Things to do in Brussels: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Grand Place, Brussels
Overview: Grand Place is the central square of Brussels, known for its stunning medieval architecture.
History: It dates back to the 11th century and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1998.
Since When: Grand Place has been the heart of Brussels since the medieval era.
Review: Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of the square, especially when illuminated at night.
When to Go: Best visited during spring and summer, especially during the biennial Flower Carpet in August.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro, bus, or on foot from Brussels Central Station.
What to Do: Admire the ornate guild houses, visit the Town Hall, and enjoy local cafes.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Atomium, Brussels
Overview: The Atomium is an iconic structure and museum, originally built for the 1958 World Expo, representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
History: Constructed for Expo 58, the Atomium has since become a symbol of modern Brussels.
Since When: Opened in 1958.
Review: A popular attraction for its unique design and panoramic views of Brussels from the top sphere.
When to Go: Open year-round, with the clearest views during spring and summer.
How to Go: Take the metro to Heysel/Heizel station, which is a short walk from the Atomium.
What to Do: Explore the exhibitions inside, and enjoy views from the top observation deck.
Free or Paid: Paid; tickets are required for entry.
Manneken Pis, Brussels
Overview: Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a boy urinating into a fountain, symbolizing Brussels’ humor and resilience.
History: The statue was originally installed in 1619, though it has been replaced and stolen multiple times throughout history.
Since When: The current version of the statue dates back to 1965.
Review: Though small in size, it is one of Brussels’ most famous and quirky landmarks.
When to Go: Open to view year-round, with special costumes displayed on certain holidays.
How to Go: A short walk from Grand Place, easily accessible on foot.
What to Do: Take a photo, enjoy the surrounding shops, and visit the nearby Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke Pis statues.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, Brussels
Overview: The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is a luxurious shopping arcade with elegant glass ceilings, featuring boutiques, cafes, and theaters.
History: Opened in 1847, it was one of the first shopping arcades in Europe.
Since When: The gallery has been a prominent shopping destination since its inauguration in the mid-19th century.
Review: Visitors love its architectural beauty and the variety of high-end shops and cafes.
When to Go: Open year-round, but best enjoyed during the daytime for shopping and sightseeing.
How to Go: Located near Grand Place, it’s easily accessible on foot or by public transport from Brussels Central Station.
What to Do: Shop for luxury items, enjoy a coffee, or visit the gallery’s historic theaters.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; shopping and dining are paid.
Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels
Overview: Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large public park known for its triumphal arch and surrounding museums.
History: It was commissioned by King Leopold II in 1880 to celebrate Belgium’s 50th anniversary of independence.
Since When: The park and its arch were completed in 1905.
Review: Loved for its beautiful gardens, historical architecture, and the museums within the park.
When to Go: Best enjoyed in spring and summer when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
How to Go: Take the metro to Merode or Schuman stations, both within walking distance of the park.
What to Do: Stroll through the park, visit the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, or climb the arch for panoramic views.
Free or Paid: Free to visit; museum entries are paid.
Parc de Bruxelles, Brussels
Overview: Parc de Bruxelles is the largest urban park in central Brussels, offering a green escape with fountains, statues, and walking paths.
History: Originally the royal hunting grounds, it was redesigned into a public park in the 18th century.
Since When: The park has been open to the public since 1776.
Review: A peaceful spot for relaxation, locals and tourists enjoy its serene atmosphere and proximity to key landmarks.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or summer for pleasant weather and vibrant greenery.
How to Go: Accessible by metro from Parc or Arts-Loi stations.
What to Do: Enjoy walking, picnicking, or attending outdoor events and concerts.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
Overview: St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral is a stunning Gothic cathedral and a key religious landmark in Brussels.
History: Its origins date back to the 9th century, with major Gothic renovations in the 13th century.
Since When: The cathedral has been in use since the Middle Ages, with its Gothic structure completed by 1519.
Review: Visitors are impressed by its majestic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
When to Go: Open year-round; visiting on sunny days enhances the light through the stained glass.
How to Go: A short walk from Brussels Central Station, easily accessible by public transport.
What to Do: Explore the interior, attend services, or admire the artwork and crypt.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; donations are appreciated for maintenance.
Mount of the Arts, Brussels
Overview: The Mount of the Arts (Mont des Arts) is a historic hill in Brussels offering panoramic views of the city and home to several cultural institutions.
History: Created in the late 19th century, it became a cultural hub with its gardens and museums during the 1958 World Expo.
Since When: The area has been a prominent landmark since the 1950s.
Review: A favorite for its beautiful gardens, museums, and scenic views, it’s a top photo spot.
When to Go: Best visited during the day for museums, or at sunset for great views of the city.
How to Go: Located between the Royal Palace and Grand Place, it’s easily accessible on foot or by metro.
