Brussels Travel Guide | My Life Trips

Brussels

Information

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the most densely populated and richest region, with a population of 1.2 million. The metropolitan area of Brussels counts over 2.1 million people, which makes it the largest city in Belgium. Since the end of the Second World War, it has been a major centre for international politics and the home of numerous international organisations, politicians, diplomats and civil servants. Brussels is the base of European Union, as it hosts a number of principal EU institutions along with two other capitals, Luxembourg and Strasbourg. Brussels is known for its historical and architectural landmarks which some of them are registered as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of the main historic attractions of the city are, The Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, and many more.

What To See...

Grand Place

This huge square is definitely the most beautiful sight in Brussels! The historic Grand Place, is surrounded by beautiful buildings dating back to the 14th century. If there will be a characteristic Brussels photo, then this is definitely from Grand Place. Your visit here is a must…

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Cinquantenaire park is located on the east side of Brussels and is one of the largest parks in the city. The arch at the end of the park reminds us a lot of the Arc de Triumph in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. A very popular city attraction that you should definitely have to visit.

Atomium

A landmark for the city of Brussels is the impressive Atomium, which is located just outside the city center. This impressive building is 102 meters high and today it operates as a museum. You can visit it of course and you can also admire the magnificent views of the surrounding area, with a ticket price of 12 euros per person.

Royal Palace

Although the palace is not used as a royal residence, it is today one of the city’s most popular attractions. Impressive and huge in size, with a facade that is bigger than Buckingham Palace, is one of the sights you should see in Brussels.

European Parliament

This huge building is the seat of the European Parliament and the place where important meetings are taking place, for the future of millions of people living in EU countries. The building is open to the public and you can visit it every day from 10:00-18:00.

Mini Europe

Mini Europe is a park next to the famous Atomium in Heysel Park. The park has some of the most recognizable attractions in the world such as the Eiffel Tower, Acropolis, Colosseum and many others in miniature size. All the miniatures are accurate copies of the original sights, very well designed and surely will travel you all over the world in a very unique way. The ticket costs 11.80 euros per person and 18.10 euros if you want to visit the Atomium too.

Manneken Pis

One of the most famous attractions of the city is the Manekken Pis. A small statue depicting a little kid pissing. We have never understood why it is so popular and surely the incredible shops with the chocolates around it, will impress you more.

Bois de la Cambre

Bois de la Cambre is a huge park that is ideal for walking and various other activities. Here you will find lakes, bicycle paths and even a small forest to explore. Very good choice to get away from the bustle of the center.

Nearby Excursions

Brussels is definitely a beautiful city but one more reason to visit it, is that is very close to one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and our personal beloved, the enchanting Bruges. If you want to make a short trip while you are in Brussels, then Bruges choice is the best option. We have detailed information for this wonderful city on our website, and you can find everything you need here. The train trip to Bruges costs 28 euros per person roundtrip and takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes from (Brussels Midi) Central Station.

What To Eat

In Brussels and Belgium in general, you will have the chance to try some very tasty delicacies, especially sweets. Chocolate lovers will love Brussels, as everywhere in town there are shops with incredible handmade chocolates that will surely tempt you to try them.

Those of you who want to taste something else except sweets, in the city center, then a great choice is the Amadeus restaurant. The restaurant is located in the city center and serves mostly meat dishes, which you should definitely try. Beyond the great food, its beautiful decoration is also a plus.

How to move

Brussels is a huge city and you definitely need to use the public transport to explore it. Many of the city’s attractions, such as the Atomium, Mini Europe and some of the city’s most popular parks are quite far from the city center, and it is almost impossible to get there simply by walking. The best solution is the metro, that will take you everywhere in the city safely, quickly and cheap. A one way ticket costs 2.10 euros per person, but you also have the option to buy multiple ticket cards for 24,48 and 72 hours, which are the most cheap and advantageous options. Brussels Airport is only 12 km away from the city center and is very easily accessible by train from Brussels Central Station. The ticket costs 12,70 euros per person for one route.

Where to stay

In Brussels, everyone will be able to find what they are asking for in terms of accommodation, since the options are endless. There are of course, choices of luxury accommodations in the center of the city and around Grand Place, where prices can easily reach 100-200 euros for a double room for one night, but there are a lot of cheaper choices, around 60-80 euros also very close to the central square. The choice is yours and depends on the budget you have and the amenities you ask for. You can make your bookings via Booking.com

Booking.com