EXPERIENCE BRUSSELS

A BUZZING BELGIAN HUB

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the de facto capital of the European Union (EU), making it a center for international politics and diplomacy. The city is renowned for its rich history, architectural landmarks, diverse cultural scene, and culinary delights, particularly its chocolates, waffles, fries and beers.

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The Grand Place's history dates back to the 10th century when it was a market place where traders and citizens sold and bought goods. Over the centuries, it has been the site of many significant historical events, including the 1695 bombardment by the French army led by King Louis XIV, after which the square was rebuilt in its current form. It is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval squares in Europe, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is A LOT of gold on display in this square. You know what they say, if you got it, flaunt it I guess.

Visit the Grand Place (Grote Markt)

Venture inside the Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels' most iconic landmarks and represents a unique piece of architecture in the history of the 20th century. The Atomium symbolizes the atomic age and the peaceful use of nuclear energy for scientific purposes. Structurally, the Atomium depicts an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It consists of nine spheres connected by tubes, with the entire structure standing 102 meters tall. Each sphere has a diameter of 18 meters. The tubes contain escalators that transport visitors between the spheres, which house exhibit halls and public spaces. The top sphere offers a panoramic view of the city of Brussels. A regular ticket to all exhibitions, as well as the Design Museum (150m down the road) costs €16, and €8.50 for students.

The Brussels Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, is a Roman Catholic church located in the heart of Brussels. The construction of the cathedral began at the end of the 13th century and continued in various phases, taking a total of 300 years to complete. The church is open until 18.00 every day, and you can go inside and admire the stunning architecture. There are beautiful stained glass windows, some of which date back to the 16th century. The windows depict various biblical scenes and the lives of saints. There is also a crypt, which contains the remains of the Dukes of Brabant, and its treasury, where various religious relics, liturgical vestments, and silverware are preserved.

Have a look inside the Brussels Cathedral

Stroll through the Brussels Park

Brussels Park, known for many years previously as the Royal Park, is the oldest park in the region which became a public park. It has cool statues and Built on the ruins of the park of the Dukes of Burgundy and the Governors of the Spanish Netherlands, it stands proudly between the Federal Parliament and the Royal Palace, symbols of power and the monarchy. This spot, was once the site of fierce battles for the people of Brussels during the revolution in 1830. It also has a fountain where you can cool down during the hot summer days, but be advised - it is rather slippery. I almost fell on my face after this picture was taken.

It is a museum particularly renowned for its extensive collection of dinosaur skeletons, which is among the largest in Europe. The museum is part of the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and offers a wide range of exhibits that cover various aspects of natural history, including zoology, paleontology, anthropology, and geology. A notable exhibit is the Gallery of Evolution, which takes visitors through the history of life on Earth, from the earliest organisms to the diversity of life forms existing today. This exhibit emphasizes the processes of evolution and natural selection, explaining how and why species adapt and change over time. The museum also houses the Gallery of Humankind, which traces the evolution of humans, examining our origins, how our ancestors lived, and how modern humans spread across the globe.

Visit the Natural Science Museum

Taste a bunch of Belgian beers at the Delirium Café

Located in the heart of the city, near the Grand Place, this iconic establishment has become a must-visit for beer enthusiasts from around the world. The café gained global recognition when it was awarded the Guinness World Record for the most beers offered in 2004, boasting over 2,000 different types of beer from various countries. In addition to the main bar area, Delirium Café has expanded over the years to include multiple floors and themed bars, each offering a different ambiance and selection of drinks. This includes the Delirium Hoppy Loft, which focuses on craft and specialty beers, and the Delirium Taphouse, which features a wide range of draft beers.

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a stunning complex of greenhouse structures located in the grounds of the Royal Castle of Laeken, the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family. Unfortunately, these gardens are only open to the public from the 26th of April to the 20th of May. The reason for this is seemingly cultural, as it is a 100-year old tradition instilled by King Leopold II who commissioned the construction. The greenhouses are home to an exceptional collection of flora, including many rare and exotic species that have been collected by the Belgian Royal Family over the years. As such, it is a pity that the Belgian Royals do not share this with the public year-round. If you will not be around Brussels on these dates, check the recommendation below to still see some beautiful gardens on your trip.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Take an e-scooter around the Japanese Tower

Located near the Royal Domain in Laeken, close to the Royal Palace of Laeken, the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family. The Japanese Tower is part of a fascinating complex that includes the Chinese Pavilion and the Museum of Japanese Art, collectively known as the Museums of the Far East. The inside is currently closed to visitors, which is why we suggest taking an e-scooter around this area to see the outside of these magnificent buildings. The Japanese Tower was commissioned by King Leopold II of Belgium after he was impressed by the Japanese pavilion at the 1900 Paris Exposition. The tower, along with the Chinese Pavilion, reflects Leopold II's fascination with Oriental art and culture.

The museum traces the history of chocolate, starting from its use by ancient civilizations in Central and South America, where the cocoa bean was not only a valuable food item but also used as currency and in rituals. One of the highlights of a visit to Choco-Story Brussels is the live chocolate-making demonstrations conducted by professional chocolatiers. The layout of the museum follows the journey of chocolate to Europe, where it was initially consumed as a drink among the aristocracy before evolving into the solid forms we are familiar with today. I am not convinced that the story of exploitation and slavery was not sufficiently addressed in this museum though.

Visit the Brussels Chocolate Museum

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