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Brussels: Atomium, Manneken Pis, and Waffles Await

Brussel grote markt 360.jpg: The original uploader was Hullie at Dutch Wikipedia. derivative work: ויקיג'אנקי, Brussels banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Brussel grote markt 360.jpg: The original uploader was Hullie at Dutch Wikipedia. derivative work: ויקיג'אנקי, Brussels banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Brussels? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Brussels.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Belgium, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Belgium here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Brussels offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences, blending its medieval past with modern vibrancy. Visitors can expect to explore a city where Gothic architecture stands alongside Art Nouveau, and where the past is preserved in its cobblestone streets and grand squares. The city is a hub for art, history, and politics, providing a diverse range of experiences from museums to historical landmarks. The local culture is characterized by its multilingualism, culinary delights, and a deep appreciation for the arts.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Horta Museum, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Dedicated to the work of the architect Victor Horta, this museum is housed in his former home and studio, showcasing Art Nouveau design. Distance in km: 0.19
2. The St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels: A Roman Catholic church in Gothic style, serving as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. Distance in km: 0.21
3. Grand Place, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Known for its remarkable architecture, including the Town Hall and the King's House. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and hosts numerous events and floral displays. Distance in km: 0.36
4. The Comics Art Museum, Brussels: Dedicated to Belgian comics, it showcases the history of comic strips and its famous characters like Tintin and The Smurfs. Distance in km: 0.42
5. Manneken Pis, Brussels: ⭐ A famous small bronze sculpture depicting a naked little boy urinating into a fountain's basin. It is a symbol of the city's irreverent spirit. Distance in km: 0.59
6. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: Located in Brussels, this group of art museums includes the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Magritte Museum, Wiertz Museum, and Meunier Museum. Distance in km: 0.68
7. The Royal Palace of Brussels: ⭐ The official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians in the center of the nation's capital, not to be confused with the royal family's residence. Distance in km: 0.73
8. The Royal Conservatory of Brussels: A prestigious music and drama school offering performances in an elegant 19th-century building. Distance in km: 0.96
9. The Museum of Natural Sciences, Brussels: Famous for its Gallery of Evolution, Dinosaur Gallery, and collections of natural history. Distance in km: 1.84
10. The Halle Gate, Brussels: A medieval fortified city gate of Brussels. It is the last remaining gate of the second walls of Brussels, serving now as a museum. Distance in km: 1.85
11. The Museum of Ixelles: Located in Brussels, this museum features a rich collection of Belgian and international art, including works by the Impressionists. Distance in km: 2.08
12. Parc du Cinquantenaire: A picturesque park with wide lawns, wooded areas, and the impressive Triumphal Arch, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city and a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls. Distance in km: 2.44
13. The Autoworld Museum, Brussels: A vintage car museum housed in the Cinquantenaire Park, showcasing over 250 vehicles from various time periods. Distance in km: 2.71
14. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: ⭐ ⭐ A vast complex of monumental heated greenhouses in the park of the Royal Castle of Laeken, showcasing a wide variety of plants and flowers. Distance in km: 4.8
15. The Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion, Brussels: Part of the Royal Greenhouses, these exotic buildings reflect King Leopold II's fascination with the Far East, showcasing collections of Chinese and Japanese art. Distance in km: 5.04
16. Mini-Europe, Brussels: ⭐ An outdoor miniature park located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe features reproductions of monuments in the European Union on a scale of 1:25. Distance in km: 5.32
17. Atomium, Brussels: ⭐ ⭐ An iconic building and museum shaped like a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It provides panoramic views of Brussels. Distance in km: 5.37
18. The Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren: A museum focusing on the Congo, a former Belgian colony. Its exhibits cover African culture, art, history, and natural science. Distance in km: 11.48
19. Waterloo Battlefield: ⭐ The site of Napoleon's last battle, visitors can explore the museum, climb the Lion's Mound, and learn about the battle's history. Distance in km: 19.03
20. The Fort of Breendonk: A military fortification used as a concentration camp during World War II. Today, it serves as a national memorial and museum. Distance in km: 23.23
21. Walibi Belgium: A popular amusement park located in Wavre, offering a variety of roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly attractions. Distance in km: 23.27
22. The Abbey of Villers: A former Cistercian abbey located near the town of Villers-la-Ville. Its ruins provide a beautiful example of the life of monks in the past. Distance in km: 31.09
23. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp: Home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Distance in km: 40.28
24. Rubens House, Antwerp: ⭐ The former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, now a museum dedicated to his life and work, showcasing his paintings and personal items. Distance in km: 41.26
25. The Antwerp Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the world, offering a mix of historic architecture with modern exhibits for over 7,000 animals. Distance in km: 41.3
26. Antwerp Central Station: ⭐ ⭐ Considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, this stunning piece of architecture is a must-see for its intricate details and grandeur. Distance in km: 41.34
27. The Plantin-Moretus Museum, Antwerp, UNESCO World Heritage: A printing museum focused on the work of the 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Distance in km: 41.37
28. The Grote Markt of Antwerp: The main square in Antwerp, surrounded by the Town Hall and beautiful guildhalls. It's a vibrant place of historical significance. Distance in km: 41.69
29. The Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS), Antwerp: A museum located along the river in Antwerp, focusing on the city, the river, and the port. Its building is an architectural landmark. Distance in km: 42.57
30. Pairi Daiza: A privately owned zoo and botanical garden located in Brugelette in the province of Hainaut. It features themed gardens and a wide variety of animals. Distance in km: 44.22
31. The Cathedral of Saint Bavo, Ghent: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, the cathedral is home to the famous altarpiece, 'The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' by the Van Eyck brothers. Distance in km: 49.79
32. The Belfry of Ghent, UNESCO World Heritage: An iconic medieval tower that provides panoramic views of Ghent and its surroundings. It's part of the UNESCO World Heritage belfries of Belgium and France. Distance in km: 49.93

