Things to do in Brussels Belgium + Instagram Spots

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium.  Moreover, it’s a vibrant and multicultural hub that offers an array of attractions and activities for every type of traveler.  From its historic landmarks and world-class museums to its culinary delights and lively festivals, Brussels has something for everyone.  Whether you’re a history buff or an art lover.  Alternatively, a foodie or just looking to explore a new city, here are the top things to do in Brussels Belgium.

Firstly, there are some great hotel deals in central Brussels.

Grand Place and Brussels City Hall

In old town Brussels you’ll be overwhelmed by the amount of incredible architecture.  As it’s the capital city of Belgium, there’s the highest number of typical Belgian buildings.  The central square of Brussels is known as Grand Place, additionally, it’s a UNESCO site.  The most famous building of Grand Place is the Town Hall.  As a matter of fact, I would call this the top pf Brussels Instagram spots.

If you visit Grand Place at sunrise it’s likely you’ll have it to yourself.  As a result, photographers can take some unobstructed Gothic architecture shots.

Belgian Waffles – Top Things to do in Brussels Belgium

Around the Grand Place and central Brussels you’ll pass many kiosks selling Belgian waffles.  In fact, you’ll find Belgian waffle kiosks all over the country!  What is your favorite Belgian waffle topping?  Whichever topping you prefer, I’m sure they’ll have it here.  In addition, there’ll be many toppings you didn’t even know existed!

Manneken Pis

A top spot to photograph close to the Grand Place is the Manneken Pis statue.  It’s a bronze statue of a small boy peeing.  This statue is often dressed up and it’s even been dressed up as Dracula.  If you’re lucky it will be dressed up when you visit and you can take a unique Manneken Pis photo.  Additionally, there’s are two other statues in Brussels which are inspired by this one.  Firstly, Het Zinneke, which is in fact a dog urinating.

Jeanneke Pis

Once upon a time there was only a statue of a boy peeing in Brussels.  In the interest of equality, the female equivalent was added in 1987.

Read about Bruges Belgium.

Museum of the City of Brussels – King’s House

To learn all about Brussels from its very beginning up until today you must visit Brussels City Museum.  What’s more, you can also the interior of this fine Gothic building.  Lastly, did you know the Manneken Pis you see in the street is a copy?  The original 400 year old statue is located inside this Museum of the City of Brussels.

Atomium and Mini Europe – Instagrammable Places in Brussels

The Atomium is probably the most popular destination in Brussels as well as one of the cities most important landmarks.  It’s possible to go inside each of the atoms and once you’re in the atom at the top you can take a great panoramic shot of the surrounding area.  Adjacent to the Atomium is Mini-Europe theme park where you’ll find a miniature version of Europe.  Here you’ll find small scale and very detailed landmarks from European cities such as Big Ben, Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral

Brussels is home to a huge Gothic church.  For such an impressive building, the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral is in quite a peaceful location away from the historic center.  I highly recommend you add this church to your Brussels itinerary.  Finally, make sure you explore the majestic interior.

Inside St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral

What caught my eye inside the cathedral was the detailed stained glass windows.  In addition to these, the enormity of the whole structure is awe inspiring.  For this reason, you must visit the cathedral whether you’re religious or not.

Discover the Comic Strip Route – Brussels Instagram Spots

Brussels has a rich comic strip heritage, being the birthplace of famous characters like Tintin and The Smurfs.  The Comic Strip Route is a unique walking tour that takes you through the city to discover over 50 colorful murals depicting scenes from popular Belgian comics.  In addition, the Belgian Comic Strip Center is also worth a visit, showcasing the history and art of comic strips.

Botanical Garden

There are several reasons to visit the Botanical Garden of Brussels.  Firstly, it’s located in the city center and therefore easy to get to.  Secondly, it’s free to enter the gardens which make a good place to relax as well as take your Instagram photos.  Finally, it’s a blend of English, Italian as well as French gardening and architecture.

Royal Gallery of St Hubert – Brussels Instagram Spots

Royal Gallery of St Hubert is the Brussels answer to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan.  Visit to do some high end shopping or stop for a cafe.  Alternatively, visit when it’s quiet to pose in one of the top Brussels Instagram spots.

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a must see in Belgium.  If not for the fact it is one of the largest churches in the world, visit because it’s visually stunning and therefore a top Instagram spot.  This church can get very busy but if you visit at sunrise you should have the surroundings to yourself.  For those who like to pose for elaborate photos, you should consider this one of Brussels Instagram spots.  Stand on the winding road in front of it for a memorable photo.

