Brussels

Brussels Travel Guide

Belgium's capital and home of the EU headquarters, famous for the Grand Place, chocolate, and waffles. The grand Baroque architecture of the Grand Place, the antique streets of Place du Sablon, and the Belgian beer bars of Saint-Gilles each add their own character. Walk through the heart of Europe sampling chocolate, waffles, and frites — and use it as a base for day trips to Bruges and Ghent.

Essential Brussels Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Brussels

★ 4.8

Grand Place

Brussels's central square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that Victor Hugo praised as 'the most beautiful square in the world.' It's framed by the 15th-century Gothic Town Hall, the King's House (Brussels City Museum), and Baroque guild houses. Every two years in August, the Flower Carpet festival covers the entire square in begonias, and the illuminated square at night is especially striking. Square free to visit. 5-minute walk from Metro Lines 1/5 Gare Centrale station.

HoursOpen 24 hours (Town Hall interior tours: Wed and Sun 10:00-17:00).

LocationGrand-Place, Brussels

TipsThe illuminated square at night is the most beautiful. Visiting during the biennial Flower Carpet festival in August is a special experience.

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★ 4

Manneken Pis

Cast in 1619, this 61cm-tall bronze fountain statue of a boy is Brussels's most famous symbol. He owns hundreds of outfits — donated by foreign heads of state and famous designers — that are displayed at the nearby GardeRobe MannekenPis costume museum. His companion statues Jeanneke-Pis (a girl) and Het Zinneke (a dog) are also nearby and fun to track down.

HoursOpen 24 hours.

LocationCity Centre, Brussels

TipsThe statue is much smaller than most people expect, so manage your expectations. Hunt down nearby Jeanneke-Pis (the girl statue) and Het Zinneke (the dog statue) too.

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★ 4.4

Atomium

Built for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, the 102m-tall Atomium represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Nine spheres connected by tubes house exhibition spaces and a restaurant, and the observation deck in the top sphere offers a panorama of Brussels. The LED lighting at night gives it a futuristic look. It pairs well with a visit to nearby Mini-Europe, a park of miniature European landmarks. Admission about EUR 16. 5-minute walk from Metro Line 6 Heysel station.

Hours10:00-18:00 (Dec 31: 10:00-16:00; open year-round).

LocationHeysel, Brussels

TipsCombine your visit with nearby Mini-Europe, a park of miniature European landmarks. The LED night lighting is striking, so an evening visit is also recommended.

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★ 4.5

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium comprises four museums: Old Masters, Modern, Magritte, and Fin-de-Siècle. Together they hold over 20,000 works spanning the 15th century to the present, including Pieter Bruegel's 'Landscape with the Fall of Icarus,' monumental Rubens paintings, and some 200 works by René Magritte. The Magritte Museum in particular houses the world's largest Magritte collection and is a must for surrealism fans. Combined admission about EUR 15; Magritte Museum alone EUR 10. 5-minute walk from Metro 1/5 Trône/Troon station.

HoursTue-Fri 10:00-17:00, Sat-Sun 11:00-18:00 (closed Mon).

LocationRue de la Régence, Brussels

TipsThe Magritte Museum alone takes at least 2 hours. Free admission after 13:00 on the first Wednesday of each month. Combine with a visit to nearby Place du Grand Sablon.

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★ 4.3

Place du Grand Sablon

Place du Grand Sablon is Brussels's most elegant quarter, home to boutiques from premium chocolate brands (Pierre Marcolini, Wittamer), antique shops, and galleries. The Saturday and Sunday antique market is one of Europe's finest, offering silverware, ceramics, and paintings. The 15th-century Notre-Dame du Sablon church stands on one side, and terrace cafes and restaurants fill the square. It's a great place to soak up the local atmosphere.

HoursOpen 24 hours (antique market: Sat 09:00-18:00, Sun 09:00-14:00).

LocationSablon, Brussels

TipsVisit on Saturday or Sunday morning when the antique market is running for the liveliest atmosphere. Be sure to try Pierre Marcolini chocolate. It's a 5-minute walk from the Royal Museums.

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★ 4.4

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Opened in 1847, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is Europe's first glass-roofed shopping arcade, with an impressive Italian Renaissance-style arched glass ceiling. It's divided into the King's, Queen's, and Prince's galleries, housing fine chocolate shops (Neuhaus, Mary), leather craft stores, theaters, and cafes. This is also where Neuhaus invented the first praline in 1857. Rain or shine, the arcade is perfect for a stroll and shopping.

