The St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral, also known as the Cathedrale des Sts Michel et Gudule, is Belgium's national church and a significant venue for royal ceremonies. This Gothic-style cathedral features two imposing symmetrical towers and houses remarkable works of art such as a Baroque carved wooden pulpit from 1699, 17th-century oak confessionals, decorative stained-glass windows, and the impressive Grenzing organ.
Parc de Bruxelles, also known as Brussels Park or the Royal Park, is a sprawling urban oasis that spans over 13 hectares. It is the oldest public park in Brussels and was built on the grounds of a former royal hunting ground. The park features a picturesque landscape with an array of trees including plane, chestnut, maple, beech, and trellised lime trees.
The Royal Palace of Brussels serves as the administrative residence and workplace for the Belgian royal family, although they do not live there. The palace, dating back to King Leopold II, boasts impressive reception rooms including the opulent Throne Room and the stunning Mirror Room adorned with a ceiling covered in jeweled scarab beetles. A recent renovation has left its exterior gleaming. Open for free tours from July to September, visitors can admire its historic architecture and exquisite decor.
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a captivating complex that showcases over 20,000 artistic works, making it an essential stop for art lovers exploring Brussels. This impressive ensemble consists of six museums, including the renowned Magritte Museum, which houses the largest collection of surrealist René Magritte's pieces. Visitors can delve into his unique perspective on art and life through more than 250 works.
The Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon, also known as Notre-Dame du Sablon, is a 15th-century Catholic church located in the historic Sablon district of Brussels. The church features a blend of architectural styles including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. It started as an archers guild chapel in 1304 and was later enlarged to accommodate pilgrims drawn by the healing powers attributed to its Madonna statue.
If you have time left — worth it too.
Come and explore the best of Indian cuisine at the fast-food restaurant Royal, located near Grote Markt in the heart of Brussels. Indulge in an Indian buffet, dessert, drink, and coffee or tea. Choose from a variety of dishes or try them all to let your taste buds journey through the rich Indian flavors. Additionally, Grote Markt is known as one of the coziest Grand Places in the world.
The European Parliament, the central institution of the European Union's political landscape, invites visitors to explore its workings through The Parlamentarium. This interactive center showcases the Parliament's multilingual nature and offers engaging displays that highlight its role in the EU's democratic system. Guided tours provide insights into the legislative body's functions and decision-making processes, while multimedia presentations delve into its history and impact on EU citizens' lives.
Abbaye de la Cambre, also known as Abdij Ter Kameren, is a historic Cistercian abbey in the Ixelles area of Brussels. The abbey complex includes a Catholic parish, a community of Norbertine canons, the National Geographic Institute, and La Cambre visual arts school. The picturesque gardens sprawl across multiple levels and are a highlight for visitors. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers quiet contemplation with its small church and terraced gardens.
The Musée bruxellois de la gueuze, located in the old Evere wind moulin, offers a traditional brewery experience with beer cellars and brewing equipment dating back to 1900. Visitors can embark on self-guided tours with informative guidebooks and explore various stages of the brewery at their own pace. The museum also hosts guided tours on Saturdays, offering insights into the brewing process from passionate hosts.
In the heart of Brussels, near Mont Des Arts, lies a must-visit attraction for chocolate lovers - the Belgian Chocolate Workshop. Visitors can indulge in various chocolate tours and workshops, including a popular session at Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier. Participants have raved about their experiences, from making their own chocolates with skilled instructors to trying their hand at crafting delicious Belgium waffles.
The Parlamentarium, located just outside the city center of Brussels, offers a deep dive into Europe's past and its influence on present-day Brussels. The visitors' center features multimedia exhibits that delve into the impact of World Wars on European politics and the development of the European Union. Visitors can explore the workings of this complex political institution for free at both the European Parliament and Parlamentarium. The high-tech and interactive museum allows virtual travel between EU countries to witness special collaborations fostered by the union.
Tour & Taxis, located on the Brussels Canal, is a unique and vibrant space that was once a freight station but has now been transformed into Gare Maritime. This expansive building hosts various activities, restaurants, and festivals. The renovated Pavilion structure with its wooden elements and ample natural light is particularly impressive. Families can enjoy a range of activities including the Bubble Planet for young kids and the Museum of Illusions. The Pixel museum showcases the evolution of video gaming with functioning old consoles.
The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is a grand Roman Catholic place of worship, boasting an impressive art deco style with towering cupolas. It stands as the world's fifth largest cathedral and houses two museums, a theater, and a restaurant in its basement. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views comparable to those from the Atomium. The basilica also features The Black Sisters Museum showcasing historical dinnerware and The Modern Religious Art Museum exhibiting paintings and sculptures.