The Best 15 Things to do in Brussels + Bonus Ideas
These are the best 15 things to do in Brussels! There is so much to see and do in the city; sometimes, you might not know where to start your plans.
We are here to help! We figured there are certain things people are looking to do, so we are breaking this post into different categories: sightseeing things to do in Brussels, Food things to do in Brussels, and museum things to do in Brussels.
Let me be clear: there are WAY more things to do in Brussels than just these 15 things, but this can help you start your planning! And if you need help planing a one day itinerary, we also have you covered.
Sightseeing Things to do in Brussels
You can’t visit Brussels without visiting some of the classic sights! What fun would that be?
We love how Brussels has unique sights to knock your socks off.
1.) Be Amazed by the Grand Place
This has to be the most picturesque square in Europe. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is filled with amazing architecture.
The square is filled with different guild houses and beautifully decorated buildings that once served as the headquarters for the city’s powerful trade and craft guilds during the 17th century.
The building has been rebuilt but retains the same intricate facade and detail. Definitely a thing to do!
2. Find the Three Pis Statues
Brussels has not one, but three peeing statues.
Zinneke Pis is the lesser-known of the three and depicts a dog peeing. There is no actual fountain with this one, so you can get up close and personal!
Jeanneke Pis is the “sister” of the most famous peeing statue, which was erected in 1987 and was said to symbolize equality in Brussels.
Manneken Pis is the most famous of them all! This statue dates back to 1451 and is a mascot of Brussels. He also gets costume changes frequently 😅
These statue visits need to be on your bucket list of things to do in Brussels.
3. Visit The Royal Palace of Brussels
This stunning neoclassical building serves as the official palace of the Belgian monarchy (though the king resides elsewhere). Its grand architecture, lavish interiors, and historical significance will draw you.
The palace opens to the public each summer for free, allowing guests to explore its ornate halls, chandeliers, and famous Mirror Room with its shimmering beetle-wing ceiling. Even when closed, the palace is worth a visit for its impressive façade.
You will also get a great view of Parc de Bruxelles, the largest urban park in central Brussels. This is a great place to walk around, see the statues and fountains, and take pictures.
4. Explore the Atomium
Built for the 1958 World Expo, this 102-meter-tall futuristic structure represents an iron atom magnified 165 billion times, symbolizing scientific progress.
You can explore its interconnected spheres, which house exhibitions on science, design, and the history of the Expo. The top sphere features a panoramic observation deck, offering breathtaking views of Brussels.
5. Walk the Comic Strip Trail
This unique outdoor street art tour features over 60 giant murals dedicated to Belgium’s famous comic book characters.
As the birthplace of Tintin, The Smurfs, and Lucky Luke, Brussels celebrates its comic heritage with colorful artworks painted on building walls across the city.
You can walk or bike the trail, discovering beloved characters while exploring different neighborhoods. It’s a great way to experience Brussels’ creative side while sightseeing.
Maps are available at the Brussels Tourist Office, and guided tours offer deeper insights into the city’s comic book culture!
Food Things to do in Brussels
Brussels is filled with amazing food and takes a lot of pride in what it is known for, so you have to try out these food things in Brussels:
1. Waffles
Waffles are a big deal here. And they aren’t just any waffles.
Actually, you will find two main types of waffles in the city: Brussels Waffles and Lieges Waffles.
Brussels waffles are typically less sweet and perfectly square where Lieges waffles are more sweet, less perfectly shaped, and aren’t served with toppings.
You really can’t go wrong with any of the waffle places that you choose, but here are some top contenders: Belgaufre, Maison Dandoy, or Le Funambule.
2. Frites
In Belgium, frites (fries) are a cherished national dish typically enjoyed in a specific way.
They are double-fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The fries are often served in a paper cone, accompanied by a wooden spatula for dipping.
The most traditional condiment is mayonnaise, though other popular sauces include frites sauce, andalouse, or even stoofvlees (a Flemish beef stew) served on top.
