City Guide for Brussels

Grand Place (Grote Markt) is Brussels' central square and a UNESCO World Heritage site, framed by opulent 17th-century guildhalls, the Gothic Town Hall, and the Maison du Roi/Broodhuis. It hosts the biennial Flower Carpet, seasonal light shows, and Christmas festivities. Easily reached from Brussels-Central, it's a lively hub for architecture, cafes, and city events.

Brussels’ Atomium is a 102‑meter landmark from Expo 58, depicting an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Its nine stainless‑steel spheres host permanent and temporary exhibitions and a top‑sphere restaurant. Ride escalators and tubes between spheres to reach the panorama for 360‑degree city views. Located on the Heysel/Heizel plateau, accessible by metro.

Manneken Pis is Brussels' emblematic 17th-century bronze fountain of a urinating boy, created in 1619 by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder. Just a short walk from Grand Place at Rue de l'Étuve/Rue du Chêne, the 61-cm statue is free to view and is frequently dressed in themed costumes; his wardrobe is displayed nearby.

The historic heart of Brussels, where a stunning medieval square, ornate guild houses, hidden arcades, and endless Belgian chocolate shops create an unforgettable first impression of the city.

A fascinating northern neighbourhood combining the iconic Atomium, royal parklands, exotic pavilions, and canal-side cycling routes for a side of Brussels that most tourists never get to see.

A lively and cosmopolitan neighbourhood buzzing with Art Deco architecture, multicultural restaurants, weekend markets, and a relaxed local vibe that makes it a favourite among Brussels insiders.

Brussels' bohemian gem, where jaw-dropping Art Nouveau facades line residential streets, lively squares fill with locals, and a creative multicultural atmosphere makes every corner worth exploring.

Bruges is a fairy-tale medieval city of canals, chocolate shops, and Gothic architecture just one hour from Brussels by direct train. It is one of Europe's most romantic and well-preserved historic cities.

Dinant is a dramatically beautiful town carved into limestone cliffs along the Meuse River, famous for its Citadel, its connection to the saxophone, and stunning Ardennes scenery just 90 minutes from Brussels.

Ghent is a vibrant, youthful medieval city blending stunning architecture with a buzzing local culture. Just 30 minutes from Brussels by train, it offers art, history, great food, and a genuinely authentic Belgian atmosphere.

Leuven is a charming university city combining magnificent Gothic architecture, a UNESCO-listed Béguinage, and a vibrant beer culture, all just 30 minutes from Brussels by train with a wonderfully authentic local atmosphere.