Living in Germany close to the Belgium border for 8 years, I finally took the time to explore Brussels with my little girl.
Honestly, Brussels wasn’t even on my wishlist, I just happened to visit the city for a wedding with my family and then realized it is a fun destination. Before I arrived in Belgium’s capital city, I only knew about Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. That’s it.
Without overplanning or researching, I decided to approach this trip a little differently. I was pleasantly surprised when I spent three days in Brussels with my husband and 5-year-old girl because this city has loads to do.
I also realized that Brussels had a lot of food options for picky eaters (most of the kids are) and it worked well that there were many waffle restaurants everywhere. Also, Brussels has many parks and green spaces with play areas that are perfect for small children.
So is Brussels good to explore with a kid? Yes, and my daughter had a lot of fun here. If you are thinking of visiting Brussels with kids, here’s a guide for you.
Exploring Brussels with Kids: A Family-Friendly Adventure
Brussels, the Belgian capital, is not just a wonderful city for adults but also offers a plethora of activities and attractions for younger children, older kids, and the whole family.
Read my posts about traveling to other iconic cities too with your children:
From chocolate shops to interactive museums, Brussels has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top family-friendly attractions and activities in Brussels, ensuring that your trip is filled with fun and memorable experiences.
Exploring Grand Place: A Must-See in Brussels
Grand Place Brussels with my kid
Your family adventure in Brussels begins at the heart of the city, the magnificent Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Europe’s famous landmarks and boasts some of the most beautiful squares in the world. We visited during Christmas time and my daughter loved the decorations – it was magical!
Grand Place is centrally located in Brussels, making it a convenient starting point for exploring other child-friendly attractions in the city, such as the Atomium, Mini-Europe, or the Belgian Comic Strip Center.
Marvel at the stunning architecture, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and click some memorable family photos.
So what’s child-friendly at the Grand Place? There are chocolate shops and the funny Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis statues. These statues don’t make sense and are weird but your child will laugh.
While Grand Place itself is mostly a cobblestone square surrounded by buildings, it offers ample open space for children to run around and play. It’s a safe environment away from traffic where children can expend their energy.
Manneken Pis statue in Brussels dressed up for Christmas via Unsplash
Depending on the time of year, Grand Place hosts various events and festivals, such as the biennial Flower Carpet event or the Winter Wonders Christmas market. These events often include activities and performances suitable for children, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that can be enjoyable for the whole family.
Mini Europe
If there’s just ONE attraction that you want to visit in Brussels with children, then this is it.
Mini-Europe in Brussels – CC BY 2.0 DEED via Flickr
Take a fascinating journey through Europe’s famous landmarks in miniature form at Mini Europe. It’s a great way to introduce your kids to the continent’s rich cultural heritage. It is a bit like Hamburg’s Miniatur Wunderland but bigger in scale and is open.
Mini-Europe is a miniature park featuring replicas of famous landmarks from all over Europe, including the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Colosseum, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, and the Acropolis. It also features natural sites like Mount Vesuvius.
For children, this offers a unique opportunity to learn about European history, architecture, and culture in an interactive and engaging way instead of just looking. Each miniature is accompanied by information panels, providing educational value while making learning fun.
Children can push buttons to activate trains, boats, and other moving parts within the miniatures, providing them with a hands-on experience that stimulates their curiosity and imagination.
Mini-Europe also includes play areas and attractions specifically designed for children, such as playgrounds and a water play area. These spaces provide opportunities for kids to burn off energy and have fun in between exploring the miniatures.
If you visit Mini Europe, right next to it is the Atomium, an iconic architectural marvel that you should visit with your children when in Brussels. Its unique design, resembling a giant atom, captures children’s imagination and curiosity. Its towering structure provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for exploration and discovery.
Within the Atomium, children can explore interactive exhibits that focus on science, technology, and innovation. These hands-on displays allow children to engage with scientific concepts in a fun and accessible way, sparking their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
The Atomium offers various activities and workshops specifically designed for children, such as guided tours tailored to younger audiences, educational games, and creative art projects. These activities provide opportunities for children to learn while having fun and encourage active participation.
View From One of the Spheres of the Atomium Museum in Brussels
The Atomium’s observation deck provides panoramic views of Brussels and its surroundings from a height of 102 meters (335 feet). Children can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city skyline and landmarks, offering a memorable experience and a unique perspective on their surroundings.