3. Belgian Chocolate
One thing you have to do is try some Belgian chocolate. Back in the day, chocolate was only for the wealthy and famous, but now it’s for everyone to enjoy!
There are over 2,000 chocolatiers throughout the country, and there are laws governing how the chocolate must be made, holding it to a high standard.
Neuhaus is a commercial brand that has expanded outside of Belgium. You can find it in many Belgian stores.
4. Mussels
Have some mussels in Brussels! Specifically, moules-frites or mussels and fries, are considered a national dish of Belgium.
This dish became popular in the past when people cooked mussels in the winter when fish supplies were low and it was a cheaper option.
Typically coated in a white wine sauce and served with a side of fries, it is a dish you must try in Brussels.
5. Belgian Beer
Belgium is famous for beer, and where better to try it than the capital?
Belgium has a rich beer brewing history with many different varieties and is always made with high-quality ingredients.
You can learn even more at the Belgian Beer World in Brussels, an interactive center all about beer!
Delirium Cafe and Cantillon Brewery are two great spots to try some Belgian Beers.
Bonus Food Thing to do in Brussels: Cheese Sandwich
This one might come as a surprise, but Brussels is home to one of the best cheese sandwich shops in the world (in our opinion).
Toton Garby, located next to the Grand Place, is run by a thoughtful person. He takes his time with each customer and makes sure you get the best experience—even if the line is long.
You will have to wait for the sandwich, but it is totally worth it.
Museum Things to do in Brussels
There are over 150 museums in Brussels 🤯 That is a ton!
But we are here to give you our top five recommendations for those to put on your list!
1. Choco-Story
If you have tried Belgian chocolate, you should take some time to learn the history and story of how it became such an important part of Belgian culture.
This museum takes you through history and demonstrates chocolate making at the end.
They have audio recordings in multiple languages that take you through the exhibit so you won’t miss anything!
2. Mini Europe
This might be one of the most unique things to see in Belgium. Mini Europe is a park that has over 350 miniature sculptures of famous landmarks around Europe.
In two hours, you can explore all of Europe in one place. Crazy!
3. Royal Museums of Fine Arts
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts has three different areas you can visit: Old Masters, Magritte Museum, and Wiertz Museum.
You can purchase combination tickets depending on what you want to see.
The Old Masters Museum covers the 15th to 18th centuries. It holds artwork valued by the Flemish Primitives and many artists from the fertile periods of the Flemish Renaissance and Baroque.
The Magritte Museum has a collection of works by Belgian Surrealist artist René Magritte (1898-1967), one of the world’s most famous artists.
4. Museum of Art and History
If you want to see and learn a lot, then this museum is for you!
It combines art and history into multiple exhibits that are engaging and fun.
From mummies to medieval tapestries, there is a lot to explore!
5. Parlamentarium
Have you ever wondered how the European Parliament works or its history? Well, what better place to learn than the de facto capital of the European Union?
Entrance to the Parlamentarium is free and will teach you about the path towards European cooperation, how the European Parliament works, and what its Members are doing to meet the challenges of today.
Bonus Tours and Guided Activities Things to do in Brussels
Here are a few extra ideas to put on your radar for your visit!
Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels
Looking for something more hands-on? Try your hand at making Belgian chocolate, and then get a tasting at the end! This is a fun and memorable way to remember this delicious chocolate!
Dive Deep with A Food Tour
If you are a foodie, you will love this experience! Your guide will show you where to get the best without needing to do the work. And you’ll learn more about the history and background of food!
Pub Crawl
Belgium is known for its beers and pubs. If you love the nightlife but aren’t sure where to go, try this tour!
Final Thoughts
Brussels is an a amazing city with so much to see and do! We hope these ideas help you to plan a wonderful, unforgettable trip to Brussels! And best of all, it’s easy to see the Netherlands as well!
There are so many things to do in Brussels ❤️
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