What to Do: Visit nearby museums, enjoy the gardens, or take in the views of central Brussels.
Free or Paid: Free to walk around; museums may have entry fees.
SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Brussels, Brussels
Overview: SANDEMANs offers free walking tours through Brussels, covering the city’s history, landmarks, and hidden gems.
History: Part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, these tours have been guiding tourists in Brussels for over a decade.
Since When: The tours have been operating in Brussels since 2009.
Review: Highly rated for informative guides and entertaining storytelling, these tours are a great introduction to Brussels.
When to Go: Available year-round, with multiple daily tours.
How to Go: Tours typically start at Grand Place; easily accessible by public transport or on foot.
What to Do: Join the walking tour to explore top landmarks like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and more.
Free or Paid: Free, but tips are encouraged for the guides.
Bois de la Cambre, Brussels
Overview: Bois de la Cambre is a vast park on the southern edge of Brussels, offering forested areas, lakes, and recreational facilities.
History: It was originally part of the Sonian Forest and transformed into a public park in the 19th century.
Since When: Opened as a public park in 1861.
Review: Loved for its natural beauty, it’s a favorite spot for locals seeking nature and outdoor activities.
When to Go: Best visited in spring and summer for walking, boating, and picnicking.
How to Go: Take tram or bus to reach the park from Brussels’ city center.
What to Do: Walk, cycle, boat on the lake, or enjoy a meal at the lakeside restaurant.
Free or Paid: Free to visit; some activities may have fees (like boat rentals).
Royal Palace of Brussels, Brussels
Overview: The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the Belgian monarchy, though it is not used as a royal residence.
History: Built in the 18th century, the palace has served as the administrative and ceremonial seat of the Belgian monarchy.
Since When: The current version of the palace dates back to 1820.
Review: Visitors admire its opulent architecture and the chance to explore royal history during the summer opening.
When to Go: The palace is open to the public only during the summer months (July to September).
How to Go: Located near Brussels Park, easily reachable by metro or bus from central Brussels.
What to Do: Tour the palace’s grand rooms and halls, learning about Belgian royal history.
Free or Paid: Free entry during the summer opening period.
Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Brussels
Overview: The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences is a major museum focusing on natural history, especially famous for its dinosaur exhibits.
History: Established in 1846, it houses over 37 million specimens, including a world-renowned collection of Iguanodon skeletons.
Since When: The museum has been welcoming the public since 1846.
Review: A must-visit for families and science enthusiasts, the dinosaur hall is particularly impressive.
When to Go: Open year-round, best visited during weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Accessible by metro (Maelbeek or Schuman stations) and bus routes.
What to Do: Explore exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, evolution, and biodiversity.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for students, children, and seniors.
Mini-Europe, Brussels
Overview: Mini-Europe is a miniature park that features detailed models of famous landmarks from countries across the European Union.
History: Opened in 1989, Mini-Europe showcases over 350 models of Europe’s most famous sites, crafted to a scale of 1:25.
Since When: Mini-Europe has been entertaining visitors since 1989.
Review: Fun and educational, visitors appreciate its intricate models and the overview it provides of Europe’s landmarks.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or summer when the outdoor exhibits are most enjoyable.
How to Go: Located in Bruparck, near the Atomium, accessible by metro (Heysel/Heizel station).
What to Do: Wander through the park, observing miniature versions of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with family and group ticket options available.
Autoworld, Brussels
Overview: Autoworld is a museum dedicated to the history of automobiles, showcasing a vast collection of vintage cars from different eras.
History: Housed in the historic Cinquantenaire Park, Autoworld has been a cultural landmark since its opening in 1986.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1986, with its collection constantly expanding.
Review: Car enthusiasts highly recommend it for its impressive array of classic cars and rotating themed exhibitions.
When to Go: Open year-round, perfect for car lovers and history buffs alike.
How to Go: Located in Cinquantenaire Park, accessible via metro (Merode station) or buses.
What to Do: Explore exhibits showcasing over 250 cars, ranging from the early 20th century to modern-day vehicles.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with family and group ticket options available.
Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Brussels
Overview: Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a stunning 19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcade featuring luxury shops, cafes, and theaters.
History: Opened in 1847, it was one of the first shopping arcades in Europe and has remained a key destination for shopping and leisure.
Since When: The gallery has been a stylish shopping destination since 1847.
Review: Visitors admire its elegant architecture, high-end boutiques, and relaxing atmosphere, making it perfect for strolling.
When to Go: Open year-round; ideal for shopping or enjoying a coffee in any season.
How to Go: Centrally located near the Grand Place, easily accessible on foot or via metro (Central Station).
What to Do: Shop at luxury boutiques, enjoy Belgian chocolates, or visit a theater performance.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; purchases or theater tickets are paid.
