Top Attractions in Brussels, Belgium’s Capital City

In Europe's grand city of Brussels, where Art Nouveau architecture towers majestically over picturesque squares and gardens, it's easy to fall in love. From world-class museums to mischievous statues and tasty treats, Belgium's capital is ideal for maximizing your downtime between business meetings. You can reach many of the city's attractions on foot and plenty of sights are within walking distance of each other. So, brush up on some French (or Dutch) phrases and enjoy a quick visit through this city.

1. La Grand-Place

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, La Grand-Place showcases the best of 17^th-century ornamental architecture throughout a group of buildings that serve as the city's commercial and political hub. Rebuilt after Louis XIV's troops crumbled the square in 1695, the restored Hotel de Ville (City Hall) bell tower is the most famous landmark in La Grand-Place. Witness the vivid colors of thousands of blooming begonias in August every other year as the plaza comes alive with its breathtaking floral carpet. If you miss the main event, visit the daily flower market in La Grand-Place to find some flowers to cheer you up.

2. Manneken Pis

After visiting the impressive plaza, Brussels' most famous — or infamous — statue might surprise you. Nonetheless, no trip to this city is complete without seeing Manneken-Pis (literally translated as ‘little man pee’ in Dutch). As you might imagine from the name, the statue depicts a naked young boy "urinating" a constant stream of water. First a hilarious drinking fountain, the statue has become a beloved fixture that has endured the test of time. For almost half the year, city officials have fun dressing the statue in more than 900 different suits, demonstrating the city's joyful spirit. From La Grand-Place, walk just a few blocks south on Rue de l'Etuve to see the notorious bronze landmark.

3. Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule

Just across the Boulevard de l'Empereur is the infinitely more holy sight of Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule. Originally built in the ninth century to pay homage to Archangel Michael, this fully restored Romanesque cathedral will astound you with its intricate stonework and Gothic stained glass. The towers, which stand 64 meters (about 210 feet) tall, were part of on-going additions completed in 1519. Often considered one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe, it houses the mausoleums of the Dukes of Brabant and the Archduke Ernest of Austria.

Masses take place daily, and concerts are scheduled throughout the year. Self-guided tours are allowed when no liturgical services are underway.

4. Musical Instruments Museum

Walk from the cathedral along Rue Royale, past the lovely Parc de Bruxelles to find one of the city's many specialty museums. The Musical Instruments Museum, or MIM, has been open to the public since 1878. Discover the history of your favorite instruments here. Explore the impressive collection of exotic and international instruments, first cultivated from the private collection of François-Joseph Fétis and King Leopold II. For free admission, visit the Art Nouveau- museum on the first Wednesday of the month after 1 p.m.

5. Comic Art Museum

An art museum like no other in central Brussels – walk through the ornate doors and let your imagination take over in this beautiful Art Nouveau building. Belgium has a proud history of comic production and holds the world record for most comic artists per square kilometer. Inside the Belgian Comic Strip Center, you’ll find temporary and permanent exhibitions of drafts and original designs from well-known comics such as Tintin and the Smurfs. Take a guided tour or stroll around the stunning interior showcasing the finest works of the “Ninth art”. 

6. Experience history through Chocolate

If you have a sweet tooth, Brussels is the city for you. The city is famous for its chocolate and sweets, a tradition that began more than a century ago when Jean Neuhaus began experimenting with covering medicine in chocolate. His grandson then transformed this and invented the praline. Spend a few minutes in Wittamer to sample century-old recipes for chocolate, pastries and macaroons before heading to the Place du Grand Sablon, an area overflowing with eclectic antique dealers — and more than a half-dozen chocolatiers.

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