We have crafted a guide about a little gem tucked away in northern Europe—Brussels, the capital of Belgium. The country may be small, but it sure packs a punch. Brussels, the heart of the country, is a delightful blend of all things Belgian.
Walking through the streets of Brussels, you will find yourself surrounded by a medley of amazing architecture, peculiar attractions that embody the Belgian spirit, and a smorgasbord of traditional eats and drinks. Your visit to Brussels will be packed with charming, intriguing experiences.
With so many places to visit in Brussels and things to do in Brussels, planning a trip can seem daunting. We present this guide to help you plan the perfect trip. Let us get started!
Top Places to Visit in Brussels
- Grand Palace
- Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
- St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral
- Parc du Cinquantenaire
- Notre Dame des Victoires au Sablon
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Grand Palace
Considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world, the Grand Palace of Brussels is the city’s heartbeat and one of the best places to visit in Brussels. This square is more than just something to see, it is a one-off experience to visit! Holding centuries of history within its boundaries, this 12th-century marketplace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square has seen it all: vibrant festivals, concerts, trade guilds, and the city's political life over the centuries.
Things to Do at the Grand Palace
- Marvel at the beautiful buildings; every detail is a work of art
- Visit the Town Hall; it is a real showstopper
- Check out the Breadhouse, now housing the City Museum
- Don't miss the Flower Carpet event if you are visiting in August
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Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Enter Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a masterpiece by architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer in the 1830s. This opulent gallery boasts shops, cafes, restaurants, theatres, and apartments. It is among the places to see in Brussels, from everyday folks to renowned artists and writers. This splendid gallery has not just been a shopping hub but a cultural melting pot as well. You will even find a plaque commemorating the first performance of the Lumière Brothers' cinematograph! The gallery is a journey through time.
Things to Do at Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
- Take a stroll while enjoying window shopping
- Try some delicious Belgian chocolates at the many top-class shops
- Catch a classic show at one of the theatres
- Grab a coffee at a café and watch streams of people enjoying life
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Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)
Visit the awe-inspiring St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, a masterpiece that transports you to the 13th century. Its twin towers, a blend of Brabant Gothic styles, speak volumes about its rich history. Built in 1226 with a façade added later, the cathedral by Bernard Van Orley is a repository of tales etched in stone and stunning stained-glass windows. The cathedral is also the final resting place of notable historical figures, making it one of the most enchanting Brussels attractions.
Things to Do at St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)
- Explore the stunning interior, from the nave to the transept
- Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful stained glasswork
- Climb up to the top for a panoramic view of Brussels
- Check out the cathedral's treasury for some historical gems
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Parc du Cinquantenaire
The Cinquantenaire Park is where history, nature, and culture intersect beautifully, a perfect haunt for the curious Brussels tourist. Created in 1880 to celebrate Belgium's 50th year of independence, it features elegant French-style gardens and historical treasures. The park is crowned by a grand triumphal arch, offering a breathtaking view of the capital. As you wander its wide paths, you will encounter architectural wonders and renowned museums. From Victor Horta's Pavilion of Human Passions to Autoworld, something piques everyone's curiosity.
Things to Do at Parc du Cinquantenaire
- Visit the Royal Museums of Art and History
- Check out the Triumphal Arch, a stunning monument
- Enjoy a picnic on the lush lawns amidst structures pregnant with history
- Enjoy a walk around the park and soak up the scenery
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Notre Dame des Victoires au Sablon
Let us talk about the Notre-Dame du Sablon, a stunning late Gothic church in Brussels since the 15th century. Though tall and grand, it started as a small chapel in 1304, built by the city's archers. The church's interior might appear modest, but its beauty lies in its simplicity, bathed in natural light from majestic stained-glass windows. A place steeped in fascinating legends and history, it truly captures the city’s spirit, elevating it among the top Brussels attractions.
Things to Do at Notre Dame des Victoires au Sablon
- Admire the impressive Gothic architecture of the church
- Soak up the tranquillity inside the building
- Take a leisurely walk around the trendy Sablon district
- Try the famous Belgian waffles from a nearby eatery
Best Time to Visit Brussels
Here is what an average year looks like in this fascinating city:
- March to May offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making an ideal sightseeing setting
- June to August are summer months that welcome sunny days and droves of tourists
- September to October brings mild weather and lovely autumn hues, plus attractive hotel deals
- November to February is cold and wet, but it is the festive season, welcoming a magical vibe
Get ready, for Brussels tourist places eagerly await you!
Travel Insurance for Brussels
Let us talk about travel insurance, a very critical aspect. If you are applying for a Schengen visa for Belgium, it is mandatory to have medical insurance. Even if a visa isn’t applicable, we strongly recommend each Brussels tourist get insured. Medical costs can be steep for foreigners, and insurance can safeguard the insured from hefty bills. Plus, travel insurance policies offer protection, covering medical expenses up to €100,000 in Belgium and the Schengen region. Better safe than sorry, right?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the relevant industry. It is advised to verify the relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.
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