Bruxelles City Guide

Famous for its tempting chocolates and delightful Belgian beers, Brussels is a treat to visit. Take the time to explore and discover the hidden treasures of this city – stroll the narrow alleys of Brussels, admire fairy-tale palaces, challenge your knowledge at one of the city’s numerous museums or simply enjoy a night of live music at a local bar. Rent your Brussels holiday apartment and stay closer to the city’s hidden gems.

Long overlooked as a European tourist capital due to the glittering allure of cities such as London, Paris and Berlin, Bruxelles (also known as Brussels) offers a cornucopia of delights to visitors. With picturesque medieval streets; fine food; a friendly atmosphere derived from a blend of French and Flemish cultures; an avid art scene; beautiful parks; and bustling energy from being the host of many of the European Union’s government and industrial centers, Brussels beckons travelers.

Brussels, the largest city and capital of Belgium, has grown from a 10^th century Flemish fortress town to a city of over a million people, and yet it retains the charm of a city steeped in history. After the turbulence of WWII, in which much of Belgium became a battlefield, Brussels has played host to a number of international institutions, including much of the EU’s administrative centers and NATO.

A gourmand’s paradise

Bruxelles is renowned for its culinary fare and those who love to dine will cherish a visit to this city devoted to fine food. While one can certainly partake of the menus found in the numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, Belgians also enjoy high-quality food in cafes, taverns and from street vendors. A favored street food is the justifiably famous Belgian mussels: people enjoy them as they stroll the cobblestoned boulevards. Or tuck into a café to have Belgian frites with a hearty steak. Many Belgians cook these fried potatoes in duck fat for an especially succulent treat. Waffles are served with a wide choice of toppings, and are a tourist treat. No matter what your budget, you’ll eat well, and very happily, in Belgium.

Don’t forget the chocolate and the beer!

Belgian chocolates are celebrated the world over, and master chocolatiers outdo themselves to provide patrons with the highest quality sweets. With over 2,100 chocolate shops, Belgians produce 172,000 tons of chocolate a year. That’s enough to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Belgians are also passionate about their beer, and they craft over 400 types of beer, in many varieties, strengths and flavors. Of particular delight to many beer aficionados are the beers made by Trappist monks; stop into a tavern and enjoy a wide selection.

Get some fresh air

When the weather is fine, locals love to be out in the any number of Brussels’ fine parks, and visitors are missing out if they don’t do the same. With walking paths, playgrounds, architectural and historical features, and gorgeous scenery, you can’t go wrong by spending some time out with the people of Brussels. Jubelpark also contains several museums, such as the car museum, an art museum and the history museum, making it a popular destination. Like many cities in Europe, Brussels offers bicycles for rent, and cycling through the parks is a favored way to get around.

Brussels is also home to many outdoor markets, from food markets to flea markets. Popular with the locals, they are also enjoyed by visitors looking to make up a picnic lunch or find a treasure to take home as a souvenir.

A cultural delight

Brussels is home to over 80 museums, from fine art to contemporary, an innovative science museum and center, a military history museum and a music museum; all of these and more are sure to delight those who love an active cultural life.   

Brussels is also host to a large number of plays, operas, symphonies and festivals throughout the year. When planning a trip, be sure to check the city’s activity calendar to work in events you want to attend.

Take the time to explore historic monuments and buildings such as the Grand Palace, Laken Castle, and the large cathedral named for the city’s patron saints, St. Michael and St. Gudula. While the Royal Palace was built in more modern times, it is still and interesting and grand structure. 

Take a day trip

Due to Belgium’s small size and location, and with the use of the train system, taking day trips to nearby sites is easy and affordable. Visit Waterloo and consider the battle that changed the course of European history forever. A side trip into Bruges is also popular with many travelers; much of town’s structures, dating from the 13^th and 14^th centuries, are intact and have been preserved. Another nearby destination is Ghent, for much of its history one of the wealthiest cities in northern Europe.

Lodgings

While there are many fine hotels and quaint bed and breakfasts in Brussels, one of the best ways to stay in the city is to take advantage of apartment rentals or holiday apartments. Having a home away from home can add relaxation and peace to your trip. Let World Escape help you find the perfect place for you to stay on your holiday.

Brussels Holiday Rentals

Some people only admire the fantastical Brussels architecture and the exquisitely ornamented houses while walking past them. You can live in one! Our collection of Brussels holiday rentals features properties hand-picked for their modern amenities and distinctive features.

Forget about paying for overpriced hotel services. With a range of modern cons, such as fully-equipped kitchen, laundry, digital entertainment, various appliances and utilities, you will have all of your day-to-day needs sorted out at no extra cost. Enjoy comfort,  style and convenience while in Brussels.

Brussels Group Accommodation

Brussels is a destination that is just about perfect for any occasion, be it a romantic escape for two, a family holiday with the kids or a city break with a group of friends. Our collection of Brussels holiday rentals offers travellers a choice of accommodations in different price ranges and in different areas of the city.

Rent an apartment in the heart of Brussels and you have the best shops and bars at your doorstep or pick a holiday home near iconic attractions and museums, so you can do sightseeing without having to waste precious time in trying to find your way around.

Take a tour of the futuristic Atomium, stroll the exotic Royal Botanic Gardens or simply sip a coffee at the picture-postcard Grand Palace, one of the most picturesque squares in the world.

A Brussels holiday can be a true treat. Both young and old visitors will be tempted by the hundreds of chocolates sold at every corner, while to travellers of legal age, sampling the variety of excellent local beers is an absolute must.

Staying at your own home away from home will reduce the hassle and stress of your journey, so you can just relax and focus on making the most of your visit and time together with loved ones.

Take your pick from our collection of beautiful holiday homes and indulge in an unforgettable stay.