10 Beautiful Sites to Visit in Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a beautiful and charming city that attracts millions of tourists every year. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and delicious food. In this blog post, I’ll provide you with a detailed guide to the top beautiful sites to visit in Brussels, Belgium.

The Atomium

The Atomium is a giant steel structure that was built for the 1958 World Expo in Brussels. It stands over 100 meters tall and has nine spheres connected by tubes. The Atomium is an iconic landmark of Brussels and offers a fantastic view of the city from the top sphere. Take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the city and visit the restaurant.

Admission prices are €16 for adults, €8,50 for children, students, and disabled. Tickets include the entire Atomium, in addition to the permanent exhibition, the temporary exhibition and the panorama. Check out their website for all other information to plan a visit!

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the heart of Brussels and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is surrounded by beautiful and ornate guildhalls, many of which date back to the 14th century. Grand Place is the perfect place to start your tour of Brussels and is especially beautiful at night when illuminated.

There is no fee to enter the Grand Place, and it’s open to visitors 24 hours a day. However, if you want to visit the interior of some of the buildings, such as the Town Hall, there may be an entrance fee. It’s best to check with each individual attraction for their specific hours and fees.

Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis is a famous statue in Brussels that depicts a little boy urinating. The statue is small but is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The statue has over 1000 different costumes, which are rotated throughout the year, making it a fun attraction to visit.

If you’re passing by, be sure to check the published schedule posted on the railings of the fountain. The outfit changes are managed by a non-profit organization: “The Friends of Manneken-Pis”. When we were there in March, it was dressed for March 21st, or Trisomy 21.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

If you’re looking for a unique and luxurious shopping experience in Brussels, look no further than Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This beautiful shopping arcade is one of the oldest in Europe and has been a popular destination for shoppers since it first opened in 1847.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is located in the heart of Brussels and is home to over 50 luxury boutiques, including some of the most prestigious brands in the world. Visitors can shop for high-end fashion, jewelry, chocolate, and much more.

In addition to the luxurious shopping experience, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is also a beautiful attraction to visit. The arcade features a stunning glass roof, ornate decorations, and beautiful mosaics on the floor. Visitors can stroll through the arcade, admire the beautiful architecture, and enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

The Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is open seven days a week, from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. However, the individual store hours may vary, so it’s best to check with the specific store you want to visit to confirm their opening hours.

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace is where the King of Belgium exercises his authority as Head of State and is also the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium. It also houses rooms for special guests, most of which are Heads of State and the offices of certain ministries. Visitors can admire the beautiful neoclassical architecture and the stunning gardens surrounding the palace.

The palace is open to the public during the summer months, and visitors can explore the elegant rooms and halls inside. Visiting times are Tuesday through Sunday, closed on Mondays.

Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts is a beautiful park in Brussels that offers stunning views of the city. Stroll through the gardens or have a picnic. The park is home to several museums, including the Magritte Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a group of museums that are located in the heart of Brussels. The museums have an extensive collection of art, including works from Flemish Masters such as Rubens and Bruegel, as well as modern and contemporary art. The museums are a must-visit for art lovers.

Church of Our Lady Victories at the Sablon

The Church of Our Lady Victories at the Sablon is a stunning example of Baroque architecture in Brussels. The church dates back to the 17th century and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Visitors can admire the beautiful sculptures and paintings inside the church free of charge every day of the year.

The View Grande and the Courthouse

The Courthouse in Brussels is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. It was designed by Joseph Poelaert and is one of the largest courthouses in the world. The courthouse is an impressive sight, with its grand staircase, columns, and domed roof.

The View Grande is a beautiful square in Brussels that offers panoramic views of the city. It is located at the top of a hill next to the Courthouse and is accessible by stairs or a lift. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and its landmarks, including the Royal Palace, the Atomium, and the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral.

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral

The St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Brussels. The cathedral dates back to the 11th century and has undergone several restorations and renovations over the centuries. Visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows, the beautiful vaulted ceilings, and the ornate chapels inside the cathedral.

You can take an interactive QR code tour while visiting this beautiful Cathedral. For €4, you can use your phone to scan the 16 QR codes throughout to access the narration of stories, anecdotes, history, and detailed photos. The tour has 4 language options and can last 30-45 minutes.

City Street Art

Brussels has a thriving street art scene, with many murals and graffiti dotted around the city. The Parcours Street Art is a self-guided walking tour that takes you past some of the city’s most impressive street art, including works by internationally renowned artists.

Brussels is a city that has something for everyone, from historic landmarks to vibrant food and drink scenes. The Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, Mont des Arts, and Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are just a few of the many must-visit attractions in the city. There are also many other activities to do and see, including shopping, street art, and enjoying delicious Belgian cuisine.

Check out Ultimate 3 Day Guide to Brussels to help plan your next trip!