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Brussels travel guide

Belgium

Basics

CountryBelgium

Time zoneEurope/Brussels

CurrencyEUR

Official language(s)Dutch

Make sure to try the waffles and chocolates during your visit. Public transportation is convenient, so use it to get around.

Places to visit

Cinquantenaire Park

A large urban park centered on the triumphal arch and surrounded by museums. It is great for a walk and for taking in one of Brussels’ most iconic views.

LocationParc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Nearest stationMerode

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipCombine it with nearby museums for a half-day itinerary. On a sunny day, it is also a pleasant spot for a picnic.

Oldmasters Museum

A museum of masterpieces in Flemish and European classical painting. It is especially rewarding if you enjoy Bruegel, Rubens, and the development of early modern art.

LocationRue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Nearest stationBruxelles-Central

HoursTue-Fri 10:00–17:00, Sat-Sun 11:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipThe collection is broad, so it helps to focus on a few favorite artists rather than trying to see everything at once.

Autoworld

A major car museum featuring classic automobiles and motorcycles. It is a must-see in Brussels for anyone who loves automotive history.

LocationParc du Cinquantenaire 11, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Nearest stationMerode

HoursDaily 10:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipIt pairs well with the nearby park and other museums. Plan extra time if you like taking photos, as there is a lot to see.

Musical Instruments Museum

A museum famous for its unique collection of instruments and its rooftop views. Audio devices let you hear sounds from different eras and regions.

LocationRue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Nearest stationBruxelles-Central

HoursTue-Fri 09:30–17:00, Sat-Sun 10:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipTo make the most of the visit, plan time for the rooftop restaurant/viewpoint as well.

BELvue Museum

A royal museum that gives a compact overview of Belgian history and society. It is a good first stop for understanding constitutional monarchy, democracy, and modern Belgium.

LocationPlace des Palais 7, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Nearest stationBruxelles-Central

HoursTue-Sun 09:30–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipPair it with the nearby royal quarter and parks. An audio guide helps make the exhibits easier to follow.

Brabant Park

An urban park with various plants and sculptures, providing a serene retreat.

HoursDaily 06:00 - 20:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipA great place for walks or picnics.

Brussels Stock Exchange

A major financial hub in Belgium, known for its beautiful architecture.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipThere are many cafes and restaurants nearby; great for a meal after visiting.

Brussels Bronze Statue

A statue symbolizing Brussels, a favorite photo spot for visitors.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipVisit at sunset for beautiful night views.

Grand Place

A beautiful square located in the heart of Brussels, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipVisit during the weekend for many events and performances.

Food to try

Maison Dandoy

A historic dessert café famous for traditional Belgian biscuits and waffles.

LocationRue Charles Buls 14, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Nearest stationBrussels-Central

HoursUsually 09:00–18:00

AdmissionWaffles and desserts roughly €5–15

Travel tipWaffles are best enjoyed fresh right after ordering.

Le Pain Quotidien

A popular restaurant offering European cuisine made with fresh ingredients.

HoursMon - Fri: 12:00 - 14:30, 19:00 - 22:30

Admission€20-€50

Travel tipIt's recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Events

Belgian Comic Strip Center exhibitions and events

A key cultural venue with permanent exhibitions and special events centered on Belgian comic art.

WhenYear-round

LocationRue des Sables 20, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Nearest stationBrussels-Central

HoursUsually daily 10:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipIt is a great rainy-day option and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Brussels Beer Festival

A major beer festival held in Brussels where various beers can be tasted.

WhenEvery October

Travel tipYou can buy tickets in advance for discounted entry.

Brussels Flower Carpet

A famous flower display held every year, showcasing a variety of beautiful flowers.

WhenEvery August

HoursOperates during the event period

AdmissionFree or some viewing areas may be ticketed

Travel tipGo early to find a good viewing spot.

Subway lines

Métro M1: Gare Centrale → AnderluesMétro M2: Gare Centrale → AnderluesMétro M3: Gosselies → Gare CentraleMétro M4: Gare Centrale → SoleilmontMetro 1: Gare de l'Ouest/Weststation → Stockel/StokkelMetro 2: Simonis → ElisabethMetro 5: Erasme/Erasmus → Herrmann-DebrouxMetro 6: Roi Baudouin/Koning Boudewijn → Elisabeth

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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