Overall, the Atomium offers a captivating blend of architectural wonder, educational experiences, and family-friendly attractions that make it an ideal destination for children to visit.
Museum of Natural Sciences
Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Museum of Natural Sciences. With interactive displays and temporary exhibitions, it’s an educational yet fun experience for the whole family.
Museum of Natural Sciences Brussels – CC BY 2.0 DEED Via Flickr
The museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits designed to engage children and stimulate their curiosity about the natural world. From hands-on experiments to multimedia displays, children can actively explore and learn about topics such as dinosaurs, evolution, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
One of the highlights for children is the Dinosaur Gallery, which features impressive dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and reconstructions.
This section of the museum is like a Dino museum and allows children to come face-to-face with life-size dinosaur models and learn about these fascinating creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago.
The museum provides Discovery Boxes and workshops specifically tailored to children, offering them the opportunity to touch and examine real specimens such as fossils, minerals, and animal skeletons. These hands-on activities encourage sensory exploration and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts.
In addition to its exhibits, the museum features a planetarium where children can embark on virtual journeys through the cosmos, learn about astronomy, and marvel at the wonders of the universe. The planetarium shows are both educational and visually captivating, making them enjoyable for children of all ages.
Train World
An actual railway bridge as an exhibit in Train World Brussels – CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED via Flickr
All aboard for an adventure at Train World! Discover the history of trains through interactive exhibits and guided tours. It’s a real treat for train enthusiasts of all ages.
Train World showcases the rich history of trains and railways in Belgium. The museum features a diverse collection of locomotives, carriages, and railway artifacts, including vintage steam engines, luxurious royal trains, and modern high-speed trains. Children are often captivated by the impressive size and design of these trains, sparking their curiosity about transportation and engineering.
Train World offers numerous interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage children and make learning about trains fun. For example, there are simulators where kids can experience what it’s like to drive a train, as well as interactive displays that demonstrate the principles of locomotion and mechanics.
What’s even more amazing is that the museum includes dedicated play areas where children can immerse themselves in train-themed activities and games. These play areas often feature model train sets, puzzles, and creative play stations, allowing kids to role-play as train conductors, engineers, or passengers.
Choco-Story (Musee Du Cacao Et Du Chocolat)
Choco-Story Chocolate Factory Belgium via Unsplash
Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the history of chocolate at Choco Story. With interactive tours and delicious tastings, it’s a must-visit for chocolate lovers. It is also known as the Museum Of Cocoa And Chocolate (Musee Du Cacao Et Du Chocolat).
These interactive exhibits engage children in the history and production of chocolate. Kids can learn about the origins of cocoa beans, the chocolate-making process, and the cultural significance of chocolate through hands-on displays and multimedia presentations.
The museum often hosts chocolate-making workshops where children can get creative and make their own chocolate treats under the guidance of skilled chocolatiers. These workshops provide a fun and memorable experience while teaching children about the art of chocolate-making.
Choco-Story offers tasting sessions where children can sample different types of chocolate from around the world. Isn’t that every kid’s dream? It’s a delicious opportunity for kids to explore various flavors and textures while developing their palate and appreciation for chocolate.
LEGO® Discovery Centre
LEGO® Discovery Centre – CC BY 2.0 DEED via Flickr
There are many LEGO® Discovery Centres all over the world and you can visit one in Brussels with your children on a rainy day.
At the LEGO® Discovery Centre, children have the opportunity to engage in hands-on building activities, allowing them to unleash their creativity and build whatever their imagination desires.
Through LEGO® building activities, children can learn about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in a fun and interactive way. They can experiment with principles of physics, engineering, and problem-solving as they construct various structures.
The Discovery Centre typically features interactive exhibits and displays that engage children in learning through play. These exhibits may include LEGO® models of famous landmarks, interactive games, and immersive experiences that captivate children’s interest and curiosity.
The Brussels Comic Strip Route is a series of murals and street art installations scattered throughout the city of Brussels, depicting characters from famous Belgian comic strips.
I don’t recommend this for younger children however, Older Children will be enthralled by the larger-than-life images of characters like Tintin, Asterix, and the Smurfs, sparking their imagination and creativity.
