini, located in what was an old Anglican church; Bloody Louis, with hip hop, house and electronic music, and ZODIAK, also perfect for electronic music lovers.

How to get to Brussels?

Whenever you have a destination in mind, one of the biggest concerns is getting to the city. The main ways to travel to Copenhagen are by car, by plane, by train and by boat.

How to get to Brussels by car

Although it all depends on the origin. If you decide to go to Brussels from the main Spanish cities, you will go on a road trip through the cities of central Europe, covering more than 1,300 kilometers until you reach Brussels.

How to get to Brussels by train

There are many people who enjoy the trip by train, so let's see how you can travel by rail to this magical city. You can get to Brussels from other European cities such as Paris, Amsterdam or London. One of the main railway companies is the Eurostar with high-speed trains that travel through the Channel Tunnel.

How to get to Brussels by plane

The most common option is to go by plane. Brussels has two airports, Brussels-Zaventem Airport, which is the main airport in Belgium, and Charleroi Airport, which is located 55 km from Brussels. Once there, there are several alternatives to get from the airport to the city center, such as public buses, taxis or private transfers.

How to get around Brussels