16 Best Things to Do in Brussels

Publié le 12 sept. 2026 · 9 min de lecture · 16 choses à faire

Brussels is a compact, multifaceted capital that seamlessly balances centuries of political and architectural history with a relaxed, contemporary culture. Whether you are exploring its UNESCO-listed central square, sampling renowned artisanal chocolates, or hunting for antiques in Les Marolles, the city offers distinct experiences across its varied quarters. This guide outlines sixteen essential sights and activities to help you structure a rewarding itinerary, whether visiting for a weekend or as part of a broader European journey through destinations like Andorra or Albania.

1. 1. Grand Place (Grote Markt)

   The central square of Brussels is widely regarded as one of Europe's finest, framed by ornate 17th-century guildhouses and the gothic Town Hall. Visitors can stroll across the cobbled plaza to admire the intricate gold-leaf facades or enjoy a drink at an outdoor cafe. The square shifts in character throughout the day, from bustling morning markets to dramatic evening illumination.

   Pourquoi y aller: It is the architectural and historical heart of Brussels, making it an unmissable starting point for any visit.

   Conseil: Visit early in the morning to capture photos without crowds, or return after dark when the facades are lit.

   HistoireActivités en extérieurPetit budget

2. 2. Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries

   Opened in 1847, this grand glazed shopping arcade predates many of Europe's famous covered passages. The complex is split into the King's, Queen's, and Prince's Galleries, housing luxury boutiques, historic cafes, and premier chocolatiers. A stroll beneath the vaulted glass ceiling offers a refined look at 19th-century Belgian architecture.

   Pourquoi y aller: Ideal for luxury window shopping, chocolate buying, and sheltering from unpredictable Belgian rain.

   Conseil: Head here in the mid-afternoon for a traditional Belgian waffle and hot chocolate at one of the historic tea rooms.

   ShoppingLuxeHistoire

3. 3. Atomium

   Built for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, this iconic structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Five of its nine stainless steel spheres are open to the public, featuring permanent and temporary exhibitions alongside panoramic viewpoints over the city. A high-speed lift takes visitors directly to the top sphere, which houses a restaurant and observation deck.

   Pourquoi y aller: It offers one of the most unusual architectural profiles in Europe and unmatched aerial views of northern Brussels.

   Conseil: Book your entry ticket online in advance to skip the main queue at the base of the structure.

   Pour toute la familleHistoireActivités en extérieur

4. 4. Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

   This sprawling museum complex near the Royal Palace encompasses several distinct collections, including the Oldmasters Museum and the Magritte Museum. Together, they house thousands of works spanning from the 15th century to the present day, with masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and René Magritte. It provides an extensive overview of Low Countries art history under one roof.

   Pourquoi y aller: Essential for art enthusiasts wishing to see classic Flemish masters alongside world-famous Surrealist paintings.

   Conseil: Allocate at least three hours if you plan to visit both the Oldmasters section and the dedicated Magritte Museum.

   HistoirePour toute la famille

5. 5. Mont des Arts (Kunstberg)

   Situated on an incline connecting the lower and upper parts of the city, Mont des Arts features a manicured urban garden framed by major cultural institutions. The elevated platform at the top provides a famous vista looking down toward the spire of the Grand Place Town Hall. It is a popular gathering place for locals and visitors, especially during sunset.

   Pourquoi y aller: It delivers one of the most photographed panoramic urban views in Brussels without requiring an entry fee.

   Conseil: Arrive shortly before sunset to watch the light change over the lower city spires.

   Petit budgetActivités en extérieurHistoire

6. 6. Les Marolles and Place du Jeu de Balle

   Les Marolles is a traditional neighbourhood known for its bohemian charm, antique shops, and lively beer halls. At its centre, Place du Jeu de Balle hosts a daily open-air flea market where vendors trade vintage clothes, old books, trinkets, and furniture. Wandering the surrounding narrow streets reveals colourful street murals and independent cafes.

   Pourquoi y aller: It offers a relaxed, authentic glimpse into local Brussels neighbourhood life away from standard tourist hubs.

   Conseil: Visit the market during the morning hours when vendor stalls are fully stocked and bargaining is most active.

   ShoppingPetit budgetGastronomie

7. 7. St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral

   Standing on Treurenberg Hill, this magnificent twin-towered church is Belgium's national cathedral and a prime example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. The interior features soaring vaulted ceilings, impressive 16th-century stained-glass windows, and an intricately carved oak pulpit. The site has hosted royal weddings and state ceremonies for centuries.

   Pourquoi y aller: It is a tranquil, historically significant sanctuary showcasing medieval Belgian craftsmanship.

   Conseil: Step inside during early afternoon to see sunlight cast vibrant colours through the stained-glass windows.

   HistoirePetit budget

8. 8. Cinquantenaire Park and Arcade

   Commissioned to mark 50 years of Belgian independence, this large public park is dominated by a grand triple archway. The surrounding complex houses the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, the Art & History Museum, and Autoworld. The surrounding lawns and tree-lined avenues are popular for jogging, picnics, and casual strolls.

   Pourquoi y aller: Perfect for travellers seeking a mix of outdoors, monumental architecture, and museum visits in one location.

