Travel Guide to Brussels, Belgium

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Ra's Travel Guide to Brussels

The capital of Belgium and the city referred to as the “Capital of Europe”; a complete travel guide to Brussels.

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Table of Contents

    Brussels, dubbed the “Capital of Europe” for its hosting of key government programs and organizations like the European Union, boasts stunning Gothic and Baroque-style architecture. Its allure extends to its culinary delights, including delectable frites, waffles, and chocolates, enticing millions of visitors annually. Don't miss the unique charm of Mannekin Pis. Immerse yourself in this diverse, multilingual city and delve into Belgian culture with this complete travel guide to Brussels.

    Getting to Brussels, Belgium: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

    As the heart of Europe, Brussels offers various transportation options, including buses, planes, cars, boats, and trains, catering to different budgets. For travelers coming from afar or beyond Western Europe, flying into Brussels Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport is recommended. Both airports provide direct shuttles or public transportation to Gare Midi or the city center. It's important to note that budget airlines primarily operate from Brussels South Charleroi Airport, so double-check your airport when booking flights.

    Brussels boasts five stations connecting it with Europe: Central Station, South Station (servicing London, Amsterdam, and Paris via Eurostar, and France via TGV high-speed rail service), North Station (to Amsterdam), Luxembourg Station (to Luxembourg), and Schuman Station (serving European institutions). While train travel may take longer, it offers scenic routes and can often be budget-friendly. Consider purchasing a Trainline pass if you plan on frequent European travel to save money.

    Similarly, several bus companies, including Flixbus, provide international bus tickets to and from Brussels daily. While traveling by bus is usually the cheapest option, it can also be the longest.

    Within Brussels, the Brussels Cruise Terminal, located in the Port of Brussels, serves river-cruise boats and may expand to inter-country travel in the future.

    Traveling by car, whether personal or carpooling with services like BlaBlaCar, is another option. However, Brussels-Capital Region operates as a low-emission zone, prohibiting most polluting vehicles. Foreign-registered cars must be registered before entering the city, irrespective of their origin. Check the website www.lez.brussels to ensure compliance with vehicle emissions standards.

    During my visit to Brussels from Eastern Europe, I flew with a budget airline, landing at Brussels South Charleroi Airport unexpectedly. Although this option was more budget-friendly, transportation to and from the airport cost around $25 round trip, which came as a surprise.

    When planning travel routes, assessing costs, and considering transportation options, tools like Rome2rio are invaluable. Rome2rio offers comprehensive information, suggesting routes, possible stops, and combinations for a customized and well-informed travel experience. Visit https://www.rome2rio.com/ for more details.

    Where to Stay in Brussels, Belgium?

    As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is a sprawling city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own vibe, style, and architecture. Within these neighborhoods, you'll find a plethora of accommodation options, including hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and opportunities for couchsurfing, catering to various preferences and budgets. Ultimately, your choice will depend on factors such as your budget, preferred activities, and desired location. To assist you in navigating the city, here are some key neighborhoods to consider:

    City Center: This medieval area is home to the iconic Grand Place and serves as the focal point for tourists, boasting many major attractions nearby. However, due to its central location, accommodation prices here tend to be higher.

    The Marolles: Ideal for budget travelers or those seeking a more authentic local experience.

    Saint Gery: A vibrant hub known for its lively nightlife, offering a plethora of bars, pubs, and clubs.

    Saint Gilles: Characterized by its youthful and trendy atmosphere, this bohemian neighborhood is popular among the city's younger population.

    Ixelles: Situated slightly outside the city center but well-connected by public transport, Ixelles offers a quieter, greener, and more artistic side of Brussels. It's particularly suitable for families or those seeking respite from the urban hustle and bustle.

    During my visit to Brussels, I opted to stay in a hostel located a 20-minute walk from the city center. While this provided a budget-friendly option, it was nearing an area that locals had flagged as potentially unsafe, especially for solo female travelers after dark. It's advisable to inquire about the general safety of the neighborhood upon arrival, as insights from locals may reveal nuances not commonly known among travel bloggers.

