Things to do in Brussels

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A bustling square with historic buildings, a prominent clock tower, and a crowd of people.
A city square with historic buildings, a cafe, and a roundabout.
A large, illuminated dome structure with columns, surrounded by trees and a stage with performers.
A formal garden with geometric patterns, a large building, and a historic tower in the background.
A historic building with ornate architecture, a prominent tower, and a statue of a figure on horseback.

Things to do

Bruges Day Trip: Canal Boat, Windmills & Damme

Bruges Day Trip: Canal Boat, Windmills & Damme

￥8,281
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Bruges Day Trip: Canal Boat, Windmills & Damme
Tootbus Brussels Discovery

Tootbus Brussels Discovery Hop-on Hop-off bus tour

￥5,162
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Tootbus Brussels Discovery Hop-on Hop-off bus tour
From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

￥9,018
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour
Picture 18 for Activity From Brussels: Day Trip to Amsterdam

From Brussels: Day Trip to Amsterdam with Canal Boat Cruise

￥11,428
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
From Brussels: Day Trip to Amsterdam with Canal Boat Cruise
Brussels: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket

Brussels: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket

￥3,589
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Brussels: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
Brussels: Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

Brussels: Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

￥6,441
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Brussels: Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting
Brussels: Autoworld Museum Ticket

Brussels: Autoworld Museum Ticket

￥3,313
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Brussels: Autoworld Museum Ticket
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Brussels must see attractions

1. La Grand Place

Brussels’ town square, La Grand-Place, is one of the oldest features of the Belgian capital, with roots that date back to the 12th century. Today, the market stalls are gone but the square is full of history. Make a journey to the square to capture some historic Belgian flavor in the heart of the city.
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A grand, ornate building with intricate architectural details and a large open square in front.

2. Atomium

The Atomium is one of the most recognizable structures in Brussels, and one of the strangest. The futuristic steel building features nine stainless steel balls connected by large metal tubes to resemble an iron crystal. It was originally constructed as the centerpiece for Belgium’s 1958 World Expo. Today, the newly renovated Atomium can be seen from across town or photographed from below in the beautiful Ossegempark. The public can visit four of the Atomium’s upper spheres. One of the spheres contains a restaurant while others contain permanent exhibitions. The Atomium is the most popular attraction in Brussels and will appeal to families, history enthusiasts and those with an appreciation for innovative design.
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A spherical structure with a reflective surface against a clear blue sky.

3. Manneken Pis Statue

A urinating child is an unusual subject for a bronze statue, but in Brussels it is one of the most popular attractions in the city. At only 24 inches (61 centimeters) tall, Manneken Pis is far from Brussels’ biggest statue. What it lacks in size is offset by the joy it brings to the Belgians. The statue was originally one of many fountains around Brussels providing drinking water for local residents. Today, four centuries later, the statue has become an icon for the city. Residents regularly dress the statue in elaborate costumes to celebrate local and global holidays.
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A bronze statue of a child on a pedestal, set against a weathered stone wall with intricate carvings.

4. Royal Palace of Brussels

While the King and Queen of the Belgians live in a palace north of the center of Brussels, the Royal Palace is where they work. Since the 19th century, Belgian monarchs have greeted the people from the doors of this Royal Palace, which remains in operation today. Most of the year visitors to the palace can view it only from afar. In summer the palace opens its doors to the public. Explore many cavernous rooms as you admire the ornate architecture, an initiative of ‘The Belgian Bull,” King Leopold II. A visit to the Royal Palace is central to understanding Belgium’s royal history and provides a rare insight into the daily life of the King and Queen.
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A grand, snow-covered building with classical architecture, including columns and a dome.

