Cart is empty There are some places that I have traveled to that still remains fresh in my memory and Belgium is one of them. My journey makes for a cherishing tale to tell; Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. I decided to explore in the luxuries offered by the center of European culture. Did I love it? Well, I can’t wait to book a trip again to savor the greenery and rich cuisine experience of this historic destination.
One thing that will hit you first about Brussels is that it is very unassuming. One side has a countryside green, lush feel with flower markets, and the other side is throbbing with cosmopolitan cafes and bars to make you drink and swing. It is an ironical place where hip meets history; confidence meets humility, waiting for you to be embraced in its multi-layered cultural. Brussels has a population of approximately 1.4 million people with French and Dutch being the prime languages spoken.
The architecture of the city will leave you spellbound. Medieval Grand-Place is indeed a grand square to take a stroll or just sit to absorb the everyday life of Brussels. I enjoyed a relaxing walk in one of the parks where I experienced the beautiful arts and sculptures. An unmistakable feat in the architectural history is the ‘Atomium’, which is the star attraction for all visitors to Brussels. The iron crystal hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions throughout its web of tubes and spheres. The famous art nouveau era is depicted in many of the late 17th century art structures and 19th century regal mansions, which form the perfect backdrop for your holiday selfies.
What to do in Brussels:
There are tons of things to do when you are in Brussels as there is something for everyone.
Museum world to inspire – Brussels boasts more than 100 museums of all shapes and sizes, making it a discovery of sorts for you. It doesn’t matter if you like the classical ones or prefer the scientific quirky treasures, and the city has it all. For the car buffs, Auto world is the place to be while those who prefer fine arts can indulge at Horta, Bozar and Royal Museum of Fine Arts. For the people who can’t think beyond chocolates and beer when in Belgium, there are quaint small museums of Cocoa and beer breweries too.
Comic strips become reality – A walk along the comic strip route, brings back memories of famous characters like Tintin, Lucky Luke, Gaston and Gil Jourdan. The path has more than 50 mural paintings and can also be enjoyed with a 2 hour bike ride.
Food lovers’ paradise – Belgians love to eat out on a footpath, especially if the weather is promising. Mussels and fries are the classics that you will find on any restaurant menu. Visitors with a sweet tooth are in for a great treat as Belgian chocolates and waffles are yet to find a match elsewhere. Waffles dusted with powdered sugar or topped with bananas, ice cream, and whipped cream will make you go bonkers with its aroma and flavors. You can get some free chocolate tasting at the entrance of shops. I think I gained about 10 pounds (5 kilos) eating Belgian Waffles.
Beers – Brussels is wired with beer given that you can choose from over 400 varieties and drink to your heart’s content. Not a fan of beer? Worry not. You can even find fruit flavors like peach and cherry to give your palate a beer twist. St Gery’s clubs and bars are packed all year round.
Amusing Walks – Most sightseeing destinations are within reasonable distance, making it easy for you just to walk around. Right from walks to markets and museums, comic strips, and European Union walk, green trails and visiting monuments on foot, allow you to feel Brussels at your own speed in your own sweet time. My hotel was located close to the parks so I enjoyed a 20 minute walk to the park.
Shopping Time – Brussels has some of the oldest shopping malls in the world with best luxury brands. Boutique shops along the shopping streets and Brussels Markets are also worth visit to satisfy the shopper in you. Try shopping on weekdays if you are buying stuff from local shops as Saturdays are too busy and Sundays they keep closed.
Visit Bruges – If you are a fan of fairy tales, then you can also take a mini trip to Bruges, the largest city of West Flanders in the Flemish region of Belgium. Set against the medieval town, with picturesque cobbled lanes, dreamy canals with swans, rising towers, and attractive market squares, Bruges is sure to charm all tourist types. If you have time at hand stay overnight to enjoy, the evening floodlighting. You can soak the beauty of churches, belfry and cathedrals by taking a water taxi along the different canals. There are daily trains between Brussels and Bruges every hour during the day. Tickets can be purchased at the station without any prior seat reservation, and it takes approx. A 1-hour train ride from Brussels Midi station to Bruges train station. While in Bruges, I enjoyed riding in a water taxi and explored the town. I had an amazing experience!
Accommodation and Travel
Compared to Paris and London, Brussels offers one of the best hotels at excellent rates. You have some great choices in the form of airport hotels, hostels, budget hotels and apartments available. Most of them are within a safe distance from the main city attractions. The budget hotels or hostels should be chosen wisely in terms of location and hygiene. I stayed at a fantastic hotel for about $65 per night with a gym and even a washer to do my laundry after traveling for a couple days. For the budgeted traveler, a good Hostels will cost you around $35.
Another option includes mid-range hotels costing anywhere $80 and up depending upon the amenities and travel convenience. If you are in a mood to splurge, with desires of spacious rooms, sauna or fitness center is ready to spend $135 and up per night.
Due to its central location, Brussels is easily reachable by air, train, bus, car or even a ferry. I took the train from the international airport to the closest train station and then dragged my suitcase to the hotel. Domestic trains run through 3 main stations Bruxelles – Nord, Midi, and Central. There are high-speed trains operated by Eurostar and Thalys, which will take you to London or Paris. There are tons of direct and connecting flights to Brussels Airport from all over the world. It is a 1-hour journey from London, Frankfurt and Amsterdam. An interesting alternative to flights is a combination of the ferry with connecting train, bus or car. I flew from London Gatwick Airport.
Quick Tip – Brussels Card, which is available online as well as at most of the tourist centers in Brussels, will save you a lot of hard work. One purchase gives you access to 30 museums, discounts at tourist attractions, shops and restaurants/bars and even free rides on the Hop on Hop off buses. The card can be used for 1 to 3 days depending on your need.