What to do in Bruxelles?
At the crossroads of Latin and Germanic cultures, Brussels surprises with the Baroque splendour of its Grand-Place, its comic-strip museums and generous cuisine. Between the futuristic Atomium and the lanes of the Îlot Sacré, discover the tours and experiences to book in a European capital too often overlooked.
Bruxelles highlights
The places and experiences not to miss under any circumstances.
Grand-Place
UNESCO-listed, Brussels' Grand-Place dazzles with its gilded Baroque façades, Gothic town hall and former guild houses. By day or lit up at night, it's one of the finest urban ensembles in Europe.
Atomium
A giant sculpture shaped like an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, the Atomium is the futuristic symbol of Expo 58. Go up to the top sphere for a panorama over Brussels; book your ticket online to skip the wait.
Manneken Pis
Tiny but world-famous, this 17th-century fountain depicting a child answering nature's call embodies Brussels' self-deprecating humour. It's regularly dressed in different costumes — check the calendar before stopping by.
Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries
Europe's first covered shopping arcades (1847), these glass-vaulted passages house chic boutiques, chocolatiers and a historic theatre. An elegant stroll, especially pleasant on rainy days.
Comic strip museums
Home of Tintin and the Smurfs, Brussels celebrates comic strips at the Belgian Comic Strip Center, housed in a former Art Nouveau department store by Horta. Continue with the comic strip walk, where wall murals brighten the façades of the city centre.
European Quarter & Cinquantenaire Park
Home to the European institutions, this district contrasts with the historic centre through its modern architecture. Cinquantenaire Park and its monumental arch offer a lovely green break, with several museums nearby.
Plan your visit to Bruxelles
Our practical tips for a great stay: when to go, how to get around, where to stay.
When to visit Brussels?
Spring and summer offer the longest, most pleasant days; autumn stays mild. Winter is damp but warmed up by Christmas markets and seasonal comfort food.
Getting around Brussels
The historic centre is easy to explore on foot. Metro, trams and buses (STIB network) help reach outer districts like the European quarter or Saint-Gilles.
Where to stay in Brussels
The historic centre (Îlot Sacré) to be steps from the Grand-Place; Ixelles or Saint-Gilles for a more local vibe and great food spots.
Activities & tickets to book in Bruxelles
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Bruxelles by theme
Book your activities in Bruxelles by theme — guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, cruises, food tours, outdoor activities and day trips. Click a category to explore the best deals available right now.
Guided tours
To grasp the soul of Bruxelles, nothing beats a guided tour. Follow a local guide through the great monuments and hidden lanes, and discover the stories that paper guides leave out. Allow 2 to 3 hours, often in a small group, at a pace suited to your curiosity.
Book →Museums & skip-the-line tickets
Bruxelles is packed with must-see museums and monuments. Book your skip-the-line tickets in Bruxelles and enjoy the finest collections without losing an hour in the queue. Tickets are dated and timed: book the day before in high season, as morning slots go first.
Book →Cruises & boat trips
Seeing Bruxelles from the water means rediscovering it. Hop aboard a cruise or boat ride and admire the finest views of Bruxelles on the water, by day or at sunset. One-hour guided cruises, with or without a meal option: there's something for every budget, often boarding right in the centre.
Book →Food tours & gastronomy
Food is part of the journey. Treat yourself to a food tour in Bruxelles: local markets, regional specialties and tastings to savour Bruxelles like a true local. Allow 3 to 4 hours and come hungry: between street bites and neighbourhood spots, a good food tour is often worth a full meal.
Book →Outdoors & activities
Feel like moving? Bruxelles lends itself to bike rides, hikes and outdoor activities to explore the city and its surroundings from a different angle. Bike rentals, guided e-bike tours or active excursions: a way to cover more ground while enjoying the fresh air.
Book →Day trips
The most beautiful treasures sometimes hide at the gates of Bruxelles. Book a day trip to discover the villages, castles and landscapes nearby. Transport, guide and sometimes lunch are usually included: a hassle-free day to see more without the logistics.
Book →Bruxelles: frequently asked questions
Should I book activities in advance in Brussels?
For the Atomium and guided tours in high season, it's advisable. The Grand-Place and Manneken Pis remain freely accessible at any time.
How many days to visit Brussels?
Two days are enough for the essentials. Add half a day for a trip to Bruges or Ghent, less than an hour away by train.
Which area to stay in Brussels?
The historic centre (Îlot Sacré) to be steps from the Grand-Place, or Ixelles/Saint-Gilles for a more local vibe and great addresses.
When is the best time to visit Brussels?
May to September for long days and outdoor terraces. Winter has its charm thanks to the Christmas markets, despite often damp weather.
Plan Bruxelles day by day
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