When people visit Belgium, most likely they will be making a stop in Brussels. There are lots of things to do in Brussels, I mean hey, it’s the capital!
This guide will highlight the best of the best of Brussels! You'll find the top 3 chocolate shops 🍫, things to do 👩🏼🍳, places to see 🏛️, foods to try 🍟, and places to stay 🏨 - making it perfect for a first-time visitor to Brussels!
If you want to visit a more underrated, fairytale town in Belgium, save this guide and check out my Day Trip Guide to Bruges! ✨
Belgian chocolates can get expensive if you don't know where to go. AVOID Leonidas, I have since learned that they are no longer authentic chocolates and cater to tourists.
Galler on the other hand are AMAZING and authentic chocolates that are really reasonably priced! They've become another go-to of mine whenever we are in Brussels!
This is another great option for authentic Belgian chocolates! They have been around since 1919 and originated in Brussels. This shop is more expensive than Galler but you'll know the quality is amazing!
Another great quality authentic Belgian chocolate shop is Neuhaus which is the oldest shop on this list - they've been around since 1857!
Fun fact: they are the inventor of the Belgian Praline - which is essentially chocolate with a filling inside!
Although a bit out of the city center, Atomium is one of the most iconic things to do in Brussels. It is a large structure that resembles an atom and provides an excellent panoramic view. It was designed for the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958 and has stayed ever since.
This is a temporary exhibition that will be around until January 7th 2024!
It is one of the most fun and interesting exhibitions I've ever been to and the message is amazing! It is all about how art makes us happy. The exhibition explores ways to manage anxieties and stress through art and color in the most unexpected ways.
Highly recommend going before it closes!
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Chocolate class;
One of my most memorable experiences in Belgium to date has been a chocolate-making class! We spent 2.5 hours learning how to make 30 Belgian chocolates, that we got to take home at the end of the lesson. Below is a link to the exact class we booked! 👇🏻
This is probably one of my favorite squares in Europe! It is so incredibly ornate and detailed with gold highlights around the entire square, it's really beautiful! And is one of my favorite photo spots in the city!
Why do we care about this little statue? It was designed in 1388 but there are many legends about the statue that have been introduced over the years. Most are surrounding the idea that the statue or boy the statue represents has saved Brussels, either from a fire or in battle.
Fun fact: this statue has a wardrobe of 1,000 costumes that is on display in the Brussels City Museum in the Grand Place
This arcade is a covered shopping street that has been around since the 1830s and is another wonderful photo spot in Brussels! It has a beautiful, glass roof and is lined with stunning storefronts of some rather luxurious spots. I always come here to window shop the different chocolatiers!
Of course, waffles are a Belgian specialty! But what I learned on a recent visit to Brussels is that there are Brussels waffles and Belgian waffles. Belgian waffles are the most common, they are smaller and thicker. But a Brussels waffle is larger, has a crispier exterior, and a very light, airy interior. They are really good!
This spot here isn't anything too special but it is my go-to to enjoy the famous Brussels waffles whenever I am visiting!
Fries are another Belgian specialty! Friteland is what they call a friterie, a place where they sell fries and other fast food treats such as fricadelle.
One of my best advice for you when visiting a friterie is to be adventurous and try some of the sauces! They have so many - my personal is the Hannibal sauce!
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Beer:
You can find pubs all around the city where you can get a taste of the famous Belgian beer. If you're interested, below you can find a beer-tasting experience to try the next time you're in Brussels!
Disclosure: When you click "Check Prices", I earn a small commission when you book through Thatch, at no extra cost to you, which helps support my work. Thank you!!!
This hotel has:
10-minute walk to the Grand Place
-airconditioning & heating
-a sustainable travel rating of 2
-9.0 rating on Booking.com
-private parking available
This hotel has:
-airconditioning & heating
-an elevator
-8.9 rating on booking.com
-restaurant and balcony
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I hope you enjoy your little day trip to Belgium! If you would like to read more about what to do in Brussels or other spots in Belgium, you can check out my blog below! 👇🏻
I highly recommend escaping the big city in Belgium and exploring the smaller, fairytale town of Bruges! It is an extremely easy day trip from either Lille OR Brussels and its worth the visit I promise!
You can check out 20 different spots around the town in the day trip guide below! ✨
*Disclosure: This guide uses affiliate links. If you click on a link, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the efforts to continue providing valuable content. Thank you!
Planning on visiting France as well?
I consider France to be my area of expertise. I've lived here for 2 years and have traveled around many times to many regions! I would love to help you with your trip planning - let's make the most out of your trip!
you know where you want to go but cannot commit the time to planning and researching the logistical details. You can choose whether you want an in-depth itinerary or a trip outline!
you want to chat face-to-face with someone who has lived in Europe for 4 years and can give you advice, tips, or even feedback on your itinerary. We can talk about everything and anything you need help with!
I’m a seasoned traveler with experience in over 30 countries around the world, who’s been lucky enough to have lived in both France & the UK. Now I love helping travelers make the most of their trips and explore more underrated corners of France & the UK!
My goal is to not overwhelm you with options— in my guides & itineraries, I provide suggestions that are truly worth it, based on personal experience or in-depth research.
Whether you’re planning a dream trip to France, the UK, or beyond, I hope I can help you plan your next adventure! ✨
My expertise?
🇫🇷 On top of living in Lille, France for 2 years, my French fiancee has helped me develop a passion for this country beyond a typical tourist. Over the past 8 years, I’ve explored France from north to south: I’ve visited Paris 9 times, road-tripped through Normandy twice, & fell in love with Alsace. I’ve spent time castle-hopping in the Loire Valley, beach-hopping in Corsica, & explored Provence & the French Riviera multiple times. Bordeaux has become a second home, with over 10 visits to the region.
🇬🇧 I lived in London, UK for 2 years, mostly during the pandemic, when I really got to know the city in depth - since we couldn't go anywhere else! Beyond London, I’ve road-tripped through Scotland twice, explored gems like York and Liverpool, road-tripped through Cornwall & enjoyed countless day trips, from charming villages to coastal towns.
Why trust me?
🌍 Lived & traveled: I’ve called both France and the UK home, giving me insider knowledge and plenty of travel experience!
✈️ 20+ European countries: My travel experience spans the continent, so I know how to navigate Europe and want to help others do the same.
🧳 Organized, detailed & thoughtful: My itineraries focus on making the most of your time & budget, blending structure with room for spontaneity.
🥐 Foodie at heart: Food is also a huge part of my travels, & I make it a point to seek out the best local dishes & restaurants wherever I go.
