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Things to do in Brussels

Belgium’s capital mixes craft beer, bespoke chocolate, and waffles with a melting pot of European culture.

Our most recommended things to do in Brussels

From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour

1. From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour

Discover 2 of Flanders’ most enchanting cities and follow your guide back in time on a day tour. Choose between a private and a shared option. Walk through both cities and see some of their most famous landmarks, including Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral of Ghent, Bruges' Old Town, and the Lake of Love. Ghent’s medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere will impress you as you visit Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Mystic Lamb painting (option), and pass by the Castle of the Counts of Flanders the picturesque medieval harbor Graslei and much more. In Bruges, you will enjoy the peaceful Lake of Love and the old beguinage. With your guide, discover the city and its cobbled streets on foot and you also have the option to enjoy a pleasant boat trip along the narrow canals.

Brussels: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

2. Brussels: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Uncover the city's hidden gems with a hop-on hop-off bus ticket. Enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace, hopping off at whatever stops catch your eye. See the city's most iconic sights – and maybe even some off-the-beaten-path treasures – with both the blue and the red routes. Hop on the red route and see top sights including the Palace of Fine Arts, the Sablons quarter, and the European Parliament. Look out at museums including the Musical Instruments Museum, Horta Museum, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Stop at Place Royale and enjoy breathtaking views. On the blue route, admire Saints-Michel-et-Gudule Cathedral, the Botanical Gardens, and more. Experience the city's authentic side and visit the Marolles neighborhood. This vibrant area offers a mix of old and new, traditional cuisine, vintage shops, and a festive atmosphere.

Brussels: Belgian Chocolate Workshop

3. Brussels: Belgian Chocolate Workshop

Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate during this chocolate workshop at The Belgian Chocolate Makers in Brussels. Roll up your sleeves and follow alongside a chocolatier to make your own chocolate bar, truffles, and more. Enjoy a hot chocolate or a glass of refreshing water while you work. Start the day with a warm welcome from Elisabetta, your chocolate maker instructor for the day. She'll give you a short introduction to the world of Belgian chocolate so you can take home an array of chocolate-making secrets. After the intro, the real fun begins with a demonstration of chocolate tempering on a marble table. It’s then time to have a go yourself and make your own chocolate treats with the help of Elisabetta and her assistants. Make your very own personalized chocolate bar and some tasty mendicants and truffles using the original chocolate from Haiti. As you create, hear about ruby chocolate, a newly discovered cocoa bean that is 100% natural but which creates incredibly pink chocolate treats. Taste a real cocoa bean and a delicious liqueur de cacao. As you work, try the 3 different origin chocolates: Philippines (Mana), Congo (Ituri), and the illustrious ruby chocolate. During the activity, enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate on cold days or a glass of cool water on warm days. Before you leave, get some leaflets describing the ins and outs of cocoa production and enjoy a 10% discount in the store. At the end of the experience, pack up your chocolates and take them home with you to share with friends and family (or you can keep your sweet treats all to yourself).

From Brussels: Luxembourg Tour with Dinant Visit

4. From Brussels: Luxembourg Tour with Dinant Visit

Discover the landlocked Grand Duchy of Luxembourg on a full-day tour from Brussels, traveling through the scenic Ardennes forests along the way. Continue to Luxembourg City, capital of the Grand Duchy. Here, your guide will take you to the Kirchberg quarter, site of many of the buildings of the European Union, such as the European Court of Justice, and the European Commission. Wander the streets of the old town, and go to the impressive Notre-Dame Cathedral, a beautiful example of late Gothic architecture with Renaissance adornments. There will be time to marvel at the Palace of the Grand Duke, and see the city’s fortifications during some free time in the city center. After some free time in the city, visit the picturesque village of Dinant, with its fifteenth century collegial, its citadel and its tiny saxophone museum (optional). Choose between a private and a shared option.

Brussels: Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe

5. Brussels: Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe

Explore Mini-Europe in Brussels with an entrance ticket to discover Europe's most popular attractions in miniature. See all the wonders of Europe in miniature along with bonsai trees, flowery groves, and dwarf trees that embellish the 350 monuments. Admire a 4-meter-high Big Ben, the 13-meter-tall Eiffel tower, and more with an entrance ticket. Set off the eruption of the Vesuvius and admire the take-off of the Ariane rocket. Destroy a section of the Berlin wall, launch an attack of legionnaires or scare the Vikings. Operate the many interactive live-action animations, from the Bells of Stockholm to the Windmills at Kinderdijk. Go on a walk to discover Europe and its historical, architectural, and cultural wealth. From the origins of democracy to the enterprising spirit, from Greek, Roman, or Viking heritage to the political transformations of the 21st century, find commentary at every stage of the journey in the catalog. Admire the many statues of the Grand-Place of Brussels painted with real gold leaves. Marvel at the 4-meter-tall Big Ben. At 13 meters, see the Eiffel Tower which is taller than a 3-story building. Located at the end of the park, enter the ‘Spirit of Europe’ a large indoor space where live-action models, games, and quizzes that give you the chance to test, enrich or perfect your knowledge of the 27 member states of the European Union and the United Kingdom. Enjoy spending time with your friends and family at the best miniature park in Europe. 

