Brussels-Capital Region

In a city as brazenly grand as Brussels, with its showstopping Grand Place and flash chocolate shops, it’s refreshing to know that some of the best experiences cost nothing at all. An eye-popping trot along the Comic Strip Trail, free samples of Belgian chocolate, flea market finds, Instagrammable sunset viewpoints, and days dedicated to art are available for very few euros—or none at all.

Brussels is Europe’s beating bureaucratic heart, but beyond the stiff shirts and secondary legislation, the Belgian capital is a heady mix of strong beer, artistic expression, and medieval architecture. Moreover, it’s a geographical boon with fairytale castles, cool cities, and cross-border curios all within easy reach. Here are the best day trips from Brussels.

From convivial Christmas markets in winter to colorful blossoms come spring, Brussels transforms with each season. While many locals celebrate the arrival of the warm summer months, when beer gardens thrive and the streets buzz with life, visiting outside of peak season has its distinct advantages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best times to experience Brussels.

Like Belgium, Brussels has many faces, most of which are underappreciated. Many tourists flit into Brussels for a quick photo of a famous statue and perhaps a stop at a chocolate shop. However, if you stay in Brussels for more than a moment, you’ll uncover a rich metropolis where street art dominates cityscapes, Art Nouveau plays with façades, and proud locals effortlessly switch between languages.

With sun comes Belgians. Belgians are masters at making the most of pretty days – a necessity in the oft-rainy lowlands – and it shows in their capital’s countless parks. When the weather is good, there’s no better way to explore Brussels than to do as locals do and seek out a sunny spot of green. The experience is cultural and enriching, revealing hidden palace gardens and abbeys in urban forests. Here are the 9 best parks in Brussels you shouldn’t miss.

Even before taking a sip, the figures are staggering: in a country of 11 million inhabitants, there are more than 260 breweries in Belgium, conjuring and concocting anywhere between 500 and 2000 different beers at any time.

Brussels may not scream Speedos and sunscreen, but when the big ball in the sky is ablaze, the Belgian capital has plenty of refreshing places to cool off. From sun-drenched terraces and rooftop parties to pop-up al fresco food events, here’s how you can enjoy the sunshine in Brussels.

Visiting Brussels is an exciting adventure filled with stunning architecture, rich history, and some of the world’s best beer. With countless museums, city squares, and striking buildings, enjoying a stay in Brussels is effortless. The gastronomic scene of Belgium’s capital is renowned for fries, chocolates, and delicious waffles. Whether your idea of a good time is a historic tour or indulging in delicious Belgian food, Brussels won’t disappoint.