While it is easy to cover the main sights of Brussels in a day or less, we highly recommend slowing down and taking time to truly absorb its essence. As the capital city of Belgian, the city holds some fascinating architecture and attractions that you would want to savor.
Tin Tin Art Murals
In tribute to one of the world’s most well-loved comic book series, there are over 14 murals around Brussels that show scenes of Tin Tin and his adventures. He once inspired many people to travel and be open to other cultures that travelers would identify with. Fans of the series should head over to Brussels' Comic Strip Museum to learn more about how the comics were created.
Grand Place
The main tourist site that everyone visits is the Grand Place but this is with good reason. Dating back to the 12th century as a market trading place, the buildings are majestic in their baroque and Gothic architecture with detailed statues and lined in gold.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
In one of the buildings along the square, is also the first glazed shopping arcade in Europe. You will be able to find chocolate shops, jewelers, restaurants, and a theatre. This led to quite a number of famous painters and writers of the time gathering. There is even a plaque to commemorate the Lumiere brothers’ first motion picture in 1896.
Mannekin Pis and family of statues
Just round the corner from the square too, you will find the iconic statue of a boy peeing. The legend from 1452, has it that this little boy peed on a ticking bomb to defuse it and saved the city in the process. It has been stolen and returned many times since it was put up.
The little boy is dressed in many costumes to celebrate many different occasions throughout the year. He even has a museum showcasing all the 900 outfits he has had. To keep him company, the city has also erected statues of a little girl and a dog peeing, giving him a family.
St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral
As most squares of the time would have included churches, it is unique that the Grand Place was so dedicated to business and didn’t have one. So where did the church go? The main catholic of Brussels is on Treurenberg Hill and was initially built to honor St Michael in the 8th century. St Gudula’s relics were added to the church later on, hence the 2 names. It has a truly impressive organ with about 4,300 pipes and 4 keyboards and stained glass windows from 1540.
Parc du Cinquantenaire
Culture buffs will enjoy how all the main museums are found under one arch. The Cinquantenaire park sits just outside the Temple of Human Passions, Royal Museum of the Armed Forces & Military History, the Royal Museums of Art and History, and Autoworld. The park keeps busy throughout the year with many festival celebrations, concerts, and even as the starting point for marathons.
Musical Instrument Museum
When you are done with art, explore the music scene in this museum. Housed in an Art Noveau building that used by an Old England department store, the museum has over 7000 instruments from all over the world to explore. Do note that photography is allowed in galleries without flash and large suitcases will not be permitted. Interested in admiring more Art Noveau buildings? There are many informative tours that will take you to notable buildings and hotels in this architectural style.
Atomium
In line with the 1950s theme, the Atomium was built for the Brussel’s World Fair but became a monument. Half of the spheres can be entered, housing exhibition spaces, and a restaurant. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for entry into the spheres for a great 360 degree of Brussels!
Mini Europe
If you been wanting to travel the world like Tin Tin, you might want to visit Mini Europe and have a tour. Notable and renowned monuments are built in miniature models for you to admire.
