Visit Brussels

How to plan a trip to Brussels

Planning your trip to Brussels carefully is essential for an unforgettable experience. With a wide range of attractions, characteristic neighbourhoods and culinary delights to discover, the city offers an incredible variety of experiences. With our comprehensive guide, you'll get valuable tips and practical information to help you plan your long-awaited holiday. Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey of discovery in this unique European capital.

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium located in the heart of Europe, has a population of around 1.2 million. This cosmopolitan and multicultural city is a crossroads of history, culture and gastronomy. Immerse yourself in its magical and typical atmosphere and be surprised by its fascinating hidden gems. The city is also famous for being the seat of the European Parliament, the main legislative body of the European Union. This gives the city significant political and institutional importance on an international level.

Documents

When travelling to Brussels from the UK, USA, or another European country, it's essential to have the appropriate documents in order. For citizens of the UK and USA, a valid passport is typically required. Additionally, travellers from other European countries may use either a passport or a national identity card, depending on their country's regulations.

For short stays, typically up to 90 days, tourists from the UK, USA, and other European countries generally do not require a visa, as Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area. However, it's important to verify specific visa requirements based on nationality and length of stay before travelling.

Language

French and Dutch are mainly spoken in Brussels, both being official languages of Belgium. The Flemish community is significant, and English is widely spoken, especially in international areas. The linguistic diversity reflects the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city.

Climate

Brussels' climate is characterised by cool, wet winters and moderate summers. Average winter temperatures are around 2-6°C, while summer temperatures range between 17 and 22°C. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with a peak in the autumn months. Cloudy days are common, but the overall climate is mild and temperate, making Brussels pleasant to visit at any time of year.

Transport and shopping schedules

In Brussels, public services such as transport and banks follow regular hours, with offices open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Public transport operates from early morning until late evening, including night services on weekdays and weekends. Businesses have variable hours, but many are open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday, with some businesses also open on Sundays.

Top 10 places to visit

Exploring Brussels means immersing yourself in a city rich in history, culture and architectural charm. With a myriad of places to visit, we have selected a top 10 list of paid and free places that offer unique and memorable experiences.

• Top 10 paid places to visit in Brussels:
  1. Grand Place;
  2. Magritte Museum;
  3. Royal Palace of Brussels;
  4. Atomium;
  5. Parlamentarium;
  6. Brussels Museum of Fine Arts;
  7. Mini-Europe;
  8. Choco-Story Brussels;
  9. Chocolate Museum Belgium;
  10. Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula.
• Top 10 free places to visit in the city:
  1. Parc du Cinquantenaire;
  2. Mont des Arts;
  3. Manneken Pis;
  4. Walk along the River Senne;
  5. Place du Petit Sablon;
  6. Parc de Bruxelles;
  7. Le Botanique;
  8. European Quarter;
  9. Marolles Quarter with its flea market on the Place du Jeu de Balle;
  10. Serres Royales De Laeken during the public opening period.

Brussels enchants visitors with its rich history, unique culture and typical architecture. From its picturesque neighbourhoods to its impressive structures, the city offers an unforgettable experience to anyone who visits. With its cosmopolitan location and lively spirit, the city continues to be a place of inspiration for those who wish to immerse themselves in a unique and fascinating European setting.