Arc de Triomphe and Cinquantenaire Park

Belgium has its own Arc de Triomphe known as Arc du Cinquantenaire.  In fact, this triumphal arch is the centerpiece of Cinquantenaire park.  Translated into English. Cinquantenaire park means park of the 50th anniversary.  The park was created in 1880 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence.  Lastly, the arch was completed in 1905.

Did you know the largest Triumphal arch in the world is located in Pyongyang, North Korea?  In addition, there’s a 1800 year old triumphal arch in Thessaloniki, Greece.  Lastly, the biggest triumphal arch is found in Mexico City.

Visit the Magritte Museum – Things to do in Brussels Belgium

Art lovers should not miss the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of the famous Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte.  Indeed, the museum houses the largest collection of Magritte’s works in the world.  What’s more, it includes her paintings, sculptures, photographs and films.  The museum provides a fascinating insight into the life and work of this influential artist.

Saint Mary’s Royal Church

Saint Mary’s Royal Church is a worthwhile walk from the historic center of Brussels.  Not many tourists know about this church therefore it’s likely to be empty when you visit.  Moreover, it’s visually stunning which makes it one of the perfect Instagrammable places in Brussels.  Additionally, professional photographers will enjoy capturing this church and can make use of the many tram lines around it to visually enhance it more.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is a must visit in Brussels as it’s the home of the King and Queen of Belgium.  In fact, a few months each year it’s possible to visit the palace, the rest of the year however, you must view it from the adjacent street.  A visit here is the equivalent of visiting the famous London landmark, Buckingham Palace.  Opposite the Palace is Brussels Park which is surrounded by beautiful Belgian architecture including the Center of Fine Arts and Chamber of Representatives.

Visit European Parliament – Parlamentarium

Belgium is the de facto capital of the European Union.  For this reason, there are several European parliament buildings.  One such building is the Parlamentarium which is the visitor center for the European Parliament.  If you are interested in politics then you must take a tour of the building.  It’s the largest parliamentary visitor center in Europe and on a tour you’ll visit the famous Hemicycle (above) which you’ve probably seen on TV.  Check the schedule before arriving to confirm its opening times.  Entrance is free but security is tight.

EU Buildings – Instagrammable Places in Brussels

There are many other significant European parliament buildings around the European parliament area of Brussels.  As you explore, you’ll notice that security is tight and therefore also see military including tanks in this part of Brussels.  I believe you’re allowed to photograph the tanks but do so discreetly.

Mont des Arts

Many visitors believe Mont des Arts is the most beautiful park in Brussels.  Firstly, it’s surrounded by stunning buildings in every direction.  Secondly, it features a well kept park in the center.  In addition, it keeps a good degree of symmetry which makes it visually pleasing.  I recommend you visit at sunrise or sunset when this park becomes majestic.

Mont des Arts at Night

The city center park is open 24 hours a day so it’s worth popping by at nighttime.  Night photography can be magical at Mont des Arts.

Street Art – Brussels Instagram Spots

As you would imagine, the Belgian capital is full of street art.  As you explore the city keep your eyes open for stunning artwork.  The art photographed above is in the historic center, adjacent to Grand Place.

Heysel Football Stadium

The Heysel football stadium is where Liverpool infamously played Juventus in 1985 European Cup Final.  An hour before kick off the Liverpool fans charged at the Juventus fans which led to a wall collapsing and lots of Juventus fans being killed.  Subsequently English teams were banned from all European competition for several years.  There’s now a plaque at the stadium in memory of those who died on this day.  Heysel stadium is adjacent to the Atomium.  I’m lucky enough to have taken both a Juventus stadium tour as well as an Anfield stadium tour.  However, there is no Heysel Stadium tour available therefore you can only visit on a match day.

Experience the Nightlife in the Saint-Géry District

For a taste of Brussels’ vibrant nightlife, head to the Saint-Géry District.  This area is packed with trendy bars, clubs, and cafes.  As a result, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.  Thus, enjoy live music, dance the night away or simply relax with a Belgian beer.  Equally important, the district’s lively atmosphere makes it the perfect place to experience Brussels after dark.

How to get from Brussels to Ghent

I hope you enjoyed the things to do in Brussels Belgium.  Next, it’s time to leave Brussels for Ghent.  Indeed, there are very regularly trains which take less than 40 minutes for around €7.  You can take the train from any of the major Brussels train stations as they pass through all of them.  Make sure you buy your ticket from a machine before boarding the train and enjoy the journey!

Ghent to Bruges