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The capital of Belgium, Brussels is a very charming city. If you’re looking for things to do or see, it’s easy to fill your diary. But not all activities are created equal.

In this article, I list the 32 best things to do in Brussels. Reading it will allow you to see only the best of the city.

La Grand-Place

The beating heart of Brussels, this historic square is a veritable ode to Gothic and Baroque architecture.

It’s the lungs of the city. Admire ancient houses, guilds, the splendid Hôtel de Ville and Maison du Roi…

The cobblestone floor adds to the historic atmosphere.

If you’re lucky enough to be there in August, don’t miss the famous carpet of flowers that transforms the square into a sea of dazzling colors.

Exact address: Grand-Place, 1000 Brussels

Book a guided walking tour of the city.

 

The Magritte Museum

magritte museum
Maykova Galina – Shutterstock.com

Immerse yourself in the mystical, surreal world of one of Belgium’s (and the world’s) greatest artists, René Magritte.

The museum owns over 200 of his works (paintings, sculptures and drawings).

If you’re an art enthusiast, the visit can last for hours. Otherwise, you’ll enjoy stopping in front of the works that catch your eye.

Exact address: Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Brussels

Buy your tickets with free cancellation on GetYourGuide.

 

Sacré-Coeur Basilica

basilica sacre coeur brussels

Majestic and imposing, this Art Deco basilica is an often-visited place of worship. The vaults that make up the building are imposing.

With a ticket, you can reach the Basilica’s dome. From here, you have a view over much of the city of Brussels.

Exact address: Parvis de la Basilique 1, 1083 Ganshoren, Brussels

 

The Atomium

Originally designed for the 1958 Universal Exhibition, the Atomium has become one of Belgium’s symbols. This steel structure, representing an enlarged atom, combines science, art and architecture.

The spheres are linked by escalators. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the outside world.

Exact address: Place de l’Atomium 1, 1020 Brussels

Buy your tickets on GetYourGuide.

 

The mini-Europe park

park mini europe
Wirestock Creators – Shutterstock.com

An adventure through Europe without leaving Brussels! The mini-Europe park houses miniature reproductions of the most emblematic monuments on the European continent.

Each model is accompanied by detailed descriptions.

The tour appeals to a wide range of audiences. Children are enthralled, walkers are delighted, while history and architecture buffs are spoiled for choice.

Exact address: Bruparck, 1020 Brussels

Buy your tickets on GetYourGuide.

 

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgian Comic Strip Center
Michael Mulkens – Shutterstock.com

This museum is a vibrant tribute to the art of Belgian comics.

In addition to exhibitions devoted to icons such as Tintin and the Smurfs, the building itself is a magnificent example of Art Nouveau, designed by the famous architect Victor Horta.

With its unique environment, the Brussels Comic Strip Museum makes a radical change to a day that consists solely of historical visits.

Exact address: Rue des Sables 20, 1000 Brussels

 

The Queen’s Gallery

Queen's Gallery
Alex Kourotchkin – Shutterstock.com

Inaugurated in the 19th century, these shopping arcades are an example of architectural elegance.

With their high-end boutiques, historic cafés and impressive glass roofs, they are one of Europe’s finest shopping arcades.

It’s not certain that your finances will allow you to store in the Queen’s Gallery, but the stroll is still a good time.

However, I expect a lot more people than my photo suggests!

Exact address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Brussels

 

The Royal Library of Belgium: KBR

Royal Library of Belgium
Jean-Marc Pierard – Shutterstock.com

As the guardian of Belgium’s written heritage, this library is a veritable goldmine for researchers and history buffs.

Its silent reading rooms and impressive collections are a treat for intellectuals.

If you wish to visit as a tourist, please respect those who have come to study or work. Silence is required.

Exact address: Boulevard de l’Empereur 4, 1000 Brussels

Book your tickets on Tiqets.

 

Place du Jeu de Balle

Every morning, this place comes alive with one of Brussels’s most famous flea markets. Thrift hunters flock here to discover hidden treasures, from antiques to collectibles. If you like this atmosphere, this is the place for you.

Otherwise, in the afternoon, it becomes quieter and you can more leisurely discover one of Brussels’s historic squares.

Exact address: Place du Jeu de Balle, 1000 Brussels

 

The House of Belgian Master Chocolatiers

Belgium is perhaps the country that produces the best chocolates. Take advantage of your presence in the Belgian capital to satisfy your sweet tooth.

