Things to Do in Brussels: A Complete Guide to Belgium's Capital

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As I began planning my spring trip to Europe, I knew Amsterdam and the tulips were on the agenda. I also knew I wanted to go back and visit Paris. I had been to Amsterdam and Paris before, but my time there was very short. As I was thinking about another destination to add, Brussels popped into my mind. First, I had never been, and logistically it made sense. Second, I had heard that not only are there several things to do in Brussels, but there are also some great day trips from Brussels.

And so, I started planning my Euro-spring trip and started researching all of the things to do in Brussels. In this guide, I will be diving into everything I saw and did in Brussels, so that your trip to this amazing Belgian city is as memorable as mine was.

Introduction: Things to do in Brussels

In my opinion, Brussels is a destination that can be overlooked when planning a trip to Europe. And honestly, a hidden gem and a city that is frequently less visited is what intrigued me the most. Visiting Brussels really forced me to slow down and get lost in the streets. I was able to enjoy a little “quiet” time as I was able to explore without the same crowds I had in Paris.

Between the delicious food, green parks, and amazing architecture, there are so many things to do in Brussels for every type of traveler. Now, let’s get into all of the things I did in Brussels that helped make my trip to Belgium a memorable experience.

1. Grand Place

If there is one place that you absolutely must visit while in Brussels, it’s the Grand Palace. There was something very magical about visiting the Grand Palace and literally having my breath taken away.

The details in the architecture, the history, literally stopped me in my tracks, and I just stood there, taking it all in, and feeling thankful for being able to be here.

Even though I was here during the afternoon, it didn’t feel overly busy, and it was nice to see travelers buzzing around, locals enjoying the square, and just soaking in the beauty that this palace offered.

What I loved most, I think, is how visiting between day and night offers you two completely different perspectives. During the day, you get to see everyone buzzing around, and at night, between the building being lit up and the energy everyone had, it really felt magical and offered two completely different perspectives.

Regardless of the time of year you visit or time of day, I feel like every time you visit the Grand Palace, you will have a completely different experience, and your visits will never feel the same.

Discover things to do in Brussels Belgium, from historic squares, world-famous waffles, hidden gems, chocolate shops, museums, and local experiences.

2. Belgian Waffles

If you are a foodie like me, then you know that trying the local foods and specialties wherever you are only enhances your trip and allows you to feel fully immersed in the local culture. And Brussels is no different. I knew as I was planning my trip that having an authentic Belgian waffle was an absolute must!

Eating my way through cities is just as important to me as visiting iconic attractions. And of course, I had eaten waffles before, but after having a Belgian waffle, my taste for waffles has completely changed. Finding a little coffee and savoring each bite just enhanced my trip to Brussels more than I could have imagined.

Even though I was only there for two days, I still managed to try several waffles in different cafes. The smell, the stillness, the experience, nothing beats finding a cozy cafe, and just enjoying the experience of the cafe, and enjoying a waffle like you never have before.

Whether you try one with powdered sugar, strawberries, plain, or chocolate, each one is equally amazing, and there is a waffle experience for everyone. If you are headed to Brussels and need a food recommendation, adding trying a Belgian waffle to your itinerary is a must! You can literally enjoy one anywhere, and it will be truly amazing.

3. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

One of my favorite areas to wander around and soak in the city was the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. Visiting this area became one of my favorite spots in Brussels, and I felt like I had stepped back into time. Between the storefronts, quaint cafes, chocolate shops, and beautiful glass ceiling, it was the perfect place to wander around, even if you had zero intentions of shopping.

This elegant gallery was charming, and even though it was busy when I was there in April, I found it the perfect place to enjoy local shops, buy some chocolate, and I even found a Belgian souvenir spoon that I collect from every state and country that I visit.

If your vibe is shopping, trying some chocolate, or just looking for a place to get lost in Brussels, then I would highly recommend ensuring you visit the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert.