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    Guides to Belgium

    Best Places to Visit in Belgium

    Authentic Belgian Souvenirs

    Getting Around Brussels, Belgium

    Car

    Whether you’re renting a car in Brussels or bringing your own, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the city’s driving rules in advance. Brussels operates as a “30 city,” meaning the speed limit is 30 km/h on most roads, except for specific major roads where it may vary. Moreover, the entire capital is a low-emission zone, requiring all cars with foreign license plates to be registered in advance before entering the city.

    Metro/Tram/Bus

    Public transportation operates from 6 AM to midnight every day of the week. Schedules can be found at stops, inside stations, or on Google Maps. For short-term visitors, buses, trams, or the metro can be conveniently accessed using tap-and-pay or Apple Pay. Longer-term visitors may benefit from purchasing a MOBIB card, offering multiple trips for one price.

    Waterbus

    From May 1st to October 31st, public transport via the canal connects Brussels, Van Praet, and Vilvoorde. Waterbus terminals are well-integrated with other public transport options. Enjoy picturesque views of Brussels from the water while commuting.

    Taxi

    While public transportation is efficient, sometimes a taxi is more convenient. Lyft and Uber operate in Brussels, alongside traditional local cab companies. Reserving a cab in advance is advisable for cheaper fares. Ensure the meter is on and the price is confirmed before starting the ride. Note that a taxi from the airport to the city center typically costs around 50 euros.

    Bike/Scooter

    Explore Brussels at your own pace by renting bikes from Villo!, with stations located throughout the city. Scooters are also available for rent through various apps linked to credit cards. Companies such as Lime, Dott, Tier, Bolt, Voi, Poppy, Pony, Gliize, and Bodaz offer scooter rental services, with scooters scattered across the city.

    Walking

    Brussels is highly walkable, featuring well-lit sidewalks and numerous pedestrian zones. Whether it's early morning or late evening, many people are seen running or walking, especially as the city transitions into its vibrant nightlife scene. Major tourist attractions are conveniently clustered near each other, making it easy to explore Grand Place and other nearby destinations on foot.

    What to Do in Brussels, Belgium?

    Historical Walking Tour

    This is one of the first things that I do whenever I arrive in a new city because it's a great way to orient yourself, learn about where you’re visiting, meet new people, and gain local insights. Additionally, no matter how long you’re visiting Brussels, the walking tours tend to hit most of the major sites that are on a tourist’s list. While there are many tours available offered by many different companies, I highly recommend opting for a free walking tour. These tours (click here) are tip-based, which means that you set the price at the end with your cash tip.

    Pis Statues

    Everyone focuses on Mannekin Pis, which is the main statue in Brussels, but did you know that there are two more pissing statues in the city? While the story of Mannekin Pis is interesting, as well as the many costumes that he wears throughout the year, consider visiting Het Zinneke, the pissing dog, and Jeanneke Pis, the pissing girl.

    Grand Place

    As the heart of Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Grand Place holds historical significance. Originally a 12th-century market square, it underwent destruction by Louis XIV's troops in 1695. Subsequently rebuilt and renovated in the 19th century, it stands today as an architectural masterpiece, bustling with museums, shops, cafes, and restaurants.

    Comic Strip Murals

    Brussels was the birthplace of many famous comics such as Tintin and The Smurfs. To honor this piece of Belgian culture, comic murals were added around the city, making the city like a comic book itself. Embark on a comic mural guided tour or do your own DIY version with these trail links here.

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    Atomium

    A site that itself is a sculpture. The Atomium was designed for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958 and it represents an iron unit cell (9 iron atoms) magnified 165 billion times. The outside architecture has become a symbol or both Belgium and Brussels and the inside is a combination of a museum and a unique light show. From inside, you can also take in aerial views of Brussels. I highly recommend getting to the Atomium early within the first two hours of its opening, otherwise, the place is swamped with crowds.

