Brussels is a city of contrasts—where historic buildings meet cutting-edge modernity. Known for its chocolate, beer, and waffles, the city offers a diverse cultural and culinary experience. The medieval heart of the city blends beautifully with contemporary flair.
Cost of Living (10)
Medium
Minimal List TL;DR
🎨Artistic Space
La PatinoireA unique cultural venue for art lovers
🎨Art Installation
AtomiumA symbol of Brussels and a unique architectural marvel
🍫Chocolatier
Pierre MarcoliniA high-end chocolatier known for exquisite handmade chocolates
🍽️Restaurant
Chez LéonA renowned eatery for traditional Belgian dishes
🍷Wine Bar
Le Wine BarA chic wine bar with an extensive selection
🍸Cocktail Bar
The PharmacyAn innovative cocktail bar with a unique theme
Places to See
Avenue du Parc Royal, 1
4.8
2
10 AM - 5 PM (Seasonal)
A hidden gem with stunning botanical displays
Avenue de la Libération, 11
4.8
Varies
Varies by event
A unique cultural venue for art lovers
Rue Brederode, 16
4.7
Free
10 AM - 5 PM (July - August)
The official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium
Avenue de la Renaissance
4.6
Free
Open 24 Hours
A beautiful park perfect for relaxation
Rue de la Régence, 3
4.6
10
10 AM - 6 PM
A museum focused on the works of the surrealist painter
Square de l'Atomium, 1
4.6
12
10 AM - 6 PM
A symbol of Brussels and a unique architectural marvel
Rue de la Bourse, 1
4.5
6
10 AM - 5 PM
A fascinating glimpse into medieval history
Rue de la Régence, 1
4.5
7
10 AM - 6 PM
Explore the remnants of a former royal palace
Must Visit:
Comic Strip Route, Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Brussels is home to the European Union headquarters and is renowned for its spectacular Art Nouveau architecture and quirky street art, making it a cultural hub.
Places to Eat
Rue des Minimes, 1
4.8
€€€
10 AM - 7 PM
A high-end chocolatier known for exquisite handmade chocolates
Rue de la Concorde, 8
4.8
€€€
12 PM - 2 PM, 7 PM - 10 PM
A refined dining experience with a seasonal menu
Rue Charles Buls, 14
4.7
€
9 AM - 7 PM
Famous for traditional speculoos and pastries
Get To:
Metro: De Brouckère
A charming bakery renowned for its sweet treats
Rue des Bouchers, 18
4.6
€€
12 PM - 11 PM
Famous for mussels and fries
Get To:
Metro: De Brouckère
A renowned eatery for traditional Belgian dishes
Must Try:
Mussels, Frites, Waffles, Chocolate
Places to Drink
Rue Gheude, 56
4.7
8
10 AM - 6 PM
A renowned brewery known for its lambic beer
Avenue Louise, 30
4.7
€€
5 PM - 12 AM
A chic wine bar with an extensive selection
Rue Antoine Bréart, 6
4.7
€€
12 PM - 11 PM
A craft brewery offering a wide selection of unique beers
Rue de l'Hôpital, 9
4.5
€€
5 PM - 2 AM
Stylish bar in a former pharmacy
Get To:
Metro: Gare Centrale
An innovative cocktail bar with a unique theme
Music / Dance:
Jazz, Electronic, Folk
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Government, Finance
Brussels
"Brussels—where chocolate and culture unite for a deliciously unforgettable experience."
Places to Shop
Place du Tanneur
4.6
Free
Saturdays only
Open-air market with local produce
Tip:
Local Product Seekers
A bustling market with fresh local goods
Rue de la Paix, 15
4.6
€€€
10 AM - 7 PM
A stylish concept store with curated finds
Avenue Louise, 35
4.5
Varies
10 AM - 6 PM
An artistic shop showcasing local talent
Rue de la Paix, 25
4.5
€
10 AM - 6 PM
A charming thrift store with a variety of vintage items
Luxury
For More Tips Read Further
Political Hub
world-class chocolate, charming medieval squares, and rich European history.
