Brussels On Map Of Europe
Brussels On Map Of Europe
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, don’t miss the chance to explore the charming city of Brussels. Known as the capital of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, from mouth-watering cuisine to vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and much more. Let’s get started!
Top Attractions
Brussels is a city that’s full of history and culture, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top things to see and do:
Grand Place
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and one of the most beautiful and historic squares in Europe. It’s surrounded by ornate 17th-century buildings, including the City Hall and the Breadhouse. At night, the square is lit up, and it’s a magical sight to behold.
Atomium
The Atomium is a unique structure that was built for the 1958 World’s Fair. It’s a giant steel atom that’s over 100 meters tall, and visitors can take a lift to the top for stunning views of the city.
Manneken Pis
This small bronze statue of a boy peeing into a fountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Brussels. It’s been a symbol of the city since the 17th century and is dressed up in different costumes throughout the year.
Hidden Gems
While Brussels has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few of our favorites:
Comic Book Route
Brussels is the birthplace of Tintin, and the city has a long history of comics. The Comic Book Route is a self-guided tour that takes you past over 50 murals of famous comic book characters, including Tintin, Lucky Luke, and the Smurfs.
Parc du Cinquantenaire
This beautiful park is located in the heart of Brussels and features a triumphal arch, a museum, and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.
Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
This beautiful shopping arcade is one of the oldest in Europe and features high-end shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and indulge in a bit of luxury.
Food Scene
Belgian cuisine is known for its waffles, chocolate, and beer, but there’s much more to discover in Brussels. Here are a few must-try dishes:
Moules Frites
This classic Belgian dish consists of mussels cooked in white wine and served with crispy fries. It’s a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for a chilly day.
Stoemp
Stoemp is a traditional Belgian dish that’s made with mashed potatoes and vegetables. It’s often served with sausage or bacon and is a comforting and filling meal.
Speculoos
Speculoos are thin, crispy cookies that are flavored with cinnamon and brown sugar. They’re a popular snack in Belgium and make a great souvenir to take home.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Brussels can be an expensive city to visit, but there are plenty of ways to save money. Here are a few tips:
Buy a Brussels Card
The Brussels Card gives you free entry to over 40 museums and attractions, as well as discounts at restaurants and shops. It’s a great way to save money if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
Eat Street Food
While there are plenty of restaurants in Brussels, the street food scene is also thriving. Grab a waffle or a cone of fries from a food truck, and you’ll get a delicious meal for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant.
Use Public Transportation
Brussels has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. Using public transportation is much cheaper than taking taxis, and it’s a great way to get around the city.
Outdoor Adventures
While Brussels is mostly known for its architecture and culture, there are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are a few ideas:
Sonian Forest
The Sonian Forest is a beautiful forest that’s located just outside of Brussels. It’s a great place to go for a hike or a bike ride and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bois de la Cambre
Bois de la Cambre is a large park that’s located in the heart of Brussels. It features a lake, a rose garden, and plenty of walking paths.
Brussels by Bike
Brussels is a bike-friendly city, and there are plenty of bike rental shops around town. Rent a bike and explore the city’s many parks and bike paths.
Family-Friendly Activities
Brussels is a great city for families, with plenty of activities that kids will love. Here are a few ideas:
Mini-Europe
Mini-Europe is a miniature park that features scale models of famous European landmarks. Kids will love seeing the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and other famous sites in miniature form.
Brussels Aquarium
The Brussels Aquarium is a small but charming aquarium that’s perfect for kids. It features a variety of fish and marine life, as well as interactive exhibits.
Bruparck
Bruparck is an amusement park that’s located next to the Atomium. It features rides, attractions, and a water park.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit different in Brussels, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy. Here are a few ideas:
The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken
These beautiful greenhouses are only open to the public for a few weeks each year, but they’re well worth a visit. They feature a variety of exotic plants and flowers and are a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.
The Musical Instruments Museum
This unique museum features over 8,000 musical instruments from around the world. Visitors can see and hear instruments from every era and culture.
The Brussels Sewer Museum
The Brussels Sewer Museum is a quirky but fascinating museum that takes visitors through the city’s underground sewer system. It’s a unique way to learn about the city’s history and infrastructure.
Natural Wonders
While Brussels is mostly a city of architecture and culture, there are also some natural wonders to explore. Here are a few ideas:
The Sonian Forest
As mentioned above, the Sonian Forest is a beautiful forest that’s located just outside of Brussels. It’s a great place to go for a hike or a bike ride and enjoy some fresh air.
Bois de la Cambre
Also mentioned above, Bois de la Cambre is a large park that features a lake, a rose garden, and plenty of walking paths. It’s a peaceful place to escape the city and enjoy some nature.
Hallerbos
Hallerbos is a beautiful forest that’s located just outside of Brussels. In the spring, the forest floor is covered in bluebells, creating a stunning sight.
Vibrant Nightlife
Brussels is a city that knows how to have a good time, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy. Here are a few hotspots:
Delirium Café
Delirium Café is a famous bar that’s known for its extensive beer menu. With over 2,000 beers to choose from, it’s the perfect place to try something new.
Fuse
Fuse is a popular nightclub that’s known for its techno music. It’s a great place to dance the night away.
Brussels Jazz Weekend
If you’re a fan of jazz music, don’t miss the annual Brussels Jazz Weekend. It features over 100 free concerts in venues around the city.
Local Markets
Brussels has a thriving market scene, with plenty of opportunities to shop for local goods. Here are a few markets to check out:
Marché du Midi
Marché du Midi is one of the largest markets in Europe and features over 450 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to clothing. It’s open on Sundays and is a