In La Maison des Maîtres Chocolatiers belges, you can visit a section that reveals some of the secrets of the country’s finest chocolatiers, and sample handmade pralines and truffles.

But you can also use the store to buy chocolates for all your loved ones.

The Maison also offers workshops for amateurs wishing to perfect their chocolate-making skills.

Exact address: Grand-Place 4, 1000 Brussels

 

The Royal Palace of Brussels

Royal Palace of Brussels

Seat of the Belgian monarchy, this palace impresses with its grandeur and luxury. Although the royal family no longer resides here, the palace remains a living witness to the country’s history.

During the summer, its doors open to the public. Walk through carefully decorated rooms and admire its works of art, before heading out into its gardens.

Exact address: Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Brussels

 

Autoworld

Autoworld
ESTELLE R – Shutterstock.com

A true paradise for car enthusiasts, Autoworld houses a collection of over 400 vehicles.

The collection is vast. You’ll find cars from the early 20th century as well as modern racing cars.

The advantage of these premises is their large surface area. The cars are well displayed and you have the opportunity to take beautiful photos of your favorite vehicles.

Exact address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 11, 1000 Brussels

Read my article on Autoworld.

Buy your tickets on GetYourGuide.

 

The Musical Instruments Museum

Musical Instruments Museum
jorisvo – Shutterstock.com

Housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building, this museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of musical instruments. Each floor represents a different era and continent.

Visitors can also listen to the sounds of each instrument via audio guides. For novices and seasoned musicians alike, the visit is educational.

Exact address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Brussels

Buy your tickets on Tiqets.

 

BELvue Museum

BELvue Museum
Werner Lerooy – Shutterstock.com

Discover Belgium from every angle! This museum offers a chronological exploration of Belgian history, from its origins to the present day.

Through historical objects, photographs and interactive installations, visitors gain a better understanding of the major events and personalities that have shaped the country.

If you want to know more about Belgium and Brussels, this museum is a must see.

Exact address: Place des Palais 7, 1000 Brussels

Book your tickets.

 

Abbaye de la Cambre

Built in the 13th century, this abbey is a haven of peace in the heart of the city. Its Gothic architecture, peaceful gardens and ponds provide the perfect setting for relaxation.

Inside, stained glass windows and frescoes tell the story of the nuns who once lived here.

Exact address: Avenue Émile Duray, 1050 Ixelles

 

Les Galeries Saint-Hubert

Inaugurated in 1847, these galleries are among the oldest in Europe. They form an elegant maze of stores, theaters and cafés.

Whether for a shopping spree, a gourmet break or simply to admire the architecture, Galeries Saint-Hubert is a must-see in Brussels.

Exact address: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000 Brussels

 

Notre-Dame du Sablon Church

Notre-Dame du Sablon Church

This Gothic gem, built in the 15th century, boasts luminous stained glass windows and refined architectural details.

Inside, visitors will discover its altars, sculptures and paintings.

The church also plays a central role in Brussels’s traditional religious processions.

Exact address: Rue de la Régence, 1000 Brussels

 

The House of European History

Brussels is home to the European Parliament, so it’s only logical that the Belgian capital should have a museum dedicated to the history of Europe.

With dynamic, interactive exhibits, the museum traces the major events, ideas and movements that have shaped the continent.

Exact address: Rue Belliard 135, 1000 Brussels

 

The Museum of Cinema and Photography

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of cinema and photography at this museum.

Explore the evolution of filmmaking techniques.

The museum also exhibits a rich collection of films, cameras and photographs.

It’s a great way to discover the world of cinema in a different way.

Exact address: Rue Baron Horta 9, 1000 Brussels

 

The Town Hall Tower

Town Hall Tower
Kadagan – Shutterstock.com

Towering majestically over the Grand-Place, this Gothic tower can be seen from afar.

Its architecture is a masterpiece, with detailed carvings and a clock that almost rivals Big Ben.

A climb to the summit is highly recommended for a unique view.

Exact address: Grand-Place 1, 1000 Brussels

 

Brussels Park

A veritable green lung in the heart of the capital, this park is the ideal place for a stroll, a picnic or simply to relax.

With its tree-lined avenues, statues and fountains, this park is a popular destination for residents and tourists alike.