The Comic Strip Route encourages interaction with the artwork, inviting children to explore and discover the hidden details within each mural. Some installations even include interactive elements, such as sound effects or augmented reality features, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.
Comic Characters Street art in Brussels
Exploring the Comic Strip Route allows children to discover different neighborhoods and landmarks in Brussels while enjoying the fresh air and exercise. It’s a fun and interactive way to experience the city’s streetscape and architecture, with each mural serving as a unique backdrop for family photos and memories.
The Comic Strip Route is free to access and open to everyone, making it a budget-friendly activity for families visiting Brussels. The murals are located throughout the city, making it easy to incorporate into a day of sightseeing or exploration.
Spend a leisurely day at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels’ largest public park. With green spaces, interactive games, and a wave pool, it’s the perfect place for outdoor fun.
Parc du Cinquantenaire offers a large, open green space where children can run, play, and enjoy outdoor activities. The park provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing families to relax and unwind in a tranquil environment.
The park features playgrounds equipped with slides, swings, climbing structures, and other play equipment suitable for children of all ages. These playgrounds provide opportunities for kids to expend energy, socialize with other children, and engage in imaginative play.
The park is home to iconic historical landmarks, including the Triumphal Arch and the Great Mosque of Brussels. Older children can learn about the history and significance of these landmarks through guided tours or self-guided exploration.
The park provides designated picnic areas where families can enjoy a leisurely meal together amidst beautiful surroundings. Packing a picnic and spending time outdoors is a budget-friendly way to enjoy quality time as a family.
Family-Friendly Dining in Brussels
After a day of exploration, refuel at one of Brussels’ family-friendly restaurants. Sample delicious Belgian cuisine, including waffles, chocolate, and hearty dishes that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Based on my experience, I recommend three places to you:
Waffle Factory
Eating a waffle in Brussels
Waffle Factory is a children-friendly fast food type chain restaurant in Brussels where we enjoyed our lunch. They have so many kinds of waffles here and loads of different toppings or fillings. Here you can order waffles that are not just sweet but also salty.
Ballekes
Ballekes is a nice casual restaurant that’s perfect for quick bites. In my experience, such kinds of places are easier to visit with small children.
You can find things like meatballs, fries, salad, and loads of vegan options too. You will also find a nice selection of beer here.
Ricotta & Parmesan
As the name suggests, this is an Italian restaurant where your children will be very happy to eat a pizza while you sit in a place that’s just a bit casual still not too much so that you can have a somewhat elegant dining experience.
Public Transportation in Brussels
Train Journey in Brussels with my child
Getting around Brussels with kids is a breeze thanks to its excellent public transportation system. With trains, trams, and buses serving the city center and beyond, you can easily access all the top attractions without the hassle of driving.
It is cheaper to purchase a Brussels Card for free entry to numerous museums and unlimited public transportation. But even if you don’t, you can use your credit card or debit card on the machines inside the trams or buses.
There are also app-based Electric scooters and bikes from Bolt or Tier to travel within the city, but they won’t be so convenient to ride with a small child.
Top Tips for Visiting Brussels with Kids
Plan your visit to popular attractions early in the day to avoid long lines.
Take advantage of rainy-day options such as the Museum of Cocoa (Choco-Story) or the Museum of Musical Instruments where there are interactive exhibits.
Consider purchasing a Brussels Card that includes free entry to museums and discounts on attractions.
Brussels is a big city but there are lots of green spaces with play areas. Use them.
Where to Stay in Brussels with Kids
Living Home Brussels – apartment stay
When I visited Brussels with my 5-year-old, I had booked an entire apartment. It is called Living Home Brussels and is located in Schaerbeek.
For us, the location was convenient because this apartment was right next to the Princess Elisabeth tram station. Schaerbeek isn’t in the Brussels city center but is only an 8-minute tram ride away.
I have to tell you that the shower cubicle was inside the bedroom but was completely see-through. So weird right? Everything else was ok about this accommodation.
Looking for a hotel in Brussels city center, then I recommend you check out this pretty yet affordable place called “Motel One”.
Due to its amazing location, decent price, and lovely rooms, the rooms at Motel One sell out pretty fast, so if you are heading to Brussels then you might want to book a room here as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Brussels is an ideal destination for a family holiday, offering a perfect blend of fun activities, educational experiences, and delicious treats. Whether you’re exploring the city center, enjoying the green spaces of Parc de Bruxelles, or delving into the world of chocolate, you’re sure to have a great time with your whole family. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Brussels!
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Discovering Brussels: Unveiling the Allure of Belgium’s Capital
You may not know this but I live just 4 hours drive away from Brussels. It took me seven years of living in Germany and I finally decided to visit this Belgian capital. I had no idea what this city was like, except I knew of just Belgian chocolate, Belgian Waffles, and Belgian beer.
I mean, when we talk about the beauty of iconic European cities, people mention Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, or Rome – but hardly anyone ever mentions Brussels, right? So, is Brussels worth visiting? Let me introduce the city and I will talk about it from a traveler’s perspective based on my experience.
Introducing Brussels
A Pretty Street in Brussels
Nestled at the heart of Europe, Brussels, Belgium’s capital, is a city that effortlessly blends rich history, modernity, and cultural diversity. After all, it’s also considered the capital of the EU. Yes, the European Commission, the European Council, the Council of the European Union, and the European Parliament are all headquartered in Brussels.
Brussels is a city of many different languages with a multi-lingual population. French and Flemish Dutch are the official languages and of course, people speak English too.
If you look at the map, you will notice that Belgium is surrounded by the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Luxembourg on the sides and one part faces the North Sea. That’s also one of the reasons why Belgium has a multicultural population. The city is called “Bruxelles” in French and “Brussel” in Dutch.
1) Brussels’ Iconic Square – Grand Place
Yes, all European capitals and even not-so-iconic cities have beautiful town squares, but the one in Brussels is often considered to be the grandest of them all. Brussels’ city center is called the Grand Place.
Brussels Town Hall at Grand-Place – the iconic center via Unsplash
Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the central square of Brussels, the Grand Place, or Grote Markt, stands as a testament to the city’s medieval grandeur. Surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi), this square is a mesmerizing blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture.
Dominating one side of the square is the Brussels Town Hall. This Gothic masterpiece dates back to the 15th century and features a 96-meter tall tower with a statue of Saint Michael, the city’s patron saint, perched at the top. You will see the spire of Brussels town hall from some of the nearby streets as a nice backdrop.
Visitors can explore the interior of the Town Hall and marvel at its opulent rooms, including the Gothic Room and the Maximilian Hall.
Brussels Main Square – Grand-Place
The ornate facades of the guildhalls, adorned with gold leaf and intricate sculptures, create a visual spectacle. Each guildhall has its own unique design, representing the prosperity and craftsmanship of the various guilds that once dominated Brussels.
Opposite the Town Hall stands Maison du Roi or the King’s House, also known as the Breadhouse (Broodhuis in Dutch). The building’s facade is an outstanding example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Today, the King’s House houses the Brussels City Museum, where visitors can delve into the city’s history through various exhibits and artifacts.
Maison du Roi in Grand Place with a Christmas tree on a December Afternoon
Both Brussels City Museum (Maison du Roi) and Brussels Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville de Bruxelles) are the two most striking buildings and they look like they are competing against each other because they are on opposite sides of the square.
The Grand Place is not just a picturesque square; it’s the beating heart of Brussels, hosting vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. It takes on a magical aura in the evening when the buildings are beautifully illuminated. The play of light accentuates the architectural details, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.
Honestly, if you do nothing in Brussels but just explore the Grand Place, you will be fully satisfied for your first visit.
Brussels is somewhat weird. Weird doesn’t mean bad but is usually funny. Let’s talk about the Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis statues.
Manneken Pis statue in Brussels dressed up for Christmas via Unsplash
The Manneken Pis statue isn’t big but is funny. It is near the Grand Place, the 55 cm Manneken Pis statue captures the whimsical spirit of Brussels. It is just a statue of a child peeing in a pool and represents the “irreverent spirit” of Brussels.
This diminutive bronze sculpture has become a beloved symbol of the city, with its wardrobe changed regularly in homage to various themes and occasions.
There are many funny stories about the origin of the Manneken Pis statue and for me, the best one is that a man lost his son and he declared that when he finds him, he will donate a statue of him to the city doing whatever the kid was doing at that time.
Jeanneke Pis bronze statue in Brussels via Unsplash
Jeanneke Pis is also a pissing statue but is newer and was made as a counterpoint for Manneken Pis. It is a 50 cm bronze statue of a little girl with pigtails peeing in a pool. Brussels, how weird are you?
