What to do? Where to go?

Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff or a foodie, there is something to do for everyone. Here are our recommendations to fall in love with the city!

  • A simple ‘bonjour’ or ‘hello’ when entering any establishment will go a long way. People will appreciate you honoring this custom and greet you joyfully!

  • Let's start with food because 'hangry' is not on the menu.

  • Belgian Dishes: if you're looking to try some local fare, you may consider mussels and fries, Flemish beef stew or chicken waterzooi.

  • Chocolate... We don't need to say more. To experience the best chocolate in the world, Pierre Marcolini is the one. If you're looking for a more artisanal touch, you can't go wrong with Elisabeth.

  • Real Belgian Waffles. You simply cannot leave without trying them. Liège style is best, no need for toppings but we're not going to stop you. You'll find a lot of mini vans offering them around the city, they're the best no frills option.

  • For the lovers of beer, there are hundreds of choices. A go to favorite of ours is Tripel Karmeliet. We'll let you discover yours.

  • Belgians eat their fries with mayonnaise. Try it, mayo tastes different there. Oh, and fries are originally Belgian, not French!

Activities

  • Head to the historical center of the city, the Grand Place is full of gothic architecture and little surprises for you to discover.

  • A little (or big) dose of Art: the Place Royale has a multitude of museums for you to see, like the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, Musée Magritte (our favorite artist), Musical Instruments Museum, etc...

  • Do you love old stuff? Discover the flea market at Les Marolles, vintage thrift shops along Rue Haute or Antiques shops at the Sablon area.

  • Check out what's showing at the Atomium. What is it? A giant stainless steel atom, particles are connected by escalators where art exhibitions are held yearly. Enjoy a bite or a drink at the restaurant at the top with panoramic views of the city.

  • Carry cash, arrive early and bargain if you’re planning to check out the flea markets.

Little corners, local gems.

  • A hidden pocket park

    La Fabrique en Ville situated in Egmont Park is a restaurant café with outdoor seating. It’s a perfect stop for brunch or a quiet getaway to enjoy a café gourmand.

  • Restaurants with authentic food

    Les Brassins in Ixelles has delicious Belgian delicacies where locals dine. C’est bon C’est Belge is another good one located in the charming little street of Rollebeek.

  • A patisserie shop

    Renard Bakery is a cute and quaint little bakery with countless pastries, breads, viennoiserie and desserts to satisfy any sweet tooth. They unfortunately don’t have a place to sit but fortunately, they’re located next to Place Fernand Cocq where you can enjoy your treats in an outdoor setting.

  • A bar

    Supra Bailly is a casual nice bar located in Rue du Bailli. Ask them what’s on tap or tell them what kind of beer you like and they’ll sure recommend you a good fit. If you like fruity beers, a pêcheresse will hit the spot.

  • Audrey Hepburn

    Well, if you didn’t know… Audrey Hepburn was born in Ixelles, Brussels. Just down the street from Les Brassins on Keyenveld street you’ll find the icon’s birthplace. Sadly, the building is a privately owned residence so don’t break in! But you can take a cool photo next to this placard.

  • A sandwich

    Tonton Garby near Grand Place is a small sandwich shop owned by two brothers. They tailor every baguette garnie to the customer but be ready for quite the wait. If you’re not up for standing in line, for what might be hours, you can check out JeanBon in Rue de Namur for faster, good quality sammies.