Brussels, Belgium
Welcome to Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium and the European Union. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine, Brussels offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to explore a beautiful city, Brussels won't disappoint.
This is a city that we had no enthusiasm for at first, and added as an afterthought to an itinerary filled with more storied and exciting locations. But Brussels sprouted from the the dirt into which we had cast it and grew into a beautiful flower of a memory that we look back on with great amusement, and we plan to visit again one day.
A Brief History of Brussels
Brussels' history dates back to the 10th, it grew from a small fortress town into a significant city, playing a pivotal role in European politics especially in the wake of WW2. The city has been influenced by various powers, including the Spanish, Austrians, German, French, and Dutch, before becoming the capital of the newly independent Belgium in 1830. Belgium has three official languages; Dutch, French, and German. In multicultural Brussels you will hear Flemish, English, and more. Today Brussels stands as a bustling metropolis, renowned for its historical sites and as the administrative center of the European Union.
The architecture of Brussels is a visual history marking the various cultural influences left on the city. The city is renowned for its Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles, each leaving a distinct mark on its urban landscape. The Grand Place is a perfect example of Gothic and Baroque grandeur, with its opulent guildhalls and the iconic Town Hall. Meanwhile, the Art Nouveau movement is beautifully represented in the works of architect Victor Horta, whose designs like the Horta Museum are celebrated for their innovative use of natural forms and structures. The cityscape also features contemporary architecture, such as the Atomium, a modernist marvel from the 1958 World's Fair. This unique blend of historical and modern elements makes Brussels a captivating destination for architecture enthusiasts.
How to Get Around
In Brussels, we walked. Everywhere. But you don’t have to! As in so many other European cities there is excellent public transportation. For convenience, you may want to purchase what is called a BRUPASS. The BRUPASS is for an individual traveler and grants access to buses, trams, trains, and the metro in the Brussels Capital Zone. You will need a physical, plastic, MOBIB card which will serve as your pass onto Brussels transportation. Purchase a MOBIB card for BRUPASS, or single use tickets if you’re only in town for a day or two, at ticket offices and kiosks at the train or metro stations.
Follow this link or the one above for additional information on Belgium’s state transportation site. Once you know how, it’s very easy to use and get around. We love Belgium’s train system for its ease of use, once you are accustomed to it, even without speaking one of the official languages. Note: for trips outside of the Capital Zone (Brussels city proper) there is a BRUPASS XL. Where you’re going, where you’re coming from, and how long you’re staying will all factor in to which ticket options are most cost effective, so do a little research before purchasing.
BRUPASS is a great option because transportation in Brussels is operated by several companies that operate in different languages, making the acronyms and names, as well as the actual use of transportation confusing. BRUPASS cuts through a lot of this confusion by using a single method of payment for multiple companies.
Don’t want to take public transportation, but want to go faster than your own two legs can take you? Rent a bike! There are plenty of places that will rent you a bike, just whip out that smart phone and take a look around your accommodations. Most places rent by the hour though by the day may be available.
We do not suggest renting a car in Brussels. Gas can be hard to find, expensive, and parking is… not fun. Renting a car is superfluous when there are so many other ways to get around and spend less money. Uber and similar apps/companies are available. Uber has an on/off relationship with Belgium, and Brussels, though they still operate there to the best of our knowledge.
Whether you arrive at the airport (BRU) or by train to Gare du Midi, you’re going to want to head downtown and start doing what you came to do. There is a vibrant and fun culture in Brussels.
Where to Go and What to Do
1. The Manneken Pis is a delightfully deranged, little fountain statue of a small boy relieving himself. Very popular with tourists, there is constantly a crowd around him, taking pictures and gawking, and he even has his own line of merchandise which you can find in many of the shops around the city. A neat feature of the notorious statue is that the city dresses it up in different costumes from time to time. When we visited, the lad was attired as a beekeeper, though he still had the freedom to take his ease if you know what we mean.
Mannekin Pis has two other matching fountains in the city. Jeaneke Pis and Het Zinneke, or Zinneke Pis, are fountain statues of a girl and a dog respectively. Zinneke is a play on words as it is a word used for stray dogs and a slang term for the people of Brussels. Though less popular, these two are still notable and worth the walk to see.
2. The Triumphal Arch or the Monument du Cinquantenaire in the Parc du Cinquantenaire is an awesome sight to behold. A massive construct to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence was began in 1880 and completed in 1905, on the 75th anniversary. It is truly a magnificent and massive monument. It also serves a further purpose of housing several organizations. The Royal Army and Military History Museum, the Royal Art Museum, and Autoworld.
3. The Grand Place is a large square near the center of the city that dates in part back to the 14th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its boundaries are formed of large, ornamented buildings and former guildhalls that combine different architectural styles. At night in December, the square is lit by Christmas lights and a Christmas tree and there is music playing. Large crowds gather to take in the pleasant plaza year round.
4. The Royal Palace of Brussels is an administrative center for the monarchy, as Belgium is still nominally ruled by a king. The royal family does not live at the Palace in Brussels, they only have offices there. It is possible to visit and tour the palace for a short period in summer, usually July-August, and there is no charge at this time. You do need to book your visit ahead of time, but you can always walk by and view the Palace from the street.
5. The Atomium was originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, and this unique structure provides panoramic views of the city from its spheres.
6. The Magritte Museum is dedicated to the surrealist artist René Magritte, and museum is a treat for art lovers.
Sports
There are several popular, professional sports teams in Brussels, but there is no more popular sport than soccer, and the biggest team around is R.S.C. Anderlecht, who play in the Belgian Pro League, also called the Jupiler Pro League. Other professional sports include basketball and rugby, but they garner far less attention than football.