HoursArcade: open 24 hours (shops: typically 10:00-19:00).

LocationCity Centre, Brussels

TipsJust a 2-minute walk from the Grand Place, so easy to combine. Buy pralines at the original Neuhaus shop. Also a perfect rainy-day stroll.

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★ 4.3

Belgian Beer World

Belgian Beer World opened in 2023 inside the historic Bourse (Stock Exchange) building near the Grand Place. Interactive exhibits cover Belgium's 1,500+ beer styles, brewing processes, and history, showcasing the depth of Belgian beer culture — recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. The tour ends with a beer tasting on the rooftop bar overlooking Brussels. Admission about EUR 17 (includes one tasting). 1-minute walk from the Grand Place.

HoursTue-Sun 10:00-19:00 (closed Mon; Fri-Sat until 21:00).

LocationGrand-Place, Brussels

TipsThe rooftop bar tasting is included in the ticket, so don't skip it. Visit before or after the Grand Place for an efficient route.

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★ 4.4

Cinquantenaire Park

Cinquantenaire Park was created in 1880 to celebrate Belgium's 50th anniversary of independence. A grand triumphal arch (Arcades du Cinquantenaire) stands at its centre. The park houses the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces, Autoworld (a classic car museum), and the Jubilee Museum of Art and History — enough to fill a day. The wide lawns are always lively with picnickers and joggers, and the triumphal arch viewing platform offers a panorama of the Brussels skyline. Park free; museum admission varies. 3-minute walk from Metro 1/5 Mérode station.

HoursPark: 06:00-22:00. Museums: typically 10:00-17:00.

LocationCinquantenaire, Brussels

TipsThe triumphal arch viewpoint is free and offers views of Brussels's EU quarter. On nice days, pack a picnic lunch and relax on the lawn.

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★ 4.3

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Opened in 1989, the Belgian Comic Strip Center celebrates Belgium's comic culture — home of Tintin — inside a former department store designed by Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta. It displays original artwork and archives of world-famous Belgian characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, with interactive exhibits on comic history and the creation process. It connects to the city's Comic Strip Route of building murals, making it a great starting point for a mural walking tour. Admission about EUR 12. 5-minute walk from the Grand Place.

HoursTue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (last entry 17:00; closed Mon).

LocationSainte-Catherine, Brussels

TipsThe building itself is an Art Nouveau work by Victor Horta, so take time to admire the architecture too. Also worth following the nearby Comic Strip Route of building murals.

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★ 4.4

Autoworld

Located inside Cinquantenaire Park, Autoworld is Belgium's largest car museum, housing some 250 classic and vintage automobiles. It traces the full history of the automobile from the first cars of 1886 to 1970s sports cars, including limousines once used by the Belgian royal family and rare vehicles from pioneering marques like Minerva. Combine with the nearby Royal Museum of the Armed Forces for a full day out. Admission about EUR 18. 3-minute walk from Metro 1/5 Mérode station.

HoursMon-Fri 10:00-17:00, Sat-Sun 10:00-18:00.

LocationCinquantenaire, Brussels

TipsBook online at least a day ahead for a EUR 1 discount. A combined ticket with the other Cinquantenaire Park museums can save money.

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★ 4.6

Horta Museum

The Horta Museum occupies the house and studio where Art Nouveau master Victor Horta lived from 1898 to 1911, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Curving iron staircases, stained-glass windows, and Horta's signature approach to natural light appear throughout the building. Photography is not allowed inside, so visitors must take it all in with their eyes — original furniture and decor designed by Horta himself remain intact. Admission about EUR 14. About 15 minutes from the Grand Place on tram 81.

HoursTue-Sun 14:00-17:30 (closed Mon).

LocationSaint-Gilles, Brussels

TipsPhotography is banned inside, so store bags and cameras in the entrance lockers. The staircases are narrow and steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

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★ 4.3

Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Koekelberg

Construction of the Koekelberg Basilica began to mark the 75th anniversary of Belgian independence and finished in 1970, making it one of the largest Art Deco buildings in the world. Its green dome rises 89 meters and dominates the western Brussels skyline; it's the world's fifth-largest church building, with an interior filled with modernist stained glass on an overwhelming scale. A glass elevator carries visitors to a panorama deck with sweeping views over Brussels and its suburbs. Basilica free; panorama deck ticketed separately. 10-minute walk from Metro Line 2 Simonis station.

HoursBasilica 09:00-18:00 (summer) / 10:00-17:00 (winter); panorama 09:00-17:30 (last entry 17:00). Details may change; please verify before visiting.

