Often referred to as the “Capital of Europe” due to its role as the headquarters of the European Union, Brussels is also the capital of Belgium. The city has a rich history, dating back to its founding in the 10th century as a fortress town under the rule of Charles of Lower Lorraine. Over time, Brussels evolved into a center of commerce and politics.
During my two-week stay in Brussels, I discovered many attractions, and here are my top 5 favorite activities to enjoy while visiting the city. However, based on my experience, a stay of 2-4 days is ideal to fully appreciate what Brussels has to offer without feeling rushed.
- Check Out the European Parliament
- Visit Manneken Pis
- Explore Cinquantenaire Park
- Have a Picnic and Walk in Leopold Park
- Discover the Grand-Place & Rue du Marché aux Herbes
- Try Authentic Belgian Waffles
1
Check Out the European Parliament
Brussels is often referred to as the “Capital of Europe” because it hosts the European Union’s main institutions, including the European Parliament. The city became the de facto capital of the EU due to its strategic location at the heart of the continent and its historical role as a center for international diplomacy.
The European Parliament building, though unassuming in appearance, stands as a significant symbol of European unity. The Parliament is responsible for debating and passing European laws, approving the EU budget, and overseeing the work of other EU institutions. My visit to this institution added a meaningful dimension to my time in Belgium, highlighting the city’s importance on the global stage.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Entrance Fee: Free.
Tips: Make sure to bring a photo ID as it’s required for entry. You can also visit the Parlamentarium, the European Parliament’s visitor center, for interactive exhibitions.
2
Visit Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks—a small statue of a boy urinating. The origins of the statue date back to a 17th-century legend in which a young boy urinated on a burning fuse, saving Brussels from destruction.
It’s a quirky and humorous sight that draws crowds, and I can understand the fascination surrounding it. I visited in the winter, so it wasn’t too crowded, but it’s wise to visit early in the morning or late at night during peak seasons to avoid large crowds.
Location: Corner of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne
Tips: Look out for the various costumes the statue wears during special events and holidays. Nearby, you can also find the less famous but equally charming Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke Pis statues.
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3
Explore Cinquantenaire Park
Cinquantenaire Park is a vast public space spanning 30 hectares and is one of Brussels’ historic landmarks. It was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence in 1880, with the Cinquantenaire Arch serving as its monumental centerpiece.
If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, this park is the perfect place for a peaceful walk. It’s also ideal for picnics or a leisurely stroll with your dog.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
Tips: Don’t miss the nearby museums: the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History and the AutoWorld Museum, both located within the park.
4
Have a Picnic and Walk in Leopold Park
Leopold Park is smaller than Cinquantenaire but equally charming. It features a small lake at its center, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic. Its size makes it more intimate, offering a quieter alternative to the larger parks in Brussels.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
5
Discover the Grand-Place & Rue du Marché aux Herbes
The Grand-Place is a must-visit spot in Brussels, offering a captivating experience both day and night. During the day, the lively streets surrounding the square are filled with shops, market stands, and restaurants, with Rue du Marché aux Herbes being particularly vibrant. By night, the Grand-Place becomes truly breathtaking when illuminated, highlighting its architecture.
The square is also home to the city’s iconic Town Hall, an impressive Gothic structure that dominates the area. This vibrant location is perfect for exploring, shopping, and dining, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary!
Opening Hours: The square is open 24 hours, but shops typically open from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
6
Try Authentic Belgian Waffles
Belgium is world-renowned for its delicious waffles, and Brussels is an excellent place to embark on a culinary journey to find the best spots for this traditional treat. With countless cafés and restaurants offering waffles, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go. Since I couldn’t try them all, here’s a top 3 that consistently receives high ratings on Google:
- Maison Dandoy (4/5 on Google)
An institution in Brussels, Maison Dandoy is famous for its exquisite Liège waffles. This spot blends tradition with quality, serving waffles that are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Their famous speculoos (spiced cookie) crumbs are a must-try topping.
Location: Galerie du Roi 2, 1000 Brussels
Tips: Visit the location in the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert for a more atmospheric experience. Be prepared for a line, especially on weekends, but it’s worth the wait.
- Gaston (4.5/5 on Google)
Renowned not only for its excellent ice cream but also for its Brussels waffles, Gaston uses high-quality ingredients. Their waffles pair perfectly with their selection of nut-based ice creams, with pistachio being a must-try.
Location: Quai aux Briques 86, 1000 Brussels
- Brussels’ Waffle Vans
These iconic yellow waffle vans are scattered around the city, offering some of the best and most affordable (2.5 euros) Liège waffles in Brussels. They provide a quick and accessible way to indulge in this Belgian delicacy, perfect for those on the go.
Tips: Look for these vans near popular tourist spots like the Grand-Place or the Atomium.
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