Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a vibrant and historic city that offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and architecture. From its picturesque town squares and medieval streets to its modern business district and world-class museums, Brussels is a city that truly has something for everyone. In this section, we will take a closer look at this fascinating city, exploring its rich history and getting to know modern Brussels.

A Brief History of Brussels

The history of Brussels dates back to the 10th century when a small settlement was established on the banks of the Senne River. Over the centuries, the settlement grew and developed, becoming an important center of trade and industry. In the 12th century, the Count of Leuven made Brussels his capital, and the city continued to grow and prosper.

During the Middle Ages, Brussels was a center of the textile industry, and its cloth was highly sought after throughout Europe. The city was also an important center of learning, home to several universities and the prestigious Bibliothèque Royale de Belgique (Royal Library of Belgium).

In the 16th century, Brussels was at the center of the Protestant Reformation, and many of the city's leading citizens embraced the new faith. This led to a period of religious conflict, and the city was besieged several times by the armies of the Catholic Spanish Netherlands.

In the 19th century, Brussels underwent a period of rapid industrialization, and the city's population grew rapidly. The city also became a center of the Art Nouveau movement, and many of its most famous buildings, including the Hôtel Tassel and the Maison du Peuple, were built during this period.

Getting to Know Modern Brussels

Today, Brussels is a thriving, modern city with a population of over 1.2 million people. The city is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, making it an important center of international diplomacy.

One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Grand Place, a beautiful town square surrounded by ornate guild halls and the stunning Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Other must-see sights in Brussels include the Atomium, a giant steel atom originally built for the 1958 World Expo; the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Belgian King; and the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous Belgian surrealist painter.

Brussels is also known for its delicious food, including its famous waffles, frites (french fries), and beer. The city is home to over 100 breweries, and its beer is exported all over the world.

Top Tourist Attractions in Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city steeped in history, culture, and culinary delights. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you won't want to miss during your visit to Brussels.

The Grand Place

No trip to Brussels would be complete without a visit to the Grand Place, the city's stunning town square. Surrounded by ornate guild halls and the stunning Hôtel de Ville (City Hall), the Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful squares in the world.

Whether you're exploring the square's many cafes and shops, attending one of the many events held there throughout the year, or simply taking in the breathtaking architecture, the Grand Place is a must-see attraction in Brussels.

Atomium

The Atomium is a unique and iconic landmark in Brussels. Originally built for the 1958 World Expo, the Atomium is a giant steel atom that stands over 300 feet tall. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the structure for stunning views of the city, or explore the various spheres that make up the atom, each of which is home to a different exhibition.

Manneken Pis

No visit to Brussels would be complete without a trip to see the city's most famous resident - Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a little boy peeing into a fountain. While the statue may be small, it's one of the most visited attractions in Brussels and has become a symbol of the city's playful spirit.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is the official residence of the Belgian King and is located in the heart of Brussels. While the King himself does not live there, the palace is used for official functions and ceremonies. Visitors can take a tour of the palace's stunning rooms, including the Mirror Room, the Throne Room, and the Gala Dining Room.

Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral

Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Brussels. The cathedral is dedicated to the city's patron saint and is home to many beautiful works of art, including stained glass windows, tapestries, and sculptures. Visitors can climb to the top of the cathedral's tower for stunning views of the city.

Museums and Cultural Experiences in Brussels

Brussels is not only a city with stunning architecture and delicious food, but it is also a city rich in culture and history. The city is home to many world-class museums and cultural experiences that offer visitors a glimpse into its rich past and present. Here are some of the top museums and cultural experiences that you won't want to miss during your visit to Brussels.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts is a group of museums in Brussels that showcase the works of Belgian and international artists. The museums include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, these museums house a vast collection of works spanning from the 15th century to the present day. Visitors can see works by famous artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and René Magritte.

Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is a unique museum in Brussels that showcases a vast collection of musical instruments from around the world. The museum's collection includes over 8,000 instruments, ranging from ancient instruments to modern ones. Visitors can see and hear instruments from every continent, and the museum's interactive exhibits allow visitors to try their hand at playing some of the instruments.

Museum of the City of Brussels

The Museum of the City of Brussels is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Brussels. The museum is located in the Maison du Roi, a stunning Gothic building on the Grand Place. Visitors can learn about the history of Brussels from its earliest days to the present, and see artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city's rich cultural heritage. The museum's collection includes paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the city's past.

Comic Strip Center

The Comic Strip Center is a museum in Brussels dedicated to the art of comic strips. The museum is located in a stunning Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta. Visitors can learn about the history of comic strips in Belgium and see original artwork from some of the country's most famous comic strip artists, including Hergé, the creator of Tintin. The museum's collection includes over 7,000 original comic strip drawings, as well as interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.