    Brussels Musical Instrument Museum

    Belgium is home to the creator of the saxophone. Even if you’re not a huge fan of musical instruments, the building that houses the museum has stunning architecture and a fabulous rooftop that isn’t swamped with tourists. Inside, you will learn about the evolution of musical instruments and trace their history through interactive exhibits.

    Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

    One of the oldest churches in Brussels. While this cathedral was complete in 1519, after being in construction for 300 years, there was a chapel dedicated to St. Michael in this location since the 9th century. Similar to Notre Dame, the cathedral’s two towers are built in the French Gothic style. Inside are stunning columns and Gothic and Baroque chapels with beautiful stained glass windows.

    Comics Art Museum

    Learn about the history and evolution of comics and their roots in Belgium. The museum consists of a collection of permanent exhibits and a few temporary exhibits that change periodically in order to bring new content to visitors. Don’t forget to stop at the reading room to check out the collection of classic comics translated into over 40 languages.

    Musée-René Magritte

    For the art lovers, visit The René Magritte Museum which is located in the house where the painter lived and worked for twenty-four years from 1930-1954. Today, it is the headquarters of the Belgian surrealists who meet there every week and organize events. Immerse yourself in surrealism and discover the works of this renowned Belgian artist.

    The Bois de la Cambre

    Escape the city bustle and immerse yourself in nature at one of Brussels's largest parks. Legend has it that a group of lost hikers discovered this verdant oasis guided by a mysterious captain. Enjoy outdoor activities or dine at one of the park's restaurants amidst lush greenery.

    Brussels is an enriching journey filled with historical landmarks, cultural treasures, and culinary delights. From the majestic Grand Place to the whimsical comic strip murals, each attraction offers a unique glimpse into the city's vibrant tapestry. Whether you're strolling through medieval streets, marveling at iconic statues, or immersing yourself in world-class museums, Brussels captivates visitors with its charm and diversity. With this comprehensive travel guide to Brussels, you're equipped to embark on an unforgettable adventure, discovering the essence of this dynamic capital at every turn.

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    Travel Tip

    Catch a glimpse of Mannekin Pis in one of his many outfits! Visit GardeRobe Mannekin Pis’s website for the complete dressing calendar.

