Brussels – 15 things not to miss

When we think of Brussels, we think of shop windows full of chocolate, beer, French fries, stunning architecture and fascinating history. Whether you visit Belgium in December to enjoy the Christmas fair or in the warmer seasons, Belgium is a country not to be missed.

Belgium is the perfect country for a city break or a long weekend. You can visit the most beautiful attractions in just 3 days.

15 things visit and try in Brussels

1. Visit the Grand Place

Built over 700 years ago, Grand Place is a square located in the centre of the city. It is also home to the Brussels City Hall with its Gothic architecture, along with many historic and elegant buildings.  

2. St Michael Cathedral

Located in the city centre St Michael’s Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Brabantine Gothic architecture.
Visiting hours: Monday – Friday: 08:00-18:00

Did you know that there are 3 statues doing their “business” on the streets of Brussels?

The 3 bronze statues are scattered around various locations in the city centre.

3. Manneken Pis – a naughty little boy who is decorated/dressed in festive costumes for every holiday. I’m sure you’ve seen him in various pictures around Belgium, and you’ll find him on many magnets too.
4. Jeanneke-Pis – the statue of a little girl, known as the sister of Manneken Pis.
5. Zinneke Pis (Het Zinneke) – and we complete the trio with a dog :))

6. Enjoy the delicious and traditional Belgian Mussels at Chez Léon – you won’t regret it

7. Mont des Arts

A small square near the city centre, Mont des Arts sits on a hill (perfect for admiring the city) and is surrounded by museums and repairable architecture. 

8. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is a shopping centre covered by a glass ceiling

9. Triumphal Arch &
10. Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Triumphal Arch in Brussels lies slightly outside the historic centre, within the Parc Cinquantenaire. It’s a truly gorgeous place that needs to be on your list of places to visit in Brussels.

11. You really must try a Mitraillette – a traditional Belgian sandwich commonly served in potato shops and cafés.  Our recommendation is this Cartofisarie: Fritland

12. Atomium

The only place in the world where you can visit a giant atom. This one is 100 meters long and should no longer exist. The Atom was built for the ’58 Exhibition and is today the international symbol of Brussels and Belgium.
Visiting hours Atomium: Monday – Friday: 10:00-18:00
Online Tickets HERE

13. A walk through Europe in Miniature

Just a few feet away from the Atomium is Mini Europe, a museum/park where you can admire over 350 miniature monuments and monuments. From the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben to the Colosseum.
Visiting hours of Mini Europe from 9:30 to 18:00
Please note, it is closed annually between January and April.|
Online Tickets HERE

14. Royal Palace in Brussels

15. Admire the Street Art

From comics to Smurfs and various comic murals, you can admire a lot of paintings on the buildings of Brussels. 
We found the following map with the help of which you can create your own street art tour of Brussels: