What to do in Brussels

Activities, attractions and tours

La Grand Place showing heritage architecture, a square or plaza and street scenes
La Grand Place showing heritage architecture, a square or plaza and street scenes
Place du Grand Sablon
Brussels which includes night scenes and a city
Mont des Arts which includes a city and a park as well as a couple

Brussels Attractions

Brussels, the center and capital of Europe, offers so much to tourists that many people find it hard to stay for only a short amount of time. Historical landmarks, beer houses, and art museums are just some of the many things to do in Brussels.

While there are many Brussels excursions to experience during your vacation, the best place to visit when you first touch down is the Rue des Bouchers. Avid shoppers will appreciate the mixture local shopping spots and high end retailers which call the Rue des Bouchers home. Be sure to stop by one of the local coffee shops for a warm cappuccino before you begin your shopping spree.

Because Brussels is also known as a major art city, Expedia recommends tourists visit some the city's many Art Nouveau buildings which were built over one hundred years ago. Located in Brussels' historical district, each one of these structures was designed and built by 19th century artists and architects. Those who are interested in visiting this area would find it wise to take one of the many Brussels tours available.

One of the top tourist places to visit in the city is the Atomium. Built during the 1958 Worlds Fair, tourists can take an escalator all the way to the top of this structure to enjoy beautiful sunset views of this wonderful city and some of the countryside of Belgium. The Atomium is known as one of the best Brussels activities and should not be missed.

For their love of comics, Brussels is also known as the Comic City. People come from all over the world to take tours of the many comic museums, including the famous Belgian Comic Strip Center. This must see attraction will both educate and entertain you at the same time. Read about the unique history of comic strips in Belgium while enjoying some of the many entertaining stories during the tour.

For the adults in your family, don't forget to taste some of Belgium's famous locally brewed beer. Some of the breweries in Brussels have been unchanged in over one hundred years.

The easiest way to enjoy the many attractions in Brussels is to take a guided tour. A map will be needed for those who wish to venture out on their own.


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What to do in Brussels


Discover the most popular places to visit in Brussels

Explore areas of Brussels

La Grand Place showing a castle, heritage architecture and night scenes

Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk

5/5(9 area reviews)

Take time in Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk to visit attractions like La Grand Place and Rue des Bouchers. You might also appreciate the interesting museums, and you can hop on the metro at Bourse-Beurs Station to see more of the city.

Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk
Mittelalterliche Architektur am Grand Place in Brüssel

Grand-Place

While visiting Grand-Place, you might make a stop by sights like La Grand Place and The King's House.

Grand-Place
Jubilee Park showing a park and heritage architecture

European Quarter

4/5(13 area reviews)

You might take some time to check out the lively bars in European Quarter. Spend some time visiting top spots like Schumanplein, and catch the metro at Maalbeek-Maelbeek Station or Arts-Loi - Kunst-Wet Station to see more of the area.

European Quarter
Abbaye de la Cambre in Brussels, Ixelles, Belgium known from 13 century

Ixelles

Explore the vibrant Matongé district, boasting diverse shops and eateries, or unwind at scenic spots like Ixelles Ponds and Tenbosch Park. Don't miss the Art Nouveau houses by Victor Horta!

Ixelles
House and Atelier of Victor Horta

Sint-Gillis

Discover architectural gems like Art Nouveau houses by Victor Horta and Paul Hankar, and explore the Horta Museum in this multicultural municipality. Enjoy easy access to public transport, including trams and buses, for seamless exploration.

Sint-Gillis
Brussels Park which includes a garden

Quartier Royal - Koninklijke Wijk

Get to know Quartier Royal - Koninklijke Wijk and its many features like its museums and live music. You might want to explore sights like Royal Palace of Brussels and Place Royale, and you can jump on the metro at Palais Tram Stop or Royale Tram Stop to get around the city.

Quartier Royal - Koninklijke Wijk

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Brussels

Frequently asked questions

Is Brussels worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Brussels is visit Royal Palace of Brussels. Tick this leading attraction off your list, then discover more of this area's bars and pubs and dining.
How do I spend a day in Brussels?
Royal Palace of Brussels and Mini-Europe are two excellent places to begin your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Brussels while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Brussels?
Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the top tourist attractions in Brussels and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Brussels?
Three days in Brussels is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests book for three days on average. Royal Palace of Brussels, Belgian Comic Strip Centre and Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Antwerp.
Is Brussels a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Brussels. Several top sights, including Royal Palace of Brussels and Belgian Comic Strip Centre, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Brussels's best neighbourhoods, Lower Town is 0.48 kilometres away from downtown, while Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk is 0.16 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Brussels with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Brussels with kids.

What to do in Brussels for adults?
Cantillon Brewery and Brussels Beer Project are just a few of the things to do in Brussels. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Brussels?
In Brussels, Cinquantenaire Park is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Brussels.

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