Choco-Story Brussels: Chocolate Museum Entrance with Tasting

6. Choco-Story Brussels: Chocolate Museum Entrance with Tasting

Journey through the story of chocolate at Choco-Story Brussels, and learn the origins of the precious commodity and its transformation to the finished product. Delve deep in the history of the Aztecs, and discover how cocoa arrived in Europe.  Admire the exhibits of the museum, including illustrations, informative panels and videos that explain the culture of cocoa and how it is turned into chocolate. Watch a demonstration by a master chocolatier on how to make artisanal pralines.  Enjoy several tastings throughout your visit, and benefit from the chance to purchase some chocolates in the gift shop.

From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour

7. From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour

Meet your guide in the center of Brussels and relax on the 100-kilometer journey to Bruges. Upon arrival, discover the charms of “the Venice of the North” and see why the entire historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Marvel at highlights such as the Lake of Love (Minnewater Lake) and the 13th-century Begijnhof complex, founded in 1245 to house lay religious women. Go to Walplein Square, where the shady trees and cafes provide a perfect place to relax. Visit Stoofstraat on the site of the city's former Red Light District, and see medieval monuments such as the 11th-century Old St. John’s Hospital. Look at the world's second tallest brickwork tower at the Church of Our Lady, and see other historic monuments such as Gruuthuse Palace, the Dijver Canal and the tiny piazza of Tanners Square (Huidenvettersplein). Go to one of the city's most photographed spots at Rozenhoedkaai, and admire the Belfry on Castle Square. Admire the facades of the Gothic-style Town Hall and the 12th-century Basilica of the Holy Blood. Visit Market Square (Grote Markt) to see the Bell Tower (Belfort) and Sint-Salvator’s Cathedral. Then enjoy 1-hour's free time for lunch (at your own expense) and the chance to sample some of the city's delicious chocolates.  Next, drive to Ghent, where the inhabitants have been popularly known as "noose-bearers“ since the days of Charles V. Take a guided tour of the city's historic buildings, such as the Castle of Gerald the Devil and Saint Bavo Cathedral, where you can look at the painting “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers. Admire the Belfort (Bell Tower) and peculiar Gothic and Renaissance-style Town Hall. See one of the city's oldest monuments at St. Nicholas’ Church opposite the unusual facade of the Masons’ Guild House. Journey along the embankments of the medieval port of Graslei, and discover other highlights such as the majestic Castle of the Counts of Flanders, the charming Patershol neighborhood, the Great Butchers’ Hall, the Old Fish Market, and Friday Market Square.

Brussels: Magritte Museum Entry Ticket

8. Brussels: Magritte Museum Entry Ticket

Visit the world's largest collection of works by René Magritte. Enjoy access to more than 230 works and archives of the famous surrealist artist. View oil paintings, sketches, and sculptures, as well as posters, photographs and films made by Magritte himself. After viewing the surrealist masterpieces, take a relaxing break at the on site café and restaurant. Stop by the shop for an impressive selection of posters, postcards, gifts and books.

Brussels: Guided Walking Tour

9. Brussels: Guided Walking Tour

Get an overview of the fascinating city of Brussels, with a tour through the medieval and Baroque city, the industrial city, the bourgeois city, and on to modern Brussels. This tour ensures you get to see all the parts of this multi-faceted city. Learn about the city’s museums, where the best bars and local beers are, and where to buy the best chocolate at a reasonable price. Your guide will also answer any practical questions you might have about restaurants, attractions, nightlife, or even just getting around on public transport. During your walking tour of the city, the tour will be split into two different areas: the Upper City and Lower City. The tour is structured this way to help you better understand the origins and historic development of Brussels.  Highlights on your tour of the Lower City include the Grand Palace, the Everard t'Serclaes monument on Charles Buls street, the Manneken Pis and Grands Carmes street, Marché au Charbon street, the Covering of the Senne, Riches Claires street, and Grande Île street, Saint-Géry Island and more.  Whilst perusing through the Upper city, you'll notice a very different style. During this portion of the tour, you will see landmarks such as the Grand Place, the power of merchants, the Galeries Royales St Hubert, and the Mort Subite. You'll also see the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula (visit inside: stained glass windows, the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, the pulpit), the Royal Park, the Royal Palace, the Royal Square, and The Palace of Coudenberg among many others.