5. Place du Grand Sablon

Brussels’ entertainment precinct centers itself around this elegant square. Place du Grand Sablon maintains the historic charm of the surrounding neighborhoods. The restaurants, cafés and eateries that line its edges offer contemporary Belgian cuisine; some of the city’s best restaurants can be found here. The square is also home to a number of antique dealers and is a great place to shop for a special gift. Visit the square on the weekend to experience the atmosphere of the city’s biggest antique and book market.
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A cobblestone street lined with historic buildings, outdoor seating at cafes, and pedestrians.

What to do in Brussels

Stay near popular Brussels attractions

A grand, ornate building with intricate architectural details and a large open square in front.

La Grand Place

9.4/10 (6,770 reviews)
The Grand Place dazzles with its ornate Gothic and Baroque guild houses, forming Brussels' architectural masterpiece. Savor Belgian chocolates at a café terrace while admiring the illuminated facades in the evening.
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Where to stay in Brussels

Find the best Brussels areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Brussels
Learn more about Brussels
Ornate European architecture with golden accents and statues.

Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk

Take time in Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk to visit attractions like La Grand Place and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. You might also appreciate the interesting museums, and you can hop on the metro at Bourse-Beurs Station to see more of the city.

A historic European town with a central fountain, surrounded by colorful buildings and a willow tree.

Ixelles

Travelers choose Ixelles for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Dautzenberg Tram Stop or Flagey Tram Stop and check out top sights like Avenue Louise.

A large, historic archway with statues and a central monument, surrounded by a well-maintained garden and a parking area.

European Quarter

You might take some time to check out the lively bars in European Quarter. Spend some time visiting top spots like Schumanplein, and catch the metro at Maalbeek-Maelbeek Station or Arts-Loi - Kunst-Wet Station to see more of the area.

A historic cathedral with a large rose window and a bell tower.

Dansaert

If you're spending time in Dansaert, check out sights like Brussels Christmas Market or St. Catherine's Square and hop on the metro to see more the city at Sainte Catherine-Sint Katelijne Station or Porte de Flandre - Vlaamsepoort.

A cobblestone square with outdoor seating, a prominent church with a tall spire, and surrounding historic buildings.
Photo by Krystalvation
Open Photo by Krystalvation

Sint-Gillis

Noted for its coffeehouses and shopping, there's plenty to explore in Sint-Gillis. Top attractions like Brussels South Railway Station and Saint Gilles Town Hall are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Bethléem Tram Stop or Guillaume Tell Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Popular day trips from Brussels

A person climbing a steep staircase on a grassy hill under a clear sky.

Waterloo

A directional sign with arrows pointing to Leuven, Bruxelles, and Zaventem.

Zaventem

An airplane approaching a runway with multiple tall structures with lights.

Machelen

A large, historic brick building with a prominent tower and multiple windows.

Dilbeek

A historic church with a tall tower and a smaller dome, surrounded by lush greenery and residential buildings.

Grimbergen

A large, historic building with a green facade and multiple windows, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees.

La Hulpe

A forest path with a carpet of blue flowers.

Halle

A pink rose with green leaves.

Sint-Pieters-Leeuw

Frequently asked questions

Is Brussels worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Brussels is visit Royal Palace of Brussels. Tick this leading attraction off your list, then discover more of this area's bars and pubs and dining.
How do I spend a day in Brussels?
Royal Palace of Brussels and Mini-Europe are two excellent places to begin your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Brussels while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Brussels?
Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the top tourist attractions in Brussels and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Brussels?
Three days in Brussels is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests book for three days on average. Royal Palace of Brussels, Belgian Comic Strip Center and Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Antwerp.
Is Brussels a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Brussels. Several top sights, including Royal Palace of Brussels and Belgian Comic Strip Center, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Brussels's best neighborhoods, Lower Town is 0.48 kilometers away from downtown, while Quartier du Centre - Centrumwijk is 0.16 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Brussels with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Brussels with kids.

What to do in Brussels for adults?
Cantillon Brewery and Brussels Beer Project are just a few of the things to do in Brussels. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Brussels?
In Brussels, Cinquantenaire Park is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Brussels.

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