Brussels Food and Drink

Brussels is a city that is famous for its delicious food and drink. From its world-renowned chocolate and beer to its delicious waffles and frites, Brussels is a food lover's paradise. Here are some of the top food and drink experiences that you won't want to miss during your visit to Brussels.

Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate is famous around the world for its rich, creamy taste and high-quality ingredients. Brussels is home to many world-class chocolatiers, including Neuhaus, Godiva, and Leonidas. Visitors can take a chocolate-making workshop to learn how to make their own chocolate or visit one of the many chocolate shops to sample the delicious treats.

Belgian Beer

Belgian beer is another famous export, and Brussels is home to over 100 breweries. The city is famous for its abbey beers, lambics, and fruit beers. Visitors can take a beer-tasting tour or visit one of the many breweries to learn about the brewing process and sample the delicious beers.

Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try during your visit to Brussels. These delicious treats are made with a light, fluffy batter and are served with a variety of toppings, including whipped cream, strawberries, and chocolate. Visitors can find waffles at street vendors, cafes, and restaurants throughout the city.

Frites

Frites, or Belgian fries, are another famous dish in Brussels. These delicious fries are made with fresh potatoes and are fried twice to create a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Visitors can find frites at street vendors throughout the city, and they are usually served with a variety of sauces, including mayonnaise, ketchup, and tartar sauce.

Brussels Shopping and Entertainment

Brussels is not only a city rich in history, culture, and cuisine, but it is also a city with a vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. From high-end boutiques to quirky vintage shops, Brussels has something for every shopper. And with its many entertainment options, including opera, theater, and comedy, there is never a shortage of things to do in Brussels.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

One of the most iconic shopping destinations in Brussels is the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This stunning glass-covered shopping arcade was built in the mid-19th century and is home to a variety of high-end boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can find everything from designer fashion and jewelry to books and chocolates. The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping experience in Brussels.

Brussels Fashion

Brussels is a city with a thriving fashion scene, and visitors can find everything from high-end designer boutiques to quirky vintage shops. The city is home to many talented fashion designers, including Olivier Theyskens, Dries Van Noten, and Ann Demeulemeester. Visitors can explore the city's many shopping districts, including the trendy Avenue Louise and the up-and-coming Dansaert district. The city is also home to several fashion museums and exhibitions, including the ModeMuseum and the Fashion and Lace Museum.

La Monnaie Opera House

La Monnaie Opera House is one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in Brussels. This stunning 19th-century opera house is home to a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts. Visitors can take a tour of the opera house or attend a performance to experience the city's rich cultural heritage.

Belgian Comic Strip Route

Belgium is famous for its comic strips, and Brussels is home to the Belgian Comic Strip Route. This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through the city's many comic strip murals and landmarks. Visitors can see murals featuring famous Belgian comic strip characters, such as Tintin and The Smurfs, and learn about the history of Belgian comics.

Practical Information for Travelers

Getting to and Around Brussels

Brussels is easily accessible by air, train, and road. The city has two main airports, Brussels Airport and Charleroi Brussels South Airport, which offer flights to and from destinations around the world. The city is also well-connected by train, with high-speed trains linking Brussels to other major European cities, including Paris, Amsterdam, and London.

Once in Brussels, there are many transportation options available, including the metro, bus, tram, and taxi. The city's public transportation system is reliable and affordable, and visitors can purchase tickets at kiosks located throughout the city. For those who prefer to explore on foot, Brussels is a walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas.

Accommodation Options

Brussels offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels and boutique bed-and-breakfasts to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals, there is something for everyone in Brussels. Visitors can choose to stay in the city center, close to major attractions and amenities, or in one of the city's many charming neighborhoods.

Best Time to Visit Brussels

The best time to visit Brussels is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. During the summer months, the city can be quite busy with tourists, and the weather can be hot and humid. Winter in Brussels can be cold and damp, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, and there are many festive events and activities to enjoy.

Tips for Staying Safe and Healthy in Brussels

Brussels is generally a safe city, but visitors should take the same precautions they would in any major city. It is important to keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas, and to avoid poorly lit streets and alleys at night. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid areas that appear to be unsafe.

When it comes to staying healthy in Brussels, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding contact with sick individuals. Tap water in Brussels is safe to drink, and there are many pharmacies and medical facilities throughout the city. Visitors should also consider purchasing travel health insurance before their trip to ensure they are covered in case of an emergency.