The locals toss coins into the basin of Jeanneke Pis that get collected by a non-profit organization called Horizon-Espoir ASBL.
Mont des Arts, or the “Hill of the Arts,” is a cultural and artistic complex located in the heart of Brussels, Belgium.
It is situated between the historic town center and the uptown neighborhoods of Brussels, offering stunning views of the city. The Mont des Arts is not only a beautiful green space but also a hub for museums, exhibitions, and cultural activities.
One of the highlights of Mont des Arts is the panoramic view it offers of Brussels. Visitors can climb the stairs to the elevated platform and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the cityscape, including the iconic Atomium in the distance.
The view from Mont des Arts in Brussels via Unsplash
The Mont des Arts is home to the Royal Library of Belgium, a significant cultural institution. The library houses an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and documents, making it a valuable resource for researchers and scholars. The library building itself is an architectural masterpiece.
Apart from the library, the Mont des Arts is known for its well-maintained gardens and green spaces. Visitors can stroll through the landscaped lawns, and flower beds, and enjoy a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life. The gardens provide a scenic setting for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
4) Belgian Waffles, Chocolate, and Beer
Eating a waffle in Brussels
No visit to Brussels is complete without indulging in its world-famous Belgian waffles. From street vendors to quaint cafes, the aroma of freshly baked waffles wafts through the city streets, inviting you to savor this delightful treat.
What I like about the Belgian waffles is that they are light and airy, yet crispy. The ones that I’m used to eating in Germany feel more cake-ish.
If you don’t have a sweet tooth, you can also try the savory waffles that are with cheese, kind of like sandwiches. My husband ordered one with cheese, chicken, and chili and it was yummy. Mine was with dark chocolate and my daughter had a plain one. I found mine to be the tastiest.
La Belgique Gourmande chocolatier in Brussels via Unsplash
If you are a chocoholic, then you would love Belgian Chocolate. Brussels is a chocolate paradise with dozens of shops scattered across the city.
For a full-on immersive experience, consider visiting a chocolate factory or doing a chocolate-making workshop. Here are two that I recommend:
To find the best chocolatier in Brussels, you don’t have to go out of your way because when you visit Grand-Place, you will see some chocolate shops right there. Check out:
Elisabeth Chocolatier near Manneken Pis statue,
Neuhaus Chocolates Bruxelles Grand Place,
La Belgique Gourmande, and
Chocolate Mary.
Of course, the world-famous Godiva Chocolatier is also here at Grand-Place but why eat something that you will anyway find all over the world? (My first taste of Godiva was in the USA). Discover the artistry of Belgian chocolatiers and treat your taste buds to exquisite pralines.
Brussels has an amazing beer scene – Belgian Beer via Unsplash
Enough about chocolates, let’s talk about the famous Belgium beer. I particularly enjoy the brown ales and Flemish red ales.
If you’d like an extraordinary beer experience, then I recommend you book a 2.5-hour-long beer-tasting experience. It is actually a very nice way for solo travelers to meet a group of people and enjoy the nightlife in Brussels because beer is the perfect icebreaker, and you can continue drinking together after the beer-tasting session ends.
Here are some places where you could possibly find the best beer in Brussels:
La Porte Noire,
Little Delirium,
Brussels Beer Project,
Moeder Lambic Fontainas, and
Beer Capital Brussels.
Try an array of Belgian beers, each with its unique flavor profile, in a beer hall or a bar to discover the one that you love the most.
5) Brussels has Interesting Landmarks
Palais Royal, the Royal Palace of Brussels Brussels via Unsplash
Brussels is a treasure trove of Art Nouveau architecture, with buildings like Victor Horta’s Hôtel Tassel and Hôtel Solvay showcasing the city’s architectural prowess. Take a walking tour through the neighborhoods of Ixelles and Saint-Gilles to immerse yourself in this artistic movement.
Many historical buildings in Brussels were destroyed when it became the capital city of a new country in the 19th century. This was done to make way for new buildings that were built between 1880 and 1980.
Palais Royal or Royal Palace of Brussels is a stunning building. Marvel at the neoclassical splendor of the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Belgian monarch. While the interior is only open to the public during some summer days, the exterior and surrounding park are worth a visit.
