· BE

Brussels

Brussels, Brussels-Capital Region, Belgium

Brussels: Where History Meets Indulgence Brussels, the heart of Europe and capital of Belgium, is a city of captivating contrasts. Here, grand medieval architecture shares cobblestone streets with trendy art nouveau fac…

#Brussels#European capital#Multicultural city#Historic architecture#Cultural hub

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Brussels.

Top Hotels in Brussels

Top Flights to Brussels

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Brussels.

Tours

Explore the Grande Place

Visit the central square of Brussels, known for its opulent guildhalls and vibrant flower carpet during summer.

Atomium Visit

Explore this iconic building that symbolises peace and features various expositions, especially on Belgian history.

Royal Palace Tour

Visit the official palace where the King of Belgium carries out official engagements.

Art Nouveau Walk

Explore the history of Art Nouveau architecture while strolling through Brussels.

Comic Strip Walk

Walk around Brussels and discover the street murals celebrating Belgium's rich comic history.

Shopping

Avenue Louise Shopping Spree

Visit trendy boutiques, luxury shops, and designer stores along one of Brussels' most renowned shopping avenues.

Marolles Flea Market

Hunt for treasures at the famous flea market in the Marolles district, open daily.

Outdoor

Chocolate Tasting Tour

Join a walking tour to sample some of the finest chocolates from top chocolatiers in Brussels.

Brussels Park Picnic

Relax in Brussels' largest urban public park with numerous sculptures and scenic paths.

Canal Tour Brussels

Discover Brussels from a different perspective with a boat tour along the city's canal routes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Brussels.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

1.2 million

Average weather

Brussels

Jan

6°1°

Feb

7°1°

Mar

10°3°

Apr

13°5°

May

17°9°

Jun

20°12°

Jul

23°14°

Aug

23°14°

Sep

19°11°

Oct

14°8°

Nov

9°4°

Dec

6°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Brussels.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Brussels, the capital city of Belgium:

Rich history and culture: Brussels is known for its historical architecture, including the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city also boasts numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions, such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium and the Magritte Museum.
Culinary delights: Brussels is famous for its culinary scene, particularly its delicious Belgian waffles, chocolates, and beers. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of local and international cuisines at the city's many restaurants, cafes, and food markets.
European Union headquarters: Brussels is often referred to as the "capital of Europe" as it is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. Visitors can explore the EU institutions, such as the European Parliament and the European Commission, and learn about European politics and governance.
Vibrant atmosphere: Brussels is a lively city with a vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The city also offers plenty of green spaces, such as the Cinquantenaire Park and the Brussels Park, for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Central location: Brussels is well-connected by public transportation and is a convenient hub for exploring other cities in Belgium, as well as nearby countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The city's central location makes it an ideal base for day trips and weekend getaways.

Overall, Brussels offers a mix of history, culture, cuisine, and modernity that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Brussels could include:

Weather: Brussels experiences a temperate climate with frequent rain and cloudy weather, which may not be ideal for some travelers.
Tourist crowds: Brussels is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons, which can lead to crowded attractions and longer waiting times.
Language barrier: While many people in Brussels speak English, the primary languages are French and Dutch, so travelers may encounter language barriers, particularly in more local areas.
Cost of living: Brussels is known to be relatively expensive compared to other European cities, with higher prices for accommodation, food, and transportation.
Safety concerns: Like any major city, Brussels has areas with higher crime rates, so travelers should be cautious and take necessary safety precautions.

These cons may vary depending on the individual traveler's preferences and experiences.

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium and the Brussels-Capital Region, has a rich history dating back to the founding of the city around the 10th century. Here is a detailed history of Brussels:

Early History: Brussels originated as a small settlement on an island in the Senne River valley. The first mention of Brussels dates back to the 10th century when it was just a fortress town. Over the centuries, it grew in importance due to its strategic location and became a center of trade and commerce.
Dukes of Brabant: Brussels became the capital of the Duchy of Brabant in the 15th century. The Dukes of Brabant played a significant role in shaping the city's architecture and culture. Many important buildings, such as the Town Hall and the Grand Place, were constructed during this period.
Spanish Rule: In the 16th century, Brussels came under Spanish rule as part of the Spanish Netherlands. During this time, the city experienced a period of prosperity and became a center of art and culture. Artists like Pieter Bruegel the Elder lived and worked in Brussels during this period.
Industrial Revolution: In the 19th century, Brussels underwent significant industrialization and urbanization. The city expanded rapidly, and many new neighborhoods were built to accommodate the growing population. The Industrial Revolution transformed Brussels into a modern city with a booming economy.
World Wars: Brussels played a crucial role during both World War I and World War II. The city was occupied by German forces during both wars, leading to significant destruction and loss of life. After World War II, Brussels emerged as a key political center, hosting institutions such as the European Union and NATO.
Modern Brussels: In the post-war period, Brussels continued to grow and develop as a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population. The European institutions based in Brussels have had a profound impact on the city's economy and culture. Today, Brussels is known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine.

Significant landmarks in Brussels include:

Grand Place: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the central square of Brussels, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Atomium: An iconic building constructed for the 1958 World Expo, symbolizing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
Manneken Pis: A famous bronze statue of a urinating boy, representing the rebellious spirit of the city.
Royal Palace of Brussels: The official residence of the Belgian royal family, located in the heart of the city.
Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: A beautiful Gothic cathedral that serves as an important religious and cultural landmark in Brussels.

This history provides a glimpse into the diverse and storied past of Brussels, a city that has played a significant role in the history of Belgium and Europe.