Jeanneke Pis, Brussels
Overview: Jeanneke Pis is a small, playful statue of a girl urinating, created as a counterpart to the famous Manneken Pis.
History: Installed in 1987, it was created by Denis-Adrien Debouvrie to add a female version to the famous Manneken Pis statue.
Since When: The statue has been amusing visitors since 1987.
Review: Though less famous than its male counterpart, visitors appreciate its humor and quirky charm.
When to Go: Open year-round, accessible at any time of day.
How to Go: Located in a small alley near the Grand Place, easily accessible on foot.
What to Do: Take photos and enjoy the humor of this offbeat attraction.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, Brussels
Overview: The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium house an extensive collection of classical and modern art across several museums.
History: Established in 1801 by Napoleon, the museum collection has grown to include more than 20,000 works.
Since When: The museum has been a cultural landmark since 1801.
Review: Highly regarded for its impressive collection of Old Masters like Rubens and Bruegel, as well as modern art exhibits.
When to Go: Open year-round, with quieter visits during weekdays.
How to Go: Easily reachable by metro (Parc station) or bus from central Brussels.
What to Do: Explore diverse exhibitions spanning centuries of European art.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for students and seniors.
Choco-Story Brussels, Brussels
Overview: Choco-Story Brussels is a museum dedicated to the history and art of chocolate making, a Belgian specialty.
History: Opened in 2014, it offers an immersive experience into the world of Belgian chocolate through exhibits and demonstrations.
Since When: It has been educating visitors on Belgian chocolate since 2014.
Review: Visitors rave about the interactive exhibits and chocolate tastings, making it a fun and delicious stop.
When to Go: Open year-round, ideal for a visit on a rainy day.
How to Go: Located near the Grand Place, easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
What to Do: Learn about the history of chocolate, watch demonstrations, and enjoy tastings.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with tasting included.
Josaphat Park, Brussels
Overview: Josaphat Park is a large, scenic urban park offering green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas.
History: Created in 1904, the park was designed to provide a natural retreat for the people of Brussels.
Since When: The park has been a popular local getaway since 1904.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, ideal for picnics, walks, and outdoor activities.
When to Go: Best visited during spring and summer when the weather is pleasant and the greenery is in full bloom.
How to Go: Accessible by tram and bus, located in the Schaerbeek district.
What to Do: Enjoy walking, picnicking, or watching local wildlife in this urban oasis.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Magritte Museum, Brussels
Overview: The Magritte Museum is dedicated to the life and works of René Magritte, Belgium’s most famous surrealist artist.
History: Opened in 2009, it houses over 200 original works of Magritte, offering a comprehensive view of his career.
Since When: The museum has been a key attraction for art lovers since 2009.
Review: Visitors are fascinated by the depth of the collection and the insight it provides into Magritte’s surrealist world.
When to Go: Open year-round, with fewer crowds during weekdays.
How to Go: Located within the Royal Museums of Fine Arts complex, accessible by metro (Trône or Parc stations).
What to Do: Explore Magritte’s iconic paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for students and seniors.
Parc de Laeken – Royal Parc, Brussels
Overview: Parc de Laeken is a sprawling royal park known for its beautiful landscapes, grand greenhouses, and serene walking paths.
History: Originally created in the 19th century, it surrounds the Royal Castle of Laeken, home to the Belgian royal family.
Since When: Open to the public since the 19th century, with limited access to certain royal areas.
Review: Visitors enjoy its peaceful ambiance, well-maintained gardens, and the iconic Royal Greenhouses.
When to Go: Best visited in spring when the Royal Greenhouses open to the public, or any time for park walks.
How to Go: Accessible via tram or bus from the city center, located in the northern part of Brussels.
What to Do: Stroll through the gardens, visit the greenhouses (seasonal), or enjoy the scenic views of the royal palace.
Free or Paid: Free to visit the park, but the greenhouses have a paid entry during their open season.
Parlamentarium, Brussels
Overview: The Parlamentarium is the visitors’ center of the European Parliament, offering interactive exhibits about the European Union.
History: Opened in 2011 to educate the public about the workings and history of the European Union.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 2011.
Review: Visitors praise its engaging, multimedia experience and its ability to make European politics accessible to all ages.
When to Go: Open year-round, with fewer crowds during weekdays.
How to Go: Located near the European Parliament, accessible via metro (Schuman or Maelbeek stations).
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and learn about the EU’s history and functions.
Free or Paid: Free entry.
Train World, Brussels
Overview: Train World is an immersive museum that showcases the rich history of Belgium’s railways, featuring vintage locomotives and modern trains.
History: Opened in 2015, it was developed to display the Belgian railway heritage, being one of the oldest railway networks in Europe.
Since When: Train World has been transporting visitors into railway history since 2015.
Review: Visitors love the museum’s well-curated exhibits, the chance to explore real trains, and its family-friendly appeal.