Discover best things to do in Brussels Belgium, from historic squares, world-famous waffles, hidden gems, chocolate shops, museums, and local experiences.

4. Belgian Chocolate Experiences

Another food experience I knew I absolutely couldn’t miss while visiting Brussels was trying some authentic Belgian chocolate. I love chocolate and have tried some amazing pieces, but nothing prepares you and your taste buds for chocolate from Belgium.

On this trip to Brussels, I sampled several pieces, and each and every piece I tried was absolutely amazing. Every local shop offers a little spin and its own unique flavor/style, but they were all equally amazing.

My food tour completely changed the way I think about chocolate. I discovered that it’s so much more than a delicious treat; it’s an art form.

Even if you are someone who doesn’t love chocolate, I would highly recommend a sample or two, and a trip to Brussels without trying some chocolate, just wouldn’t be the same.

5. Manneken Pis

When I started my search for things to do in Brussels, the number one must-see on my list was the Manneken Pis. Now, most people have no idea what that is, and most know this as the little boy status peeing into the fountain.

Honestly, this is probably the most popular attraction in Brussels, and while it’s very small, it’s also heavily protected. It’s one of Brussels most recognized attractions, and honestly, it’s super cute and funny, and just highlighted my trip (I think I took more pictures of this statue than I did of anything else in Brussels).

I did a walking tour on this visit, and I would highly recommend it, because the commentary and history of the statue and of everything we visited just enhanced my trip even more.

Discover the top things to do in Brussels Belgium, from historic squares, world-famous waffles, hidden gems, chocolate shops, museums, and local experiences.

6. Mont des Arts

If iconic views are on your itinerary, as they are always on mine, then you need to make sure you take a trip to Mont des Arts. From here, you can see the amazing Brussels skyline that you can’t get from anywhere else in the city.

Visiting this viewpoint doesn’t just offer incredible views; you can also experience the gardens, museums, and other cultural spaces that only make you feel more connected to the city.

This is a great place ot come right before sunset, have a picnic, and just slow down and enjoy the amazing views, stillness, and soak it all in.

7. Belgian Beer Culture

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply curious about Belgium’s rich cultural heritage, the Belgian Brewers Museum is a worthwhile stop in Brussels. You don’t have to be a beer drinker to appreciate the important role beer has played in shaping Belgian history and traditions. Inside the museum, you’ll discover the centuries-old brewing techniques, fascinating history, and craftsmanship that have made Belgian beer world-renowned.

This museum is located in the historic Brewers’ House on the Grand Palace and really focuses on the history of the Belgian beer culture and the history of brewing in the country.

It’s an experience that offers insight into Belgian culture in a way museums often can’t.

8. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

I have to say, one of my favorite adventures that I had on my Brussels itinerary was a day trip from Brussels to the storybook cities of Bruges and Ghent.

I opted for a tour because it included transportation to both of these cities, provided great commentary, and just made the logistics easier.

Visiting both of these cities literally made me feel like I was in a real-life fairytale, from the canals to the architecture to the incredible postcard views around every corner. This was a true highlight to visiting Brussels.

Adding one of these cities to your itinerary allows you to experience a broader side of Belgium and gives you an even greater appreciation for the country’s incredible diversity.

Discover things to do in brussels for a day, from historic squares, world-famous waffles, hidden gems, chocolate shops, museums, and local experiences.

Conclusion: Things to do in Brussels

I can honestly say that visiting Brussels exceeded my expectations. I didn’t always hear the best things from others as I planned my trip, and I am so glad that I continued on, took the trip, and was able to formulate my own opinion and appreciate everything this city had to offer.

Whether you are a foodie, into architecture, or want to enjoy some day trips, there is definitely no shortage of things to do in Brussels. Visiting Brussels wasn’t just about a stop between visiting Paris and Amsterdam. It was about immersing myself in the Belgian culture and taking in everything this beautiful city had to offer.