Top 10 Must Visit Destinations in Brussels

With stops at famous landmarks like the Grand Place and hidden gems like Place du Petit Sablon, this walking experience offers an unforgettable exploration of Brussels' charm and beauty.

Meet at the Charles Puls Fountain in the heart of Brussels and begin the experience by exploring the handicraft market. At least if you visit from Fridays to Sundays. Only on these days (and on public holidays) is the market open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is a great place to see local artisans at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs with lots of character.

In booths decorated with the city's colors, you can find jewelry, ceramics, illustrations, animal sculptures, candles, and perfumes. Many of the vendors are eager to share the stories behind their creations, offering insight into their creative processes and the inspirations behind their work. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir, an exquisite gift, or simply an enriching cultural experience, the Arts and Craft Market in Brussels is a must-visit. 

A short walk will bring you to the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a stunning glass-roofed shopping arcade built in 1847. It is one of the oldest in Europe. You can explore luxurious shops, chocolatiers, and cafes. Don't miss the opportunity to grab a coffee and a famous Belgian chocolate. We particularly recommend the chocolate mousse from Neuhaus Chocolates. Every spoonful really is a heavenly experience for the taste buds.

Walk to Brussels's central square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the opulent architecture of the Town Hall and the Guildhalls. Spend some time taking photos and soaking in the grandeur of one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

If you come by again and have a little more time, you can take a guided tour of the mighty town hall from the inside or visit the museum of the city of Brussels to learn about the city's history and geography. If you are more interested in beer, there is also a beer museum on the large square. 

A short walk from the Grand Place is the famous Manneken Pis statue. This small bronze statue of a boy urinating into a fountain is an iconic symbol of Brussels. Despite its modest size (standing just 61 cm tall), it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike. One of the most delightful aspects of Manneken Pis is his extensive wardrobe.

The statue is regularly dressed in different costumes. He has a collection of over 1,000 outfits, many of which are displayed in the City Museum (Maison du Roi). Outfits range from traditional Belgian garb to international costumes and even representations of various cultural and sporting figures. What outfit was he wearing this time?

The Poechenellkelder is an authentic cafe/bar near Manneken Pis. Take a break, enjoy a Belgian beer, and admire the eclectic interior filled with puppets and memorabilia. The cafe’s name, which translates to "The Puppeteer's Cellar," reflects its connection to the traditional Belgian art of puppetry. Poechenellekelder is celebrated for its extensive selection of Belgian beers. With over 100 varieties available, including many rare and specialty brews, it is a paradise for beer enthusiasts and a cozy spot to relax before continuing your tour. 

Shortly after the Poechenellkelder and on your way to Jardin du Monts des Arts, you will also pass a large Manneken Pis graffiti, which we found even more impressive than the original. 

If you visit Brussels on a Monday and Poechenellkelder is closed, you can also visit one of the many cafés and beer bars. If you prefer beer, perhaps "A la Mort Subite" or "Delirium" is something for you. If you'd rather enjoy a coffee, you can go to "Bouche Specialty Coffee" or "Corica." However, your guide will certainly be able to recommend something. 

Jardin du Mont des Arts is a beautifully landscaped garden that offers panoramic views of Brussels. The garden is situated on a hill, offering a picturesque vista that stretches from the Royal Palace to the Grand Place. This makes it an ideal spot for photography or simply taking in the beauty of the cityscape. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy the art installations, and capture the scenic views.

Furthermore, the garden is surrounded by several important cultural institutions, such as the Royal Library of Belgium, the Belgian Comic Strip Center, the Magritte Museum, and the Musical Instruments Museum. Located near the garden, at the Mont des Arts complex, is also the fascinating Carillon clock with 24 bells. The clock features 12 historical figures, each representing an important moment in Belgian history. The carillon plays a melody every hour, and the figures move in a charming display. 

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the palace itself is not the residence of the royal family, it is used for official functions. The king has his study here, receives guests, gives audiences, and so on.

From 21 July (national holiday) to September, the palace is also open to the public free of charge, offering a rare opportunity to explore its grand rooms and halls. Even if you don't come in the period mentioned. Enjoy the beautiful architecture from the outside, take some pictures, and visit the adjacent Parc de Bruxelles.

The next stop is Place du Petit Sablon, a small, elegant garden filled with beautiful flowers and fountains. It’s a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. But the highlight is the following. The garden is surrounded by 48 bronze statues representing various medieval guilds of Brussels, such as blacksmiths, weavers, and tailors.

These statues are finely detailed and provide a glimpse into the rich artisanal history of the city. At the center of the garden stands a monument dedicated to Counts Egmont and Hoorn, who were executed in 1568 for their resistance against Spanish rule. What many visitors might not know is the deeper historical context of these figures and their impact on Belgian history. The monument itself is rich in symbolism and worth examining closely.

Right beside the garden is the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon. It dates back to the 15th century and is known for its beautiful Baroque interior and historical significance. Take a moment to appreciate its architecture and peaceful ambiance.

Then stroll through the charming Sablon district, known for its antique shops and art galleries, and make a stop at Place du Grand Sablon. This vibrant square is also surrounded by cafes, famous chocolatiers, and restaurants. It's a great place to grab a snack or a coffee. Explore the shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

As you walk to the last stop of the tour, enjoy the view of the bustling city and its historic streets. The Palace of Justice is a massive building and one of the largest courthouses in the world. Its grandiose architecture and imposing presence make it a must-see. You can even visit the stunning inside for free (from Mon to Fri). For example, the main hall has towering columns and a vast open space. But also several courtrooms are open to the public, where visitors can observe legal proceedings.

Also, those courtrooms themselves are impressive, with high ceilings, detailed woodwork, and historical paintings. The Palace houses numerous artworks and sculptures, many of which depict themes of justice, law, and historical figures. Due to its elevated position on the Galgenberg Hill, the terrace in front of the palace offers a stunning view of Brussels. If you would like to enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Brussels and its surroundings, there is also a majestic Ferris wheel located near the Palace of Justice, called „The View“. 

If you are visiting Brussels at the weekend and the Palace of Justice is not open and you don't want to enjoy the view from the Ferris wheel, you can alternatively visit St. Michael and St. Gundula Cathedral and the Colonne du Congres (between locations 6 and 7). Or you can make a stop a little earlier at the Vismarkt/Fish Market (between stops 2 and 3). It all depends on your preferences. 

Enjoy the final leg of your journey back through the historic heart of Brussels and finish your tour were you started. Take this time to revisit the market, pick up any final souvenirs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square.