Brussels: Things to Do in the Charming Capital of Belgium

Also known as Ville de Bruxelles or Bruxelles-Ville, the capital of Belgium is regarded as the largest municipality and historical center of the region. Due to such characteristics, Brussels is home to various sightseeing destinations. We are going to be covering ten of the best attractions in Brussels which are worth sightseeing.

1. Grand Place

The first sightseeing attraction that could be found in Brussels is the Grand Place. It serves as the central square of Brussels. It is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and two larger edifices - the King's House and the Town Hall of the city. The King's House contains the Museum of the City of Brussels. The Grand Place is the most memorable landmark and a significant sightseeing destination for tourists. Additionally, it has been considered as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It has been regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Atomium

The Atomium is a unique building that stands towards the north of the city. Originally built for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, the Atomium can be found on the Heysel Plateau where the expo once took place. Designed by Andre Waterkeyn and Andre and Jean Polak, the Atomium has a height of 102 meters and is characterized by the nine stainless steel clad spheres. The spheres are connected with each other so the that the whole structure forms the shape of the atomic structure of an iron crystal that has been magnified 165 billion times.

3. Manneken Pis

Another interesting attraction that is worth sightseeing when you are in Brussels is the Manneken Pis. This landmark is a small bronze sculpture that depicts a naked little boy that is urinating into a basin of a fountain. Designed by Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, the original version of this sculpture was finished in 1619. The statue that could be seen now is only a replica of the original one which dates from 1965. The original could be found in the Museum of the City of Brussels. Manneken Pis embodies the sense of humor and the independent mind of Brussels.

4. Het Zinneke

The Het Zinneke is another of the city's quirky and unique statues. Erected in 1998, this sculpture represents a dog that is urinating on the sidewalk. It is a distinct and remarkable attraction that goes with other urinating structures around Brussels including the Manneken Pis and the Jeanneke Pis. This sculpture was created by Tom Frantzen, a prominent sculptor who is born and raised in Brussels. The Het Zinneke is really a great attraction to go to if you are looking for unique places to go while sightseeing in Brussels.

5. Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is Roman Catholic church that's located at the heart of Brussels. The church was built in the 11th century but not completed until the 16th century when its two iconic towers were finished. The architecture of the church features a beautiful Gothic and Brabantine Gothic style, which can be seen on its facade and interior. When visiting the inside of the cathedral, you will be able to see sculptures which date from the 17th century and were constructed by Jerome Duquesnoy the Younger, Lucas Faydherbe along with Johannes van Mildert.

6. Place Royale

The Place Royale, also known as the Koningsplein translated to the King's Square in Dutch, is a historical square featuring some beautiful neoclassical architecture that's located in the center of Brussels. This sightseeing attraction was built on the previous area of the Baliënplein, the main market square which was found beside the former palace of Coudenberg. After the palace burned down, the square was constructed. It was finished in 1780 with architect Barnabe Guimard as the designer. The Place Royale is a great place for checking out the prominent structures in Brussels such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium and the BELvue Museum.

7. Musical Instruments Museum

The Musical Instruments Museum showcase a range of different unique instruments and musical history exhibitions in the center of Brussels. It is making waves internationally due to its impressive collection of over 8,000 musical instruments. The museum details the musical history of Brussels, the musical traditions of Europe, along with various non-European instruments. When visiting the museum, you will also see several distinct musical instruments such as the popular Adolphe Sax. The Musical Instruments Museum is also part of the Royal Museums for Art and History.

8. Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site

The Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site is a historical area found in Coudenberg, a small hill in Brussels where the Palace of Coudenberg was constructed. The archaeological site holds the remains of the ancient palace which has been excavated below the present ground level. It provides an exceptional exhibition of historical artifacts. When sightseeing around the Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site, you will be able to see the warehouse space, the rooms, the Aula Magna and more.

9. Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts, also known as the Kunstberg, is a historical site and urban complex that's located at the center of Brussels. The area is home to the National Archives of Belgium, the Royal Library of Belgium, and the Square Brussels Meeting Center, along with a beautiful public garden. The view from the hill offers some impressive views of Brussels where you can see iconic structures such as the Grand Place and the Atomium.

10. Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire which stands for Park of the Fiftieth Anniversary in French is a large urban park towards the east of the city. Also known as Jubelpark, this park commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of Belgium's independence. The park was created in 1880 when it was commissioned by the Belgian government. When sightseeing around the park, you will be able to see various attractions such as the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, the Art and History Museum, and the AutoWorld and more.

Conclusion

As the capital of Belgium, there are endless places to visit and see in the beautiful city of Brussels. Whether you're coming to understand the city's fascinating history, check out some famous art galleries or just soaking in the local culture, there's plenty to fill your itinerary here.