    My Playlist for Brussels, Belgium

    "Formidable" by Stromae

    "Ne Me Quitte Pas" by Jacques Brel

    "Alors on danse" by Stromae

    "Quand C'est?" by Stromae

    "J'te l'dis quand même" by Patrick Bruel

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Explore the wide range of gifts this big country has. Find the perfect keepsake to remember your trip. 10 Must-Have Canadian Souvenirs Canada has a fantastic range of souvenirs that mix culture, nature, and art. You can find items like the maple leaf, a well-known symbol of Canada. If you love tasty drinks, try the ice wine from Niagara Falls. There are also handmade art pieces from First Nations artists and bright sports gear that showcase Canada's rich heritage. These souvenirs are not just simple gifts; they hold special meaning for your time in Canada. Let’s look at ten must-have items to remember your amazing trip. 1. Maple Syrup Maple syrup is the perfect souvenir from Canada. It often comes in bottles shaped like a vibrant maple leaf. Canada is known around the world for having the best quality maple syrup. It is especially produced in Quebec. This sweet treat is not only well-known but also very useful. You can use it on pancakes, desserts, and even in drinks. 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Always check for labels to confirm the items are made in Canada, ideally from Indigenous communities or craft markets in Quebec. From colorful Every Child Matters shirts to beautiful jewelry, each piece has a story. They honor the creative talents of Canada’s Indigenous people. These lovely gifts are perfect to keep or give to loved ones, celebrating the diversity and spirit of Canadian culture. 4. Ice Wine Ice wine is a special Canadian treat loved for its sweet taste. It is made in cold weather using grapes that freeze on the vine. Niagara Falls is the main place in Canada where they make ice wine. This drink shows how skilled Canadian winemakers are. You can find ice wine in LCBO stores and specialty shops across the country. If you like its rich flavor or want to share it as a gift, you can visit the Ice Wine Festival held every January in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Don’t like dessert wine? 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In Toronto, the Distillery District has unique boutiques where handmade items show the rich culture of the area. Vancouver's Granville Island showcases local artists and has everything from beautiful jewelry to impressive indigenous art. In Quebec City, cute shops display traditional crafts, including tasty jams made with local fruits like blueberries and cranberries. If you are in Ottawa, the ByWard Market is the best spot to find famous Canadian items, like cool hockey jerseys and more. Online Canadian Gift Stores Exploring online Canadian gift stores gives you many unique items. These websites often show handcrafted goods made by local artisans. They represent the rich culture of Canada. You can find collectibles like hockey jerseys and pure maple syrup with just a few clicks. Shopping online also helps small businesses. Many of these stores offer products from different regions, like jams from Nova Scotia or Inuit carvings from the Northern Territories. This makes it easy to take home a piece of Canada. You can enjoy browsing from your couch or while traveling abroad. It is a great way to fulfill gifting needs for friends and family. Iconic Canadian Souvenirs by Region Regional features give Canadian souvenirs a special charm. The East Coast is known for its tasty seafood sauces and jams. Quebec shares the beautiful culture of French-Canadian music through music CDs. The Prairie Provinces focus on crafts from wheat and grain, honoring Canada's farming spirit. When you go west, you find native artwork and jewelry that show First Nations traditions. In the Northern Territories, you can see detailed Inuit soapstone carvings, which are real examples of native craftsmanship. These items not only show local culture but also help us connect to the rich history of Canada. East Coast: Seafood Sauces and Jams Exploring the food scene in Canada’s East Coast shows many seafood sauces and jams that highlight the local flavors. Known for its rich sea cooking, these tasty options often use special ingredients like wild blueberries and cranberries found right in the area. In small shops throughout Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, you can find handmade seafood sauces. These sauces go well with fresh seafood. Jams made from local fruits bring a sense of history, taking you back to the beautiful shores and rolling waves. They make your visit to Eastern Canada even more special and memorable. Quebec: French-Canadian Music CDs Exploring the music of Quebec is a fun way to take a piece of the province home. French-Canadian music CDs show different styles, from old folk songs to modern hits. Artists like La Bottine Souriante and Les Charbonniers de l'Enfer create lively sounds. Their music tells stories about the region’s culture and history, reflecting the rhythms of the St. Lawrence River. Looking for these special collections in local shops or at festivals makes your experience even better. Each note played will remind you of your Canadian adventure. Prairie Provinces: Wheat and Grain Crafts Exploring the Prairie provinces shows many unique crafts that celebrate Canada’s agricultural heart. Local artisans make beautiful pieces from wheat and grains. They transform these materials into decorative items, jewelry, and home goods. Their craftsmanship shows great respect for the land. Often, they use traditional techniques passed down through generations. Things like wheat weavings represent cultural identity