Manneken Pis, a small statue, is a national symbol
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is renowned for its mix of medieval and modern architecture, cozy neighborhoods, and rich cultural scene. Known for its historical significance and vibrant art scene, Brussels is a city where tradition meets progress. It’s famous for its quirky statues, including the iconic Manneken Pis, and stunning Art Nouveau buildings.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Brussels
Transportation
Extensive rail, trams, buses
City Overview
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s famous for chocolates, waffles, and beer.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Visit the Grand Place. Afternoon: Explore the Atomium. Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. - Day 2: Morning: Visit the Royal Palace. Afternoon: Explore the European Parliament. Evening: Attend a local music event. - Day 3: Morning: Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Afternoon: Explore local markets. Evening: Enjoy the nightlife in the city center.
Current Trends
- Culinary trends: Rise in artisanal chocolates and local food experiences. - Cultural events: Growing focus on music and arts festivals. - Tech innovations: Use of digital platforms for
Local Events Guide
- Brussels Flower Carpet (August): Celebrating floral artistry in the Grand Place. - Brussels Jazz Festival (January): Showcasing local and international jazz musicians. - Belgian Beer Weekend (September): Celebrating the country’s brewing culture.
Local Insider Tips
- Explore the Grand Place and Atomium. - Enjoy local delicacies like Belgian chocolates and waffles. - Visit the Magritte Museum for contemporary art.
Sustainable Travel
- Sustainable initiatives: Focus on eco-friendly transportation and urban greening. - Community engagement: Supporting local artists and businesses. - Eco-friendly practices: Increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
Sign below for Fresh Updates
We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.
Unlock the Hidden Side:
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
More Cities to Visit:
Local Chicago
Vibe:
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Tip:
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
5-28°C
Moderate
US Dollar (USD) $
Equestrian
Vibe:
Home to the Kentucky Horse Park and thoroughbred races
Tip:
Lexington is the heart of Kentucky’s horse-racing tradition, offering unparalleled access to the world of thoroughbred breeding and racing. The city is surrounded by scenic Bluegrass Country, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities. As one of the world’s foremost destinations for equestrian events, Lexington draws both seasoned horse racing fans and newcomers alike. Additionally, the city is rich in bourbon heritage, offering tours of distilleries that produce some of the finest whiskey in the world.
Hidden Hamburg
Vibe:
Hamburg has more bridges than any other city in the world, even more than Amsterdam and Venice combined.
Tip:
Hamburg is a major port city with a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Visitors can explore the city's impressive harbor, famous Speicherstadt district, and rich maritime heritage. From the lively nightlife in the St. Pauli district to the world-class museums and art galleries, Hamburg offers a variety of experiences for visitors of all tastes. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Hamburg has something to offer.
10-35°C
High
US Dollar (USD) $
Cosmic
Vibe:
Home to NASA's Johnson Space Center
Tip:
Houston is a bustling metropolis where innovation meets diversity. Known for its rich history in space exploration, it also offers visitors a range of cultural experiences from art galleries and world-class museums to unique dining experiences. This city’s multicultural environment allows for a fusion of Southern comfort food, international cuisines, and diverse musical genres, including jazz and blues, making it a must-see for both foodies and music lovers.
Unseen Vienna
Vibe:
Vienna has a rich tradition of coffeehouse culture, with many establishments dating back centuries.
Tip:
Vienna is a city where grandeur and tradition are beautifully intertwined. Its coffeehouses, with their rich cultural history, are perfect places to relax and enjoy Austrian pastries. The city’s classical music heritage, reflected in the Vienna State Opera, ensures that music lovers will be in paradise. Vienna’s artistic legacy, including its stunning palaces and museums, offers a wealth of experiences for culture seekers.
4-28°C
Moderate
US Dollar (USD) $
Academic
Vibe:
Home to Ohio State University, major business hub
Tip:
Columbus is a city in the midst of growth, offering a rich cultural landscape with numerous museums, parks, and theaters. The presence of Ohio State University brings an energetic vibe to the city, which is reflected in its ever-evolving food scene, music venues, and arts programs. Known for its eclectic mix of modern and historical attractions, Columbus also draws visitors with its diverse green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and dynamic local events. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the city offers something for everyone.