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Brussels offers a variety of serene environments perfect for relaxation. Visitors can expect to find lush parks, tranquil gardens, and wellness centers that provide a peaceful escape from the city's vibrant atmosphere. The city is known for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and relaxation.

1. Parc du Cinquantenaire: A historic park featuring grand arches and museums.

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large public park in the easternmost part of the European Quarter in Brussels. It was built during the reign of Leopold II to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. The park is known for its triumphal arch, beautiful gardens, and several museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and the stunning architecture.

Type: park | Fee: free
2. Bois de la Cambre: A large urban park perfect for outdoor activities.

Bois de la Cambre is a popular park located in the southern part of Brussels. It serves as a green oasis where locals and tourists alike can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and rowing on the lake. The park also features a charming island with a restaurant, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and dining amidst nature.

Type: park | Fee: free
3. Jardin du Mont des Arts: A beautifully landscaped garden with stunning city views.

Jardin du Mont des Arts is a small, yet picturesque garden located in the heart of Brussels. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat with its manicured lawns, fountains, and flower beds. The garden provides a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular spot for photography and relaxation. It's also conveniently located near several cultural institutions, including the Royal Library and the Magritte Museum.

Type: garden | Fee: free
4. Parc Leopold: A tranquil park with a scenic pond and wildlife.

Parc Leopold is a serene park located in the European Quarter of Brussels. It features a picturesque pond, lush greenery, and a variety of wildlife, including ducks and swans. The park is a favorite among locals for its peaceful atmosphere and is ideal for a quiet stroll or a relaxing afternoon. It is also home to the Solvay Library and the Museum of Natural Sciences.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Jardin Botanique Meise: A vast botanical garden with diverse plant species.

Jardin Botanique Meise, located just outside Brussels, is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world. It spans over 92 hectares and houses an extensive collection of plants from all over the globe. Visitors can explore the garden's greenhouses, arboretum, and thematic gardens, making it a paradise for botany enthusiasts and nature lovers. The garden also offers educational exhibits and guided tours.

Type: garden | Fee: 9 EUR

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. visit.brussels

Tourist information center

Address: Rue Royale 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
2. Brussels Greeters

Tourist information center

Address: Rue Royale 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
3. Bratislava Region Brussels Office

Tourist information center

Address: Rue d'Arlon 63, 1040 Ixelles, Belgium

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Brussels?

Brussels offers a variety of mobility options for both residents and visitors. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation is well-developed, with a network of buses, trams, and metro lines connecting different parts of the city. Cycling is also a viable option, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Ride-sharing services provide additional flexibility for those preferring private transport.

In the heart of Brussels, areas like the Grand Place are designated pedestrian zones, perfect for walking and sightseeing. The STIB/MIVB operates the city's public transportation, including four metro lines and numerous bus and tram routes. Tickets can be purchased at stations or via mobile apps. For cycling enthusiasts, Villo! offers a bike-sharing service with stations throughout the city. Bikes can be rented for short trips, and there are ample cycling paths to ensure a safe ride. Ride-sharing services such as Uber are available, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. For those planning to use public transport frequently, consider purchasing a MOBIB card for ease of travel.