Brussels: 2.5-Hour Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop

10. Brussels: 2.5-Hour Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop

Learn to make your own chocolates with the help of a professional chocolate maker. Create mendiant chocolates, personalized chocolate bars, and lollies to take home with you. Afterward, you can visit the Choco-Story Brussels museum. Explore with your audio guide and discover the history of cocoa and chocolate in an interactive and fun way. Enjoy chocolate tastings and watch a demonstration of Belgian's famous artisanal pralines.

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Frequently asked questions about Brussels

What top attractions are a must-see in Brussels?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Brussels?

The best day trips and excursions from Brussels are:

Bruges

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Insider tips: Planning a trip to Brussels

Jurga Rubinovaite is an avid traveler, photographer, and chief adventure planner behind the popular family travel blog Full Suitcase. On her blog, you can find more information and all the details for planning a trip to Brussels.

What should I do on my first trip to Brussels?

When visiting Brussels for the first time, don't miss the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often, you can also see a beautiful music & lights show here in the evening. Other must-sees include the iconic symbol of Brussels, Manneken Pis, and the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert.

What are some hidden gems to see in Brussels?

Brussels is such a big city that you are bound to find many cool places and hidden gems everywhere you go. One of the nicest local areas to visit is the Sablon neighborhood. Located just a short walk from the main landmarks in the city center, Sablon is a charming area with antique shops, art galleries, quirky cafes, and some of the best chocolate shops in town. On the weekends, check out the Sablon Antiques Market, which is the place to be for quality antiques and some truly unique finds.

How much time should I spend in Brussels?

You can easily see the main highlights of Brussels in a day. However, if you want to explore the city deeper, check out several different areas (including the EU headquarters), visit one or two museums, or do some shopping, you’ll need at least 2-3 days.

What food is Brussels known for?

Brussels is a great place to try all kinds of Belgian food, including Belgian chocolates, Brussels waffles, and hundreds of types of different Belgian beers. But if you try just one traditional dish in Brussels, make it moules-frites (mussels and fries), which is said to have originated in Belgium. There are many restaurants serving moules-frites in Brussels, but for the most authentic experience, head to Chez Léon on Rue des Bouchers.

What is the best way to get around Brussels?

The best way to explore the city center of Brussels is on foot. However, there are also many landmarks and points of interest scattered all over the city, with big distances between them. The best way to see all the main areas and landmarks of Brussels in a short time is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus. The fastest way to cover bigger distances in Brussels is by metro.

What are the best months to visit Brussels?

Brussels is a year-round destination with plenty to see and do in all seasons. The months between May and September are the best weather-wise and there is always so much happening in the city in the summer.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

Brussels is a real paradise for shoppers, with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. Avenue Louise is the place to be for the most expensive luxury brands, whereas Rue Dansart is best known for boutique shops and local designers. Rue Neuve is the main and the busiest shopping street of Brussels, where you’ll find the more affordable brands such as H&M, Benetton, etc. Sablon and the Marolles are the best areas for vintage and antiques, and also for the lesser-known designer boutiques.

What are the best annual events in Brussels?

Probably one of the most popular events is the annual Brussels Christmas Market, traditionally held from the second half of November until the first weekend of January. With wonderful decorations and lighting, and hundreds of market stalls spread out through a big part of the city center, Brussels Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe. In addition, the city also offers an amazing (free) music and light show at the Grand Place, which makes a winter city trip to Brussels even more magical. Another world-famous celebration is the bi-annual Brussels Flower Carpet, which takes place in mid-August on even years.

Other Sightseeing Options in Brussels

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What people are saying about Brussels

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 15,409 reviews

The tour was wonderful!! Despite the cold & rainy weather, we enjoyed our evening immensely. The history of Brussels came with stories to make it even more interesting. The food choices were delicious & the company couldn’t have been better. A must do!!

Elisabetta was amazing and funny and we loved making our chocolate and bought some lovely stuff in the gift shop after too, we hope you got your pancakes with your home made chocolate chips!

Lovely experience with our guide Andrea. We saw a lot and had a nice lunch in Bruges as well. We also got to visit the christmas market!

great for our group of 5 with three kiddos. we all learned something and the kiddos were super happy to have take home treats.

Informative and fun! And got to taste proper chocolate