Top Things to Do in Brussels
About the City
Brussels, Belgium: A Waffle of a City Nestled in the heart of Europe lies Brussels, a city where history and modernity blend like the finest chocolate. The air is alive with the scent of brewing beer and crackling frites, tempting locals and visitors alike. This cosmopolitan hub speaks with a voice of many tongues, thanks to its role as the de facto capital of the European Union. With every step, one can stumble upon whimsical street art celebrating comic culture—keep your eyes peeled for Tintin and the Smurfs! The iconic Atomium sparkles under the sun’s gaze, a metallic reminder of the 1958 World’s Fair, while the rebellious Manneken Pis cheekily embodies the city's irreverent spirit. However, Brussels is not without its quirks. The weather can be as moody as a surrealist painting, often dousing unsuspecting pedestrians with rain when least expected. Traffic can challenge the patience of saints, and the bureaucracy, well, let’s just say it has a charisma all of its own. This city, a waffle woven from threads of chaos and charm, invites you to savor its contradictions. Brussels thrives in its organized disarray, proving that, much like the intricate lace it’s known for, the beauty often lies in the complexity.
Things to Do in Brussels
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Tuck Into Brussels Sprouts
Food & DrinkEver wondered why they're called 'Brussels' sprouts? Time to find out! These little green powerhouses are a staple on Belgian tables. Roasted, steamed, or stir-fried, they’re a delightful treat that m...
Let's Go Fly a Kite!
OutdoorsOn a breezy day, why not dash through the fields, kite fluttering behind like a colorful bird? Grab a uniquely awesome kite and claim your sky space. Oh, and try not to get tangled with the local avia...
Take the Comic Book Route Challenge
The UnexpectedChannel your inner superhero on a quirky quest to locate all the comic strip murals scattered around Brussels. This is a blend of treasure hunting and art appreciation, while the streets of Brussels b...
Play Giant Chess in the Park
The UnexpectedIt's like normal chess, but you'll need to do your stretches first for this one! Get strategic with life-sized pawns in the middle of a quaint Brussels park. Checkmate (or be checkmated) under the ope...
Embark on a Trappist Beer Pilgrimage
The UnexpectedPut on your beer pilgrim hat and sample some liquid gold at the very source! Track down authentic Trappist monasteries on the outskirts of Brussels. These monastic brews are rare, divine, and have mor...
Navigate the Labyrinth of the Coudenberg
The UnexpectedReady to channel your inner Indiana Jones or Lara Croft? Delve into the underground Coudenberg Palace, a subterranean wonder that was once a grand palace fit for royalty. Now it's your turn to explore...
Paddle in the Heart of Brussels
OutdoorsTake to the water and paddle your stress away. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or it's your maiden voyage, the city's waterways offer a unique perspective on Brussels' beauty. Glide past sights and ...
Pedal Past the Political Powerhouses
OutdoorsReady to get those legs moving and heart pumping? Hop on a bike and spin 'round the European Quarter, where the air's buzzing with political banter and the buildings scream law-making grandeur. Don't ...
Go Fish in the City!
OutdoorsDrop a line in one of Brussels' many ponds or lakes. Whether you're a pro angler or just fishing for a compliment, enjoy the thrill of the catch in an unexpected urban setting. Just remember to catch ...
Unleash Your Inner Tarzan
OutdoorsFancy dangling from trees and walking on air? Head over to a ropes course and let your inner monkey run wild! Climb, swing, and zip through the treetops. Just remember: it's all fun and games until so...
Indulge in Stoofvlees/Frites
Food & DrinkRoll up your sleeves for a scrumptious dive into Stoofvlees, also known as Belgian beef stew. This is not your grandma's stew – it's a hearty concoction slow-cooked to perfection with beer and paired ...
Roam the Halls of the Royal Palace
SightsWant to walk in the shoes of royalty? The Royal Palace is your ticket! Though you won't bump into the king, you can still roam the plush corridors and imagine you're the ruler of a realm, if only for ...
Admire the Mont des Arts
SightsStride up to the Mont des Arts and you'll be rewarded with a cultural cocktail of art, gardens, and striking panoramas. The spot is dynamite for Instagram-worthy shots, especially at sunset. Get your ...
Ponder over the Palace of Justice
SightsPut your thinking cap on and marvel at the colossal Palace of Justice. With its grand facade and imposing dome, it's a heavyweight of architectural splendor. Just imagine all the wheelings and dealing...
Boggle at the Brussels Town Hall Spire
SightsReady to crane your neck? The Brussels Town Hall spire will have you gawking upwards like a dazzled tourist seeing skyscrapers for the first time. This gothic masterpiece towers over the Grand Place, ...
Savor Belgian Frites
Food & DrinkNo visit to Brussels is complete without indulging in some frites – that's 'fries' for us non-locals. These aren't just any potatoes; they're double-fried, thick-cut pieces of golden perfection, usual...
Nibble on a Brussels Mitraillette
Food & DrinkGet ready to engage in some serious munching warfare with the mitraillette, a monstrous Belgian sandwich that's armed to the teeth with fried meat, heaps of frites, and a barrage of sauce, all stuffed...
Scoop Up Some Speculoos
Food & DrinkBrace yourself for a cookie invasion that'll rock your world! Speculoos isn't your average biscuit; it's a spiced slice of paradise, crisp with a sweet, caramelized flavor and a hint of cinnamon kick....
Tickle Your Taste Buds at a Chocolate Workshop
The UnexpectedReady to graduate from chocolate lover to chocolate maker? Dive into a hands-on chocolate workshop and craft your own Belgian treats. You'll get the down-low on tempering, molding, and, of course, tas...
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