   Conseil: Take the lift up to the terrace atop the triumphal arch for broad views across the park and the European Quarter.

   NatureActivités en extérieurHistoire

9. 9. Belgian Comic Strip Center

   Located inside a restored Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, this museum celebrates Belgium's rich comic book heritage. It tracks the creation of iconic characters like Tintin, the Smurfs, and Lucky Luke through original drawings, manuscripts, and interactive displays. The building itself is an architectural treasure featuring Horta's signature ironwork and glass ceilings.

   Pourquoi y aller: It combines classic Belgian pop culture with stunning early 20th-century Art Nouveau design.

   Conseil: Combine your visit with a self-guided walk along the city's Comic Book Route murals scattered across the city center.

   Pour toute la familleHistoireShopping

10. 10. Sainte-Catherine and Fish Market District

    Once the historic port of Brussels, the Sainte-Catherine neighbourhood is now renowned for its seafood restaurants, trendy boutiques, and lively public squares. Centred around the Church of Sainte-Catherine, the area hosts seasonal food stalls and outdoor dining terraces. It retains a distinct maritime heritage reflected in its culinary tradition.

    Pourquoi y aller: It is the premier district in Brussels for enjoying fresh seafood, craft beer, and outdoor dining.

    Conseil: Visit in the evening to experience the vibrant atmosphere when locals gather along the basin restaurants.

    GastronomieVie nocturneActivités en extérieur

11. 11. Sablon District

    The Sablon is an elegant neighbourhood split into two distinct squares: the Grand Sablon, famous for high-end antique dealers and master chocolatiers, and the Petit Sablon, a manicured garden enclosed by 48 bronze statues representing medieval guilds. The area is dominated by the Church of Our Lady of the Sablon, a fine example of late Gothic architecture.

    Pourquoi y aller: Ideal for an upscale afternoon of gallery browsing, chocolate tasting, and garden relaxation.

    Conseil: Browse the weekend antique market on the Grand Sablon for rare collectibles and vintage artwork.

    LuxeShoppingHistoire

12. 12. Villa Empain

    This restored Art Deco mansion in the leafy Ixelles district was built in the 1930s for Baron Louis Empain. Today, it operates as a cultural centre hosting contemporary art exhibitions that bridge Eastern and Western cultures. Visitors can tour the restored rooms, admire the sleek geometry and granite work, and stroll around the famous outdoor pool in the rear garden.

    Pourquoi y aller: A striking destination for design enthusiasts who appreciate Art Deco architecture and contemporary art exhibitions.

    Conseil: Check the exhibition schedule online before travelling, as displays rotate regularly throughout the year.

    HistoireLuxe

13. 13. Cantillon Brewery and Museum of the Gueuze

    Operating since 1900, Cantillon is one of the last traditional lambic breweries remaining in Brussels. The brewery uses wild airborne yeasts unique to the Zenne river valley to produce spontaneously fermented beers like Lambic, Gueuze, and Kriek. A self-guided tour takes visitors through original wooden vats, aging barrels, and copper kettles, ending with a tasting session.

    Pourquoi y aller: It offers an authentic, sensory look at historic Belgian brewing techniques that remain unchanged for a century.

    Conseil: Wear a warm jacket during winter visits, as the historic brewery premises are unheated to protect the fermentation process.

    GastronomieHistoire

14. 14. European Quarter and Parlamentarium

    The European Quarter is the administrative seat of the European Union, characterised by modern glass buildings and diplomatic offices. At its heart lies the Parlamentarium, an interactive visitor centre where guests can learn about the history of European integration and how the European Parliament functions. Nearby, the House of European History offers deeper historical context across several floors.

    Pourquoi y aller: Provides fascinating insight into modern European politics and governance through high-tech interactive displays.

    Conseil: Security screenings are required upon entry, so bring a valid photo ID and avoid travelling with large bags.

    HistoirePetit budgetPour toute la famille

15. 15. Bois de la Cambre

    Extending from the southern edge of Ixelles, this expansive public park was designed in the 1860s as an English landscape garden. It features an island-topped lake, winding paths, shaded woods, and wide open lawns that draw cyclists and picnickers. A small electric ferry carries visitors across the lake to a chalet restaurant on the central island.

    Pourquoi y aller: A scenic green escape for travellers looking to relax or exercise away from the urban centre.

    Conseil: Visit on Sundays when parts of the park road network are closed to motor vehicles and reserved for pedestrians.

    NatureActivités en extérieurPetit budget

16. 16. MIMA (Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art)

    Housed in a former brewery along the Canal de Charleroi in Molenbeek, MIMA focuses on street art, subcultures, and contemporary urban art forms. The multi-story venue presents rotating exhibitions featuring international painters, sculptors, and graphic artists who challenge traditional gallery boundaries. The top level offers broad views across the canal toward the city centre.

    Pourquoi y aller: Great for modern art lovers seeking a fresh, energetic contrast to the city's classic fine art museums.

    Conseil: Take a scenic walk along the canal path after your visit to explore the evolving industrial architecture of the neighbourhood.

    Petit budgetActivités en extérieurHistoire

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