When to Go: Open year-round, ideal for a visit on any day, especially with children.
How to Go: Located at the Schaerbeek train station, accessible by train or tram.
What to Do: Explore interactive exhibits, walk through historic and modern trains, and learn about railway technology.
Free or Paid: Paid entry.
Leopold Park, Brussels
Overview: Leopold Park is a peaceful urban green space, perfect for relaxing near the European Parliament.
History: Originally part of a zoological garden in the 19th century, it became a public park in the early 20th century.
Since When: It has been a public park since the early 1900s.
Review: Loved for its tranquil atmosphere, picturesque ponds, and proximity to EU institutions.
When to Go: Best enjoyed during spring and summer for its lush greenery.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro (Schuman or Maelbeek stations) and bus, located in the European Quarter.
What to Do: Relax by the pond, stroll through the park, or visit the nearby EU institutions.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Musical Instruments Museum, Brussels
Overview: The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM) houses an extensive collection of over 8,000 instruments from across the world.
History: Founded in 1877, it began as part of the Royal Music Conservatory, showcasing rare and unique musical instruments.
Since When: It has been a key cultural attraction in Brussels since 1877.
Review: Visitors enjoy the museum’s unique audio guides that play music from the instruments on display, making it a sensory-rich experience.
When to Go: Open year-round, but quieter on weekdays.
How to Go: Accessible via metro (Trône or Parc stations) or on foot from the city center.
What to Do: Explore various musical instruments, listen to audio samples, and visit the rooftop café for panoramic city views.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for students and seniors.
Zinneke Pis, Brussels
Overview: Zinneke Pis is a quirky bronze statue of a dog urinating, complementing Brussels’ famous Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis statues.
History: Installed in 1998 as a humorous nod to the city’s mascot and culture of fun.
Since When: The statue has been a fixture in Brussels since 1998.
Review: Loved for its charm and uniqueness, it adds a playful touch to Brussels’ streets.
When to Go: Visit any time of year while exploring the city center.
How to Go: Located on Rue des Chartreux, easily accessible by walking from the Grand Place.
What to Do: Snap a photo of this amusing street art as part of a self-guided tour of Brussels’ offbeat landmarks.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, Brussels
Overview: The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History offers an extensive collection of military artifacts from Belgium and across the world.
History: Established in 1923, the museum commemorates Belgium’s military history from the Middle Ages to the present.
Since When: It has been open to the public since 1923.
Review: Visitors appreciate the vast collections, particularly the impressive aircraft hall and well-preserved uniforms and weaponry.
When to Go: Open year-round; weekdays are quieter for an in-depth visit.
How to Go: Located in Parc du Cinquantenaire, accessible by metro (Merode or Schuman stations).
What to Do: Explore military exhibits, including World War memorabilia and an impressive aircraft hangar.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with free access on the first Wednesday of the month.
National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, Brussels
Overview: The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one of the largest churches in the world, offering stunning views of Brussels.
History: Built to commemorate Belgium’s 75th anniversary of independence, its construction spanned from 1905 to 1970.
Since When: Opened in 1970, though construction began much earlier in 1905.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the grandiose architecture and panoramic views from the dome.
When to Go: Best visited on clear days to enjoy the views from the dome’s observation deck.
How to Go: Easily accessible by metro (Simonis station) or bus.
What to Do: Explore the stunning interior, visit the art exhibits, and climb to the dome for city views.
Free or Paid: Entry is free, but there is a small fee to access the dome.
St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule), Brussels
Overview: St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and the primary Catholic church in Brussels.
History: The cathedral’s origins date back to the 9th century, with major construction taking place between the 13th and 15th centuries.
Since When: The cathedral has been a central place of worship for over 800 years.
Review: Visitors admire its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate architecture, and peaceful atmosphere.
When to Go: Open year-round, with fewer crowds in the early morning or late afternoon.
How to Go: Located near the central train station, it’s easily accessible by foot or metro (Gare Centrale station).
What to Do: Admire the Gothic architecture, visit the crypt, and enjoy the beautiful stained-glass windows.
Free or Paid: Free entry, though donations are appreciated.
Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon, Brussels
Overview: The Church of Our Lady of Victories is a beautiful late-Gothic church in the heart of the Sablon district, known for its ornate interior.
History: Built in the 15th century, it became a place of worship for the city’s aristocracy and the crossbow guild.
Since When: The church has been a prominent landmark since its completion in the 15th century.
Review: Visitors praise its stunning stained-glass windows, rich history, and peaceful ambiance.
When to Go: Open year-round, but best enjoyed in the morning when it’s quiet.
How to Go: Located in the Sablon area, it is easily reachable by walking from central Brussels or by tram.
What to Do: Explore the intricate interior, admire the stained-glass windows, and learn about its connection to the aristocracy.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.