Top sights in Brussels
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is a fascinating place with stunning architecture and fascinating history in every street and alley. The atmosphere of the city is difficult to pin down. At times it seems very business and bureaucratic oriented, it is after all the administrative center of the EU, but at other times it feels laid back and doesn't take itself too seriously: think Manneken Pis and the Comics Center.
It is this multi-layered atmosphere that makes Brussels such a pleasant city to visit. It truly has something for everyone and offers European must-sees such as art and architecture alongside more unusual attractions. Don't visit Brussels if you're on a diet because fries, mussels, and beer will soon make you happy.
Spending just a few days in the city will allow you to see all the major and most popular sights, but if you're here for a week you can visit more obscure but equally fascinating attractions. Let's take a look at the best things to do in Brussels:
Be Inspired by the Grand Place
Brussels' Grand Place is hidden away in the center of the city, but when you walk in, you're sure to be amazed. At the center of the Grand Place is the magnificent 15th-century town hall, but all around the square, you will also be impressed by the six guild halls and their striking architecture. The square is worth visiting several times at different times of the day. On certain days there is a flower market in the square and a night visit is recommended.
Step back in time to the Old England Building
The Old England building in Brussels was once a department store and was built in the very last year of the 19th century. The building attracts visitors because of its magnificent facade but also because of the fascinating and extensive music museum it houses. The museum houses more than 2000 musical instruments of historical value and offers visitors the opportunity to listen to several of them. The cafe on the roof of the building offers a memorable panoramic view of the city.
Visit Brussel’s Notre Dame Du Sablon
This spectacular Gothic cathedral began life in the 14th century when it was used as a chapel by the archers' guild. It was greatly expanded in the following century for the popularity and supposed healing powers of the Madonna statue located within. The statue was allegedly stolen by a team of husband and wife thieves in a rowing boat. The location of the statue is unknown but the story is commemorated by a life-size model inside the building.
Lace in the Costume Museum
Lace is one of the oldest crafts in Brussels, and the art of needle lace, which first developed in Italy, was one of the main industries in Brussels. The details of the lace outfit museum have been made as well as the display of many historical outfits. The exhibits change constantly but are always well presented.
Admire Le Botanique
The Botanique was historically the city's botanical garden and still attracts a large number of guests today. The greenhouse, which dates from the 19th century, now regularly hosts a range of performing arts and makes the place feel more like a cultural center than just a garden. However, if you like greenery, the surrounding gardens are still intact and present in all their glory and provide a welcoming change of pace from the town itself. Ps: The Botanique is included in the Brussels Bard which you can get here.
Palais Royal
Although the Royal Family of Belgium now spends its life in Laeken, the Royal Palace of Brussels remains its official residence. The palace is open to tourists during the summer months and is a valuable addition to any itinerary when visiting the city. The most remarkable room in the palace has a ceiling covered in beetle wings, forming a mosaic of eerie beauty. The artworks as well as the interior decoration are as splendid as one would expect from a royal palace.
Laugh at the Manneken Pis
This strange statue has become famous and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. The name simply translates to "little man pee" and he was given that name for obvious reasons. The statue takes a bit of skill to track down (unless you see it as part of a guided tour), but it's worth persevering. You will find it by taking the right lane away from the town hall. The statue is believed to date back to the early 17th century when it was designed by Jérôme Duquesnoy.
Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts
If you're in the mood for top-notch art (and you should be in a European capital), look no further than the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The museum includes collections of modern and ancient art in a range of styles. Famous works in the museum include the Fall of Icarus, and various paintings by the Antwerp painter Peter Rubens. Works by Anthony Van Dyke, and Hans Memling are also on display. Allow nearly a full day to fully appreciate the museum.
Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire
The Parc du Cinquantenaire has existed since the reign of Leopold II. It's a great place to visit for a number of reasons; whether you plan to picnic on the grass while soaking up the stunning architecture, or intend to appreciate the vast collection of With 35,000 artifacts housed in museums here, a trip to Parc Du Cinquantenaire should be part of any trip to Brussels.
Cafe Belga
A real institution in the city of Brussels, Café Belga is very popular with locals, expatriates, and tourists. Located in the heart of Place Flagey (which itself is a bit of a cultural mixing pot), the café offers great views, a lively atmosphere, and great affordable Belgian café food. The cafe gets very busy in the summer, but that's part of its charm. While you're in the area, Frit Flagey is worth a visit and serves up some of the best fries in town.
Enjoy the nightlife
Brussels nightlife is varied and entertaining and suits all tastes and budgets. One of the most interesting nights out is Madame Moustache, a club with waiters dressed in sailor's clothes that plays a variety of different music. Admission is free on weeknights but not on weekends (it also gets busier on weekends). Dancing is the best way to enjoy your night here, but if that's not your thing, there's always a foosball room available. There is also a 4-Hour Locals Pub and Club Crawl that you can book here.
Marvel at the Atomium
The Atomium, located in Heysel Park to the west of the city, is a breathtaking model of an atom that happens to be 100 meters high. The sculpture was made in 1958 to welcome a new atomic age to Belgium and is an accurate representation of an iron molecule, except that it is approximately 165 billion times larger! Life under a glass roof takes guests to the top in just 20 seconds, where they can enjoy a beer and a snack before descending. The entrance ticket can be booked here.
Belgium Visa from Pakistan you should apply for your visa in person at the Belgian embassy or consulate which is competent for your country of residence, where you will be requested to communicate your travel destination as well as the circumstances of it.