Brussels’ magnificent Grand Place is one of the world’s most unforgettable urban ensembles. Oddly hidden, the enclosed cobblestone square is only revealed as you enter on foot from one of six narrow side alleys: Rue des Harengs is the best first approach. The focal point is the spired 15th-century city hall, but each of the antique guildhalls (mostly 1697–1705) has a charm of its own. Most are unashamed exhibitionists, with fine baroque gables, gilded statues and elaborate guild symbols..
Like Belgium, Brussels has many faces... and almost all are under appreciated. Most tourists flit into Brussels for a quick photo of a urinating lad and a hop into a chocolate shop. If you stay in Brussels for more than a moment, you’ll find a rich metropolis where street art dominates cityscapes, Art Nouveau flirts with façades, and proud locals effortlessly switch languages. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own tale to tell, but there are too many to see .
In Brussels, savour other typical dishes and local produce: the famous mussels and chips, grilled endive, vol-au-vent, américain (a Belgian take on beef tartare), tomato and shrimp... Enjoy a pistolet, a small round bread with a golden crust and a soft crumb. At Pistolet Original, it’s their speciality and they offer a range of little sandwiches inspired by local dishes: américain, white pudding, chicory, tomatoes and prawns, with Liège syrup….
Belgium is a bicycle-loving country, and pedal enthusiasts fill Brussels' bike lanes. Cyclists have to stop at lights–and should, for safety reasons–but since bikes can easily bypass queues of traffic, cycling is still a fast way to travel around the city. If you come to Brussels on the Eurostar, folding bikes can be carried (in a bag) even if you can't secure a space for a full-sized bike..
Brussels is a city steeped in history, with stunning medieval and Art Nouveau architecture..
Brussels is famous for its gourmet offerings, from luxurious chocolates to world-class beer.
The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe..
The best of Brussels