and tell stories about life on the prairie. When visitors discover these crafts in local markets, they can bring home a piece of Canada’s heritage and natural beauty. West Coast: Native Artwork and Jewelry Exploring the art scene in Western Canada shows a rich variety of indigenous craftsmanship. From detailed totem poles to beautifully made jewelry, each piece shares a story full of cultural meaning. Cities like Vancouver and Victoria have galleries where you can see the work of First Nations creators. Authentic native artwork often uses traditional materials, showing the spirit of the land. Jewelry pieces with silver and local stones show a strong bond with the earth. Bringing back a unique item from the West Coast not only helps local artisans but also shares a piece of Canada’s heritage. Northern Territories: Inuit Soapstone Carvings The northern territories of Canada have a special collection of Inuit soapstone carvings. These carvings show the rich art and heritage of the indigenous people. The pieces often include wildlife like the moose and the beaver. They represent the deep bond that the Inuit share with nature. Each carving is not just a beautiful item; it tells a story of cultural importance. Whether you visit Yellowknife or Iqaluit, these soapstone art pieces remind us of Canada's amazing craftsmanship. They beautifully reflect the spirit of the land. Celebrating Canada Through Local Crafts Craftsmanship in Canada is flourishing. Artisans tap into the country’s rich history. Each piece of craft tells a story from different cultures. You can see this in the detailed beadwork made by Indigenous peoples and in the delightful handicrafts from Nova Scotia's beautiful coast. Visiting local craft fairs or markets lets you connect with the lively community and discover unique treasures. You can support local talents and find handmade items that reflect their regions, like wooden carvings or traditional textiles. These crafts help keep heritage alive and celebrate the skill of people from Canada’s provinces. Introduction to Canadian Craftsmanship Craftsmanship in Canada shows its rich heritage and diversity. It combines ideas from First Nations, European settlers, and modern artists. Each item has a story, like a hand-carved Inuit soapstone sculpture or beautiful beadwork from indigenous traditions. The crafts often include symbols like the maple leaf or wildlife, making them even more appealing. Local artisans in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver put their creativity into special products. This way, each souvenir holds a part of Canada's cultural background. This craftsmanship helps the economy and also shares the spirit of the nation. Popular Craft Fairs and Markets Canada has a lot of colorful craft fairs and markets that show its rich culture. Events like the Toronto Signatures Show and Vancouver's Artisan Marketplace offer handmade items from local artists. You can find everything from beautiful jewelry to fine woodwork. Quebec's outdoor markets often highlight traditional crafts made by Indigenous people, showing the country’s diverse culture. Visitors can check out unique items and meet the artists, making these events great for finding real souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively, letting everyone feel the creativity and stories that represent Canada’s artistic spirit. Practical Souvenirs from Canada Travelers looking for practical souvenirs from Canada have many great choices that mix usefulness with a sense of national pride. You can grab durable Canadian weather gear. This gear is great for handling the various climates in the country. Another option is eco-friendly reusable items that show Canada’s commitment to sustainability. Insulated mugs with the classic maple leaf design and strong totes featuring local art can be taken home. These items make everyday life better and remind people of their trips. From Vancouver to Quebec City, these nice souvenirs last and capture the spirit of Canada. They are perfect for any suitcase. Canadian Weather Gear Canada has a diverse climate, so you need reliable weather gear that mixes style and function. If you are getting ready for the cold in Quebec or the rainy days in British Columbia, durable outerwear like down jackets and waterproof boots will keep you warm and dry. Accessories like cozy beanies and thermal gloves add extra warmth. This way, you can stay comfortable no matter the season. The well-known Canadian flannel shirts show both function and the country’s craftsmanship. Pack your suitcase with these must-haves to deal with Canada’s various weather, making your travel smooth and fun. Eco-Friendly Reusable Items Sustainable gifts are wonderful Canadian souvenirs. They mix function and care for the environment. Reusable shopping bags with designs like the maple leaf or beaver are a must for eco-friendly travelers. Think about getting a stainless steel water bottle. It is useful and shows off the beautiful scenes from British Columbia to Newfoundland. For those who love coffee, a travel mug made in Canada with creative designs shows respect for local craft. These eco-friendly gifts help cut down on waste. They also make special keepsakes that capture the spirit of Canada and support a greener way of living. Edible Souvenirs to Relish Exploring Canada’s food offers a tasty way to remember your visit. Pure maple syrup is a must-try. It's often called liquid gold and makes pancakes amazing. It also improves many recipes. In Nova Scotia, famous seafood sauces and traditional jams made with blueberries and cranberries show off the area’s great harvests. You can enjoy rich ice wine from Ontario's vineyards, gourmet cheeses, and local meat treats. Each bite shares