Saint Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Place Sainte-Gudule, Brussels, Belgium via Unsplash
St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral. It is named after the patron saints of Brussels and dates back to the 11th century. The intricate stained glass windows, detailed sculptures, and imposing spires contribute to the cathedral’s architectural significance.
Brussels also has its own arch – the Cinquantenaire Arch. It is a triumphal arch built to commemorate Belgium’s 50th anniversary of independence. Situated in Cinquantenaire Park, the arch is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and features a central arch flanked by colonnades and sculptures.
European Parliament building is worth a visit too. Brussels serves as the de facto capital of the European Union, hosting the European Parliament. Take a guided tour to gain insights into the workings of this vital institution shaping the future of Europe.
Congress Column in Brussels
Another notable landmark in Brussels is the Congress Column or Colonne du Congrès. It is a 47-meter column that was built from 1850 to 1859. It was created to commemorate the 1830 National Congress that created Belgium’s first constitution.
How can I not mention Atomium, a futuristic structure in Brussels? It is an iconic landmark representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.
Atomium in Heysel Park symbolizes Belgium’s post-war industrial prowess and is an unmissable stop on your Brussels itinerary. It offers panoramic views of the city from its spheres and houses intriguing exhibitions about its history.
Believe it or not, Brussels is the comic strip capital of the world. Walk around here and you will see many murals and graffiti featuring comic heroes. My favorite comic “Tintin” originated in Belgium’s weekly “Le Petit Vingtième”.
Surprisingly enough, I saw a place right next to my lunch restaurant which was just just dedicated to comic exchange and tradeoffs. I felt like that’s something that the characters of Big Bang Theory would approve of.
Brussels also has a Comics Art Museum where you can dive into the vibrant world of comic books. From Tintin to The Smurfs, this museum celebrates Belgium’s significant contribution to the world of comics.
If you’d like to attend a comic festival, then look out for BD Comic Strip Festival, Made in Asia, and Comic Con Brussels.
7) Place du Jeu de Balle Flea Market
If you’re a fan of antiques and quirky finds, head to the Place du Jeu de Balle, home to a famous flea market. Explore the stalls brimming with vintage treasures, adding a unique touch to your Brussels experience.
Situated in Brussels’ Marolles district, the Place du Jeu de Balle Flea Market is like a vintage treasure hunt waiting to unfold. Dating back to the late 19th century, this market has an irresistible charm that draws both locals and tourists into its labyrinth of stalls and curiosities. Picture cobblestone streets, a mishmash of eclectic goods, and a buzzing atmosphere that’s as lively as Brussels itself.
Here, you can unearth a trove of treasures—antique furniture with stories to tell, quirky collectibles, and funky second-hand threads that could make your wardrobe pop. The market’s semi-casual vibe encourages strolls, letting you strike up conversations with passionate vendors who know the ins and outs of their trade.
What makes the Place du Jeu de Balle Flea Market truly special is its blend of history and contemporary flair. It’s a place where you can snag a piece of the past while savoring the dynamic energy of the present.
Whether you’re a vintage enthusiast or just out for a casual browse, this market promises a delightful experience, turning every visit into a charming escapade through Brussels’ cultural kaleidoscope.
8) Brussels Christmas Market is Magical
Christmas Time in Brussels – Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
If you are visiting Brussels when the Christmas Markets are on, then you are going to love it. I visited Brussels in December when the Christmas Markets were on. I was pretty impressed with the city at that time because even the trams were Christmas-themed.
Brussels transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. The Christmas market at the Grand Place, adorned with lights and decorations, offers a magical atmosphere and the chance to sample seasonal treats.
Christmas Lights on the street in Brussels
Arrive at Grand-Place and see the Christmas decor. The best time would be to come here right before it gets dark and see how the lights are turned on one by one, and everything sparkles.
I also saw a Christmas tree that was hanging from one of the historical buildings here next to the Brussels City Museum (Maison du Roi).
Grand-Place at Christmas Time, Brussels
During Christmas time, there is a hidden gem in Brussels. It is a small spot called Christmas Fairies, where you can see a view of the Grand-Place. You can also buy a drink here and meet Santa and his elves.
In the summer months, you can escape the bustling city center and unwind in Parc du Cinquantenaire or Josaphat Parc. Both these parks are scenic, well kept and are perfect for picnics, and leisurely walks.