LocationKoekelberg, Brussels

TipsIf the panorama elevator is under maintenance you'll need to climb 241 steps, so check ahead. Visit on a clear day for the farthest-reaching views over Brussels.

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★ 4.5

Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM)

The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) occupies the 1899 Art Nouveau department store 'Old England' and houses some 7,000 instruments from the Middle Ages to today. The included multimedia audio guide plays the actual sound of each instrument as you stand before it — a uniquely immersive experience. The top-floor restaurant offers views over central Brussels and the Royal Palace, making it a great spot for a meal with a view. Admission about EUR 15. 5-minute walk from the Grand Place.

HoursTue-Fri 09:30-17:00, Sat/Sun/holidays 10:00-17:00 (closed Mon; last entry 16:15).

LocationCity Centre, Brussels

TipsThe audio guide is included in admission, so bring your own 3.5mm headphones if you have them. Don't miss the view from the top-floor restaurant.

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★ 4.5

Train World

Train World opened to mark the 175th anniversary of Belgium's first railway and fills 8,000 square meters inside the historic Schaerbeek railway station. Visitors can touch and board locomotives and carriages spanning eras — from the 'Pays de Waes,' Belgium's oldest preserved steam engine, to the streamlined 'Type 12,' which set a world speed record in 1939. Its many hands-on interactive exhibits make it especially popular with families. Admission about EUR 15. 2-minute walk from Schaerbeek station.

HoursTue-Sun 10:00-17:00 (last entry 15:30; closed Mon).

LocationSchaerbeek, Brussels

TipsMany hands-on exhibits let kids climb aboard real locomotives, making it great for families. There's no luggage storage, so leave large suitcases behind.

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★ 4.2

Choco-Story Brussels

Choco-Story Brussels sits between the Grand Place and Manneken Pis, tracing chocolate's history from the origins of cacao to the invention of the Belgian praline, with an audio guide included. Admission also includes a live praline-making demonstration and tasting by a chocolatier, making it a treat for both eyes and taste buds. Combine with the Frietmuseum for a 10% discount on both. Admission about EUR 14. 2-minute walk from the Grand Place.

HoursDaily 10:00-18:00 (last entry 17:00).

LocationCity Centre, Brussels

TipsAdmission includes a chocolate tasting, so visiting a little hungry helps. Book combined with the Frietmuseum for a discount.

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★ 4.4

René Magritte Museum, Jette

Separate from the larger Magritte Museum in central Brussels, this house preserves the home where surrealist painter René Magritte actually lived and worked from 1930 to 1954. The living room where he painted, along with his original furniture and belongings, remains as it was — offering a rare chance to walk through the very space where his best-known works were created. The basement gallery also displays prints and photographs. Be careful not to confuse it with the central Magritte Museum. Admission about EUR 12. 5-minute walk from the Démineurs tram 51 stop.

HoursTue-Sun 10:00-18:00 (closed Mon). Details may change; please verify before visiting.

LocationJette, Brussels

TipsDouble-check the location before booking, since the name is similar to the central 'Magritte Museum.' The house is small, so groups should reserve ahead.

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★ 4.3

Coudenberg Palace

The Coudenberg Palace served as the royal residence of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Habsburgs from the 15th century until it burned down in 1731 and was buried and forgotten. Excavated beneath the Royal Palace square in the late 20th century, the underground ruins are now open to the public, revealing the foundations of the great hall (Aula Magna) and traces of the old Rue Isabelle through interactive displays. Entry is via the BELvue Museum, making it a good pairing for anyone interested in Belgian history. Admission about EUR 8. 5-minute walk from Brussels Central Station.

HoursTue-Fri 09:30-17:00, weekends and Jul-Aug 10:00-18:00.

LocationCity Centre, Brussels

TipsFree entry on the first Sunday of the month from 13:00-17:00. The underground ruins are cool, so bring a light jacket.

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★ 4.1

Halle Gate

Built in 1381 as part of Brussels's second city wall, Halle Gate is the city's last surviving medieval gate. It survived by being repurposed as a customs house and prison over the centuries, and today houses a museum across five floors linked by a spiral staircase, covering medieval Brussels's defenses and guild culture. The rooftop panorama over the Marolles district is temporarily closed for roof restoration until winter 2027, so check ahead. Admission about EUR 7. Right next to Porte de Hal metro station (Lines 2/6).

