Top 10 Things To Do In Brussels Belgium
Typically overlooked by many sightseeing fiends, this destination hints at French artistry, while all the while maintaining its own uniqueness and character. From grandiose structures, to the scrumptious waffles found hidden between these uneven streets, you're sure to find plenty of wonderful things to do, and find that this is one of your favorite all-time destinations, just like I have.
1. Grand Place
This is literally the place to go if you want that iconic ‘I went to Brussels and I did cool things’ Instagram post to make all of your friends jealous. Grab a waffle and gaze at the incredible Gothic architecture draping over all spectrums of your vision.
2. Manneken Pis
I have so many questions about this one. Okay I mean I get it, I’ve looked into the story behind it (and so should you but I’m not your history teacher so go find a Wikipedia page that’ll explain it) but I seriously can’t figure out this city’s obsession with this statue. It’s literally everywhere. You can actually feel the presence of it everywhere you go - from the actual statue, to the millions of replicas scattered in every bar, restaurant, and hotel you walk into. Horrifying. But worth checking out because it is pretty cool despite how worshipped it is.
3. Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert
Other than the fact that some of the fanciest chocolatiers reside within these walls, this mall is something you should be sure to capture on your camera. Other than being super popular and fun to look at, there’s not much else to do here, but being surrounded by tons of chocolate might inspire you (hint hint, wink wink).
4. Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula
For those that don’t know, this is where the royal family is wed – and it’s quite clear as to why they do so once you walk in. This is by far the tallest church I’ve seen in Europe thus far, so be sure to watch where you’re stepping because you’ll be gaping at the ceiling for quite a ridiculous amount of time.
5. Belvue Museum
Easily the most underrated part of this city. If you’re anything like me, you’ll enjoy learning about the culture and history of the place you’re visiting. Belgium has such an interesting past, and all of their milestones and successes are showcased in a refreshingly modern format. But wait, there’s more. Located below this museum is the Coudenberg palace, which was unfortunately burnt down and the Belvue Palace was built right on top of it, even though the remnants are still accessible to tour and something I highly recommend checking out.
6. Chocolate Shopping
I think this one might go without saying, but Belgian chocolate is arguably the best chocolate in the entire world. Some of the original companies that were the first to popularize this yummy treat are still in existence today for you to please your taste buds. They do range on the pricier side, but I’ll wholeheartedly admit that it was by far the most amazing chocolate I’ve ever tasted.
7. Place Royal
With a beautiful view of Brussels, you’ll be filling your poor camera roll at the flash of a light. Luckily for me, I was there after a recent rain storm, giving the Place Royal a glow that’s rarely found in the world.
8. Parc Du Cinquantenaire
Similar to the Arc des Royal and Berlin Wall, this monument towers over the city and can be seen from impressive distances. But definitely check your map and see its location in comparison to yours – your feet will thank you ten times over.
9. Explore
Brussels has a ridiculous amount of things to do, but what makes it fun is that you’ll get lost amongst these streets regardless of how well prepared you are. Whether you're scaling a cobblestone hill, or running into yet another monument dedicated and honoring something, you'll never get bored.
10. Mural Hunting
This one’s a toughy because the murals are so randomly dispersed amongst the streets. I was given a map when I checked into my hostel that pointed out all of the best one's to see, but a map isn't necessarily the best way to stumble upon these treasures. Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled and I guarantee you’ll see something!
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