Are you planning to visit Brussels ? This city offers an exciting blend of history, culture, architecture, cuisine, and nightlife that will leave you wanting more.
car rental Belgium is an excellent option for exploring all that this city has to offer. In this article, we'll take you on a journey of discovery in Brussels, highlighting some of the best sights, sounds, and flavors to experience throughout your visit.
Exploring Brussels' History and Culture
Brussels' rich history is evident in its awe-inspiring architecture and landmarks. Start your journey by marveling at the stunning art nouveau buildings in the Saint-Gilles neighborhood. A must-visit is the iconic Atomium, a 102-meter-tall stainless steel structure built for the 1958 World Expo. To gain a better understanding of the city's roots, the BELvue Museum chronicles Belgium's history and its monarchy.
A Gourmet Tour of Brussels
No trip to Brussels is complete without indulging in its delicious cuisine. Belgian chocolate is world-renowned for its smooth, creamy texture and exquisite taste. Head to the Grand Place to sample some of the city's finest chocolatiers. Belgian waffles are another favorite, and there's no shortage of vendors to choose from. Moules Frites, a classic dish, features mussels cooked in white wine with crispy fries. To complete your gourmet journey, explore the world of Belgian beer, home to over 1,000 different varieties.
Sampling Belgian Chocolate
The city's chocolate heritage is a source of pride for the Belgians. As you stroll down the Marolles neighborhood, pop into some of the independent chocolateries. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in some of the famous truffles and pralines varieties in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.
Indulging in Belgian Waffles
Belgian waffles are a treat for your taste buds, and Brussels is known for its light, fluffy version. Whether you like it plain or with toppings like strawberries and cream, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce, the scent of fresh waffles wafting from street vendors will lead you in the right direction.
Tasting Moules Frites
A Belgian staple, Moules Frites is a must-try for seafood lovers. The dish comes with steaming fresh mussels and crispy fries, with a dollop of mayonnaise to dip them in. Visit Chez Leon, a restaurant that has been serving this signature dish since 1893.
Exploring the World of Belgian Beer
Brussels is known for its lively beer scene, with plenty of beer halls, pubs, and beer-tasting tours. Stop by the Delirium Cafe, which boasts over 2000 types of beer, including seasonal brews. If you're looking for a more educational experience, visit the interactive Beer Museum to learn about the history of beer in Belgium.
Relaxing in Brussels' Parks and Gardens
Get away from the bustling city by spending some time in one of Brussels' many parks and gardens. The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken is a splendid collection of greenhouses that house exotic plants and the Royal family's own personal collection. Cinquantenaire Park boasts stunning monuments and museums and is perfect for a picnic. The Mont des Arts Garden, located next to the Royal Palace, offers a panoramic view of the city.
The Best Shopping Spots in Brussels
Brussels is the perfect destination for shopping lovers. Start your shopping adventure at the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, which features high-end designer shops and artisanal boutiques under a glass roof. Avenue Louise is home to luxury fashion brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. The flea markets in Place du Jeu de Balle are perfect for bargain hunters looking for unique finds. Sablon Antique Market is a treasure trove of antique jewelry, rare books, and vintage furniture.
Exploring the Famous Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
This shopping arcade is a landmark of Brussels' shopping scene. It is home to dozens of luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, and cafes. This shopping mecca has a glass ceiling that floods the space with natural light, giving visitors a sense of being outdoors while shopping indoors.
Discovering Luxury Brands at Avenue Louise
If you're in the mood for some serious shopping, Avenue Louise is the place to be. You'll find international luxury brands such as Chanel, Gucci, Prada, and Dior. Even if luxury brands are out of your reach, you can still enjoy window shopping for an extravagant experience.
Exploring the Treasures of Brussels' Flea Markets
For a budget-friendly shopping experience, visit the flea markets in Place du Jeu de Balle. Get there early in the morning for the best bargains and souvenirs, including vintage clothing, old books, antique furniture, and rare musical instruments.
Finding Unique Souvenirs at Sablon Antique Market
Sablon Antique Market is a treasure trove of antique goodies, including African beads, vintage pottery, antique jewelry, and Oriental rugs. The cozy outdoor market is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or gifts to take back home.
Enjoying Brussels' Dynamic Nightlife Scene
Brussels has an eclectic and vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of options for dancing, live music, or simply relaxing with a drink. Le Botanique is a concert venue that showcases local artists in an intimate setting. The Fuse Club caters to techno-music lovers who dance the night away. Bar-hopping is a popular activity in the Saint-Gilles area, with plenty of quaint and diverse pubs to explore.