a story about the land and its people. These tasty gifts do more than please your palate; they connect you to your experiences in this gorgeous country. Sweets and Snacks Unique to Canada Canada has many tasty sweets and snacks that reflect its diverse culture and flavors. Trying pure maple syrup is a must. People often drizzle it on pancakes or use it in candies. This is a key experience for any visitor. Butter tarts are another popular treat, known for their gooey filling and flaky crust, giving a sweet taste of tradition. Nanaimo bars, a delicious dessert from British Columbia, and kettle corn, enjoyed at festivals, are also favorites. Tasting these treats will remind you of Canada. They make great souvenirs to remember your trip. Local Cheese and Meat Delicacies Enjoying local cheese and meat lets you experience Canada’s rich food culture. Quebec is famous for its amazing artisanal cheeses. They make delicious options like creamy blue cheese and strong cheddars, using local ingredients. You can also find meats such as wild game and smoked salmon, showing the great food from both the land and ocean. Plus, famous items like Quebec's tourtière or Alberta’s beef jerky make great souvenirs. They truly represent the variety of Canadian flavors. Every bite reminds you of your travels and Canadian heritage. Souvenirs for Kids A treasure of fun items is ready for kids who want to take home a piece of Canada. Plush toys that look like famous animals, like the moose and beaver, make soft friends that show the spirit of nature. There are also fun puzzles shaped like the maple leaf or showing the beautiful places in British Columbia. These can keep young minds busy and become special reminders of their time in Canada. Each item shows the beauty of Canadian culture and sparks creative play. These souvenirs don't just connect kids to Canada; they also help share stories of adventure with family and friends at home. Canadian Wildlife Plush Toys Soft and cuddly, Canadian wildlife plush toys are great keepsakes for both kids and grown-ups. These plush friends show off the different animals of Canada, like the majestic moose and the playful beaver. They create a lovely view of the country’s wildlife. You can often find these toys in gift shops, markets, and grocery stores. They not only remind you of the great outdoors but also bring comfort and joy. Sometimes, you will find educational tags with facts about Canada's wildlife. This adds a fun learning experience to the mix. Fun Maple Leaf Shaped Puzzles Maple leaf-shaped puzzles are fun and exciting souvenirs. They are great for kids and collectors. These puzzles show a symbol of Canada. They also provide a fun way to learn. Everyone can enjoy putting them together. Each puzzle is colorful and shows Canada’s beauty. You will see designs with moose and maple syrup. You can find these puzzles in many shops in big cities. They offer a fun experience that you won’t forget. Taking home a piece of Canada's charm is easy with these charming puzzles. Conclusion Authentic Canadian souvenirs are special reminders of your experiences in this wide and varied country. You can find unique items from the busy markets of Quebec City to the breathtaking views of Western Canada. Each souvenir tells a story that you can share. This could be a handmade Indigenous piece or a jar of pure maple syrup, both representing Canada’s rich culture and history. Choose souvenirs that connect with your personal memories. This will help keep the spirit of Canada alive even after you unpack your suitcase. Celebrate these unique treasures that show what Canadian life is all about. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Most Popular Souvenir From Canada? The most popular souvenir from Canada is maple syrup. It's known for its rich taste and many uses. Visitors usually bring back bottles of this sweet treat. It captures the heart of Canadian culture and serves as a cherished memory of their trip. Can I Find Authentic Indigenous Crafts Easily? Yes, you can find real Indigenous crafts in many local markets and cultural centers in Canada. These places usually have true pieces created by Indigenous artists. Also, there are online platforms that focus on Indigenous goods. They provide a large variety, making it easy for everyone to access them. Are There Eco-Friendly Canadian Souvenirs? Yes, Canada has many eco-friendly souvenirs. You can find reusable shopping bags, bamboo utensils, and organic cotton clothes. Many local artists make products using sustainable materials or practices. This lets visitors support the environment and take home a piece of Canadian craft. Check out markets for these special items! What Are Some Uniquely Canadian Flavors to Bring Home? To enjoy some special Canadian flavors, think about getting maple syrup, butter tarts, and Nanaimo bars. You should also try unique jams made from local berries like blueberries and saskatoons. These sweets show off Canada's rich food culture and make great gifts for family and friends; canadian souvenirs

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    cenic landscape of Canada featuring majestic mountains, lush forests, and a pristine lake under a clear blue sky – highlighting the natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities across Canadian national parks and travel destinations; cenic landscape of Canada featuring majestic mountains, lush forests, and a pristine lake under a clear blue sky – highlighting the natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities across Canadian national parks and travel destination; best places to visit in Canada

    Best Places to Visit in Canada: Top 10 for Travelers

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