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Brussels is the most underrated city in Europe and you will be surprised by some quirky, fun, and charming places hidden in all the corners. The beautiful and friendly city may not have classic castles or rivers flowing within, but you will find some stunning squares and exquisite art galleries, laid-back cafes, gorgeous streets, and some of the best beers. With multiple places to visit in Brussels, this place reflects a small city vibe where you can walk around most of its tourist attractions and diverse neighborhoods to explore.
10 Best Places To Visit In Brussels
Explore vibrant culture and stunning architecture with our guide to the 10 best places to visit in Brussels, from enchanting squares to world-class museums.
1. The Grand Place
Photo: Joseolgon / Wikimedia Commons
It is a beautiful square of incredible gold-trimmed buildings and the main attraction of the Grand Place is the town hall built in the 15th century. The square’s architecture and historic significance have made it to the UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is lit up on Christmas with charming markets and visitors can enjoy shopping or just hanging out strolling in the festive season or any other day. The Grand Place attracts tourists from all over the world in any season. There is a huge flower carpet in the centre at this place.
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to October
2. The Museum Of Musical Instruments
Photo: Jim Barton / Wikimedia Commons
This museum has 7000 musical instruments for you to explore. You will see some unusual instruments that you may not even know how it sounds but the best part is that your headphones will play them so that you know the instruments better. It has instruments from small simple to massive ones dating from different periods. You can also get the best view of the city on the 10th floor of the museum. No wonder this museum is a popular tourist attraction in the city.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday – Sunday)
Entry Fee: €13
3. Atomium
Photo: Suicasmo / Wikimedia Commons
The Atomium is a significant landmark and museum of the city. Since its creation for the Brussels World Fair in 1958, it has been attracting tourists from all over. Visitors love the different exhibitions and the restaurant on top of the sphere. You can visit all the places except the three of the spheres. This 102-foot-tall structure shows the composition of an iron crystal, designed by André Waterkeyn to celebrate the importance of science.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: €35 approx Adult, €30 Senior, €17 Children
4. The Museum Of Cocoa And Chocolate
Photo: Musée du Cacao et du Chocolat / Wikimedia Commons
No one loves chocolate as far as it goes and the most exciting thing in Brussels is that the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate will turn your holiday into a yummy one. There are chocolate sculptures and many free samples of this delicious treat. There are also exhibits of how Belgian chocolate is made and a melted chocolate spinning wheel for dipping. The museum has important information about the world’s favorite Belgian Chocolate. The Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate is privately owned and organises multiple workshops to attend.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: €13 for adults, €11 for seniors, €11 for children
5. Place Du Jeu De Balle Market
Photo: DimiTalen / Wikimedia Commons
This 17th-century flea market is a favorite among locals and tourists. If you love to collect rare art pieces or exquisite items of clothes, shoes, accessories, or even books or CDs, you will find it all in this bustling market which has been in operation since 1893. It is a great place for strolling and photography as you will find artifacts and vintage items dating back a hundred years. Tourists can also taste the yummy street food at this market.
Timings: 7 AM – 2 PM
Location: Marolles
6. Manneken Pis
Photo: Trougnouf / Wikimedia Commons
Who would have thought a statue of a boy peeing in the fountain below would become the most-loved place to hang out? Designed by Jerome Duquesnoy in 1619, this place has become an important part of Brussels, and locals dress up the statue for events that are conducted in the city. The replica is believed to have been dressed up at least 1000 times.The place represents the joy of the Brussels citizens. This is a typical bronze fountain sculpture. Your trip to Brussels will be complete by taking a photo with the oldest citizen of Brussels, displaying innocence and playfulness.
Entry Fee: Free
Timing: 10 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)
7. Bois De La Cambre Park
Photo: Terez Ruby / Wikimedia Commons
This park in the south of the city center is bordered by the Samoan forest spread over 100 acres and is laid out in the English style. People love to come here for picnics and on weekends, the park is closed to cars making it an ideal place for walking, biking, and rollerblading. There are also boat and pony rides in the park to enjoy. In the middle of the Park’s lake lies an island called Robinson which has many restaurants offering delicious seasonal cuisine.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
8. The Gothic Cathedral Of St. Michael And St. Gudula
Photo: Flocci Nivis / Wikimedia Commons
The Cathedral is famous for its Gothic architecture and is located in the heart of Brussels. It was built in the 13th century. The cathedral’s renovations continued over the years. The cathedral’s pointed arches ripped vaults, and intricate stone carvings characterizing its gothic architecture mesmerize its visitors. The best time to visit is during the Christmas season when you can attend concerts and find carolers making the season merrier.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 PM (Monday-Friday), 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM (Saturday), 2 PM – 6 PM (Sundays)
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Esp. de la Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles
9. Mont Des Arts
Photo: Flocci Nivis / Wikimedia Commons
Mont des Arts is a beautifully designed arts reserve located on a hill overlooking the city of Brussels. King Leopold II initially envisioned the view and more changes took place in the 1950s when this area became an arts center. This section has well-manicured gardens, ornamental water fountains, and terraced steps leading to the various cultural institutions found within the vicinity. For its modern and old-age architectural combination, the Mont des Arts reflects the art of Brussels.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
10. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a lavish shopping complex located in Brussels, Belgium, was inaugurated in 1847 and ranks as one of the oldest shopping centers in Europe. Belonging to architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar, the gallery features magnificent Renaissance Revival architecture with a glass roof that illuminates the interior with natural light. Consisting of three parts, namely, Galerie de la Reine, Galerie du Roi, and Galerie des Princes, it accommodates elegant clothing stores, shops for artisanal chocolates, theaters, and coffee houses. Its beauty and elegance made it a bohemian enclave where artists, writers, and the elite mingled.
Timings: 24*7
Location: Galleria du roi 5
A trip to Brussels is compelling due to its history, art, and culture providing the ingredients of a perfect vacation. Whether it may be the Grand Place or the Galeries Royale’s Saint-Hubert, this city is full of eye-catching architectural beauty. Places to visit in Brussels are unique, it also includes vibrant street art, top-notch museums, and delicious food, especially the chocolates, waffles, and beer for which it is famous. So, book a trip with TripXL and unlock your new travel experience in this diverse city.
Cover Photo: Thomas Somme / Unsplash