You’re not going to make a detour just to see this park. But you can plan to spend some time here between visits to relax a little.

Exact address: Place des Palais, 1000 Brussels

 

The Wiertz Museum

Discover the unique world of Antoine Wiertz, a 19th-century Belgian artist. His dark, mysterious themes are fascinating.

The museum, located in his former studio, showcases some of his works. If you’re an art lover, you’ll love looking at the details of his sketches, while other visitors focus on the gigantic canvases.

Exact address: Rue Vautier 62, 1050 Ixelles

 

The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History

Royal Museum of the Army and Military History
hans engbers – Shutterstock.com

This museum is a journey through military history. It covers all eras, from antiquity to the present day. You’ll be surprised to discover that you know very little about the Belgian army and its conflicts.

The collection is impressive. You can see weapons, uniforms and military vehicles.

A few items may be missing making the museum complete. Nevertheless, if you like military objects, you’ll have a great time.

Exact address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 3, 1000 Brussels

 

The Toy Museum

Travel through the games and toys of yesteryear: dolls, model trains, board games…

They show that children have been playing with similar toys for centuries. However, between a doll from 1800 and today, the attention to detail is very different.

Exact address: Rue de l’Association 24, 1000 Brussels

 

Train World railway museum

Train World railway museum
Werner Lerooy – Shutterstock.com

This museum tells the story of the Belgian railroads. From the first steam locomotive to high-speed trains, the exhibition traces technological advances and the evolution of train travel.

Most European capitals have museums dedicated to trains. Among enthusiasts, Train World is considered one of the finest in Europe.

Exact address: Place Princesse Elisabeth 5, 1030 Schaerbeek

Book your tickets on Tiqets.

 

Banksy Museum

Explore the provocative and mysterious world of street artist Banksy. The reproductions of Banksy’s street art are perfectly done. All in a building that resembles Banksy’s art.

If you want an art museum with a difference, this is a good choice for a visit to Brussels. Google reviews of this museum are excellent.

Exact address: Rue du Marché aux Porcs 25, 1000 Brussels

Book your tickets on Tiqets.

 

The AfricaMuseum

Located just outside Brussels, this museum is dedicated to Central Africa. It has recently been renovated and takes a modern, critical view of colonization.

The exhibits cover the culture, history and nature of this fascinating region. Among the exhibits are ancient African artifacts.

Exact address: Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren

Book your tickets online.

 

Lego Discovery Centre

It’s the ideal place for families and LEGO® fans. Visitors can build, play and discover the incredible world of LEGO.

It features several themed areas, attractions and workshops.

Exact address: Bruparck, 1020 Brussels

Buy your tickets on Tiqets.

 

Halle’s Gate

hal gate brussels

The last vestige of Brussels’s medieval fortifications, this historic tower is in a remarkable state of preservation. Just the sight of it makes you want to visit.

The interior houses a museum detailing the history of the fortification. But I prefer its facade or summit. At the top, once you’ve climbed enough steps to be out of breath, you can enjoy a beautiful view.

Exact address: Boulevard du Midi 150, 1000 Brussels

Reserve your seats with free cancellation.

 

The botanical garden of Meise

botanical garden of Meise
Werner Lerooy – Shutterstock.com

This botanical garden is one of the largest in the world. It boasts many exotic and indigenous plants.

Historic greenhouses, tranquil ponds and winding paths make this a relaxing place where you quickly lose track of time.

In summer, many tourists like to go there to enjoy the shade and coolness of the plants.

Exact address: Nieuwelaan 38, 1860 Meise

Discover and book the activity.

 

The Design Museum Brussels

This museum is dedicated to design and exhibits objects dating from the 20th century to the present day.

It presents an eclectic collection of everyday objects and aims to demonstrate the importance of design in our everyday lives.

The reviews I’ve read are mixed. But, if you like the design, you’ll enjoy the visit.

Exact address: Place de Belgique 1, 1020 Brussels

Book your tickets easily online.

 

The Horta Museum

Victor Horta (1861 – 1947) was one of the leading exponents of Art Nouveau in Belgium.

Located in his original home and studio, this museum showcases the architecture and furnishings of this flourishing period.

The refined details and avant-garde design are a source of inspiration.

Exact address: Rue Américaine 25, 1060 Saint-Gilles

 

DenisDenis
As a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!