HoursTue-Fri 09:30-17:00, Sat-Sun 10:00-17:00 (closed Mon; rooftop closed for restoration until winter 2027). Details may change; please verify before visiting.

LocationMarolles, Brussels

TipsThe rooftop viewpoint is temporarily closed for restoration, so check the website before visiting. Free entry after 13:00 on the first Wednesday of each month.

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Things to Do in Brussels

Tour

Grand Place Night Illumination Tour

Admire the Grand Place's Baroque buildings illuminated at night with a guide, learning about the square's history and architectural secrets.

Price About EUR 15-25Duration About 1.5-2 hours

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Culture

Belgian Chocolate Workshop

Create your own praline chocolates alongside a Belgian chocolatier. Learn tempering, molding, and decorating techniques, and take home your creations. Held near Place du Sablon.

Price About EUR 35-60Duration About 2 hours

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Tour

Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

A guided tour of Brussels's traditional beer bars, sampling Trappist, lambic, gueuze, and other Belgian beer styles. Learn about brewing history and proper glass pairing.

Price About EUR 40-65 (tastings included)Duration About 3 hours

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Culture

Art Nouveau Architecture Walking Tour

Explore Brussels's UNESCO-listed Art Nouveau buildings designed by Victor Horta and other hidden gems on a guided architectural walking tour through the heart of the European Art Nouveau movement.

Price About EUR 20-40Duration About 2.5 hours

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Tour

Mini-Europe Visit

A theme park featuring 350 miniature landmarks from 27 European countries at 1:25 scale. See the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, and more in one place. Best combined with a visit to the Atomium.

Price About EUR 17Duration About 2 hours

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Tour

Sainte-Catherine Seafood Food Tour

A walking food tour around Sainte-Catherine square, tasting North Sea mussels, shrimp croquettes, oysters, and more at seafood restaurants and markets beloved by Brussels locals.

Price About EUR 55-80 (tastings included)Duration About 3 hours

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Must-Try Food in Brussels

Belgian Waffle

🍢 Street Food

Belgium's beloved crisp, sweet snack, available in Brussels-style and Liege-style varieties. About EUR 3-7. Maison Dandoy near the Grand Place has been the original since 1829, and Liege waffles from street stalls are also popular.

Belgian Chocolate

🍰 Dessert

World-class Belgian praline chocolates from makers like Godiva and Neuhaus. A box costs about EUR 10-30. The Neuhaus flagship near the Grand Place or Pierre Marcolini on Place du Grand Sablon are top spots.

Belgian Frites

🍢 Street Food

Twice-fried Belgian fries served with mayonnaise, crispy and golden. About EUR 3-5. Fritland near the Grand Place is a local favorite.

Carbonnade Flamande

🍱 Traditional

A Flemish beef stew braised slowly in Belgian beer, served with frites. About EUR 16-24. Try Chez Léon near the Grand Place or Les Petits Oignons in the Sablon.

Belgian Beer

🍵 Drink

Belgium's UNESCO-recognized beer culture boasts 1,500+ styles — Trappist, lambic, saison, and more. EUR 4-8 per glass. Try Delirium Café (2,000+ beers) near the Grand Place or the Belgian Beer World.

Crevettes Croquettes

🍱 Traditional

A Belgian classic — North Sea grey shrimp in creamy béchamel, breaded and deep-fried. The contrast of crispy exterior and smooth interior is sublime. EUR 12-18. Try seafood restaurants in the Sainte-Catherine district.

Speculoos

🍰 Dessert

A traditional Belgian spiced cookie with cinnamon and cloves — perfect with coffee. The Lotus Biscoff brand is famous. Available at supermarkets as a souvenir. EUR 2-5 per pack.

Brussels Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Brussels?

April-October is the best time to visit. In even-numbered years, the Grand Place hosts the Flower Carpet festival in August, and the December Christmas markets are also famous.

How much does it cost to travel in Brussels?

Daily budget around $85-155 (accommodation $50-100; food $20-35; transport and admissions $15-20).

How do I get around in Brussels?

About 20 minutes from Brussels Airport to Brussels Central Station by train. Get around the city by metro, tram, and bus — a STIB/MIVB day pass is recommended. Prepaid SIMs are available at the airport (Proximus, Orange, etc., about EUR 10-15/week). Card payments are widely accepted. Service is included in restaurant bills; leaving small change is appreciated but not required.

Do I need a visa to visit Brussels?

Korean passport holders can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days.

Is Brussels safe for tourists?

The Grand Place area is safe, but be cautious around Gare du Nord and outer neighborhoods at night.

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