Parc du Cinquantenaire is nice for exploring the impressive arch that dominates its center. Josaphat Parc has a nice brunch restaurant inside called La Laiterie. You can sit outside in the summer months and drink mimosas with your brunch. I visited it in winter and noticed that it is cozy and they make the perfect winter cocktails with gin, caramelized orange, and Cointreau.
10) Getting Around Brussels is Easy
Tram in Brussels
I visited Brussels with my little girl and husband, and we all found the public transportation super simple. Navigating Brussels is a breeze with its efficient metro system and well-connected train stations.
It is cheaper to purchase a Brussels Card for free entry to numerous museums and unlimited public transportation. But even if you don’t, you can use your European bank card on the machines that are inside the trams or buses.
Brussels Nord train station
We used all sorts of Public transport in Brussels – trams, buses and trains. Additionally, we traveled a lot using app-based bike or e-scooter rental services like Tier and Bolt. We did walk a lot but I’d say the entire city isn’t as tiny as Amsterdam so you can’t rely on just waking.
If you are landing at Brussels Airport, know that is an international hub. It is easy to reach the city from the Airport with an intercity train. Plan your arrival and departure with ease, setting the stage for a seamless journey.
11) Perfect Base for Exploring Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp
If you are spending a few days in Brussels, why not make a day trip to the nearby places to see in Belgium? I’m talking about the stunning Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.
Brussels to Bruges is a one-hour trip one way on InterCity train, 40 minutes to Antwerp, and 35 minutes to Ghent.
Of course, it is possible to do it yourself but for an easier experience, you may want to consider booking a day trip where you don’t have to make much effort but just go with a group of people on a tour bus.
Drawbacks of Visiting Brussels
Sunset view from Mont des Arts in Brussels, Belgium via Unsplash
While Brussels has its unique charm and attractions, like any destination, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks.
If you are looking for a “party” city, then please know that Brussels isn’t for you, you’d be better off in Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Belgrade, London, Prague, Lisbon, Hamburg, Bucharest, or Budapest. Brussels has bars and clubs but they are a bit subdued.
Brussels is known to be relatively more expensive compared to some other European cities. Accommodations and dining can be pricey, especially in the central areas. But if you go to Paris or Hamburg or Amsterdam or Rome, they aren’t at all cheaper than Belgium. But places like Budapest, Lisbon, or Bucharest will be.
If warm weather is your high priority, then Brussels may not be a fun destination for you because the weather is unpredictable – just like Amsterdam, Paris, London, or Berlin. For warm weather, pick something in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Cyperus or Turkey. I live in Germany and I can now handle bad weather pretty well so it didn’t bother me.
Where to Stay in Brussels?
I had booked an entire apartment during my stay in Brussels. It is called Living Home Brussels and is conveniently located in Schaerbeek. It was right next to the Princess Elisabeth tram station. Note that Schaerbeek isn’t in the center but is just an 8-minute tram ride away.
Living Home Brussels – apartment stay
What I didn’t like about our accommodation at Living Home Brussels was that the toilet was outside the apartment near the staircase. The shower was inside the bedroom but was a completely see-through glass cubicle. Everything else was ok about this accommodation.
This place was otherwise pretty comfortable but I’m just so used to having an en suite toilet and bath, and it came as a total shock to me that I had to step out of the room to go to the toilet.
If you want to stay in the center, then I recommend “Motel One” – it is pretty, more affordable than many others, and very conveniently located.
Due to its amazing location, decent price, and lovely rooms, the rooms at Motel One sell out pretty fast, so if you are heading to Brussels then you might want to book a room here as soon as possible.
If you are looking for a European city that effortlessly blends its historic charm with modern vibrancy then you will enjoy your time in Brussels. Whether you’re captivated by the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Grand Place, indulging in delectable Belgian chocolates and waffles, or navigating the halls of the European Parliament, Brussels has something to offer every traveler.
So, is Brussels worth visiting? Without a doubt, yes. This underrated city stands as a testament to the richness of European destinations, providing a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor. Plan your Brussels adventure, explore its hidden gems, and unravel the layers of this enchanting Belgian capital.
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Hello Travelers!
Namaste, Guten Tag!
I'm Sonal from India. I've been writing about my travels since 2015.
I love European city breaks, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, music festivals, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.
