Brussels isn’t a city that dazzles all at once—it reveals its beauty in layers. Strolling through its streets, you’ll find grandeur in Gothic spires, elegant arcades, and Art Nouveau façades. Let me take you along my favorite beautiful places in Brussels and make you fall in love with the city.
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is a city that reveals itself slowly. Having lived here for many years, my curiosity has led me down quiet alleys, into grand squares, and behind unassuming facades in search of its hidden beauty. It’s a place where ornate guild houses, Art Nouveau masterpieces, and atmospheric bookshops exist side by side.
Among the prettiest places in Brussels, a few stand out. The Town Hall on Grand Place is pure Gothic grandeur, its delicate spire reaching high above the square’s golden façades. The Tropismes Library, tucked inside the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, is all chandeliers, mirrors, and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Then there’s Hôtel Hannon, an Art Nouveau gem where I have taken at least a million snaps.
But beauty here isn’t always obvious—it’s found in the details, the stories, and the way Brussels invites you to look a little closer. I hope this guide to places in Brussels helps you to discover a different side of the city.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Brussels
TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS
- Beautiful Design B&B: Le Berger
- Central Location: Warwick Hotel
- Great for going out at night: Moxy Hotel
- Sustainable Choice: B&B Brussels Louise
HIGHLY RATED TOURS
BEST BARS IN TOWN: Brussels Beer Project, Moeder Lambic, Bar des Amis
MUST VISIT RESTAURANTS: Manneken Pis Café (Fusion), Strofilia (Greek), Choux de Bruxelles (Belgian)
MORE INSPIRATION: 3-5 Day Belgium itinerary || 15 Conscious boutique hotels in Brussels
SEASONAL GUIDES: Brussels Christmas Market // Hallerbos near Brussels guide
DISCOUNT CARDS: Art Nouveau Pass; Brussels City Card with public transport included
25 Prettiest Places in Brussels to Visit
1. Horta Museum
Tucked away in the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, the Horta Museum is one of the best places in Brussels if you want to learn about the Art Nouveau movement in the city. Once the home and studio of architect Victor Horta, this UNESCO-listed gem showcases his revolutionary approach to light, space, and organic forms.
Built between 1898 and 1901, the house retains its original stained glass, mosaic floors, and elegant ironwork, making it a dream for architecture lovers. It’s a lovely space to wander through the rooms, walk up the staircase and, if you are like me, form a love affair with the spectacular wall paper. They do not build houses like this anymore!
GOOD TO KNOW | Tickets need to be purchased online and in advance! The museum is small and only allows a limited amount of visitors per hour. Photography is prohibited in the museum.
FOODIE TIP | 100 Meters away from the Horta Museum you can find the Forcado Pastelaria which serves the very best Pasteis de Nata in the entire city.
Address: Rue Américaine 25,1060 Brussels; Opening Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 14:00–17:30 (closed Monday & Tuesday)
Price: €12 (adults), €6 (students), free for children under 6
FOR ART NOUVEAU LOVERS | If you are planning on visiting more than one Art Nouveau townhouse make sure to look into the Art Nouveau Pass, which allows you to enter 3 townhouses at a discounted rate.
2. Bourse de Bruxelles
Right in the heart of Brussels stands one of the most beautiful places in Brussels. Built between 1868 and 1873, this grand neoclassical building once housed the Brussels Stock Exchange and is adorned with intricate sculptures by renowned artists, including Auguste Rodin.
After falling into disrepair in the second half of the 20th century, the structure was fully renovated and finally reopened again for the public in 2024. Today you can find a museum dedicated to Belgium’s rich brewing heritage (Belgian Beer World), a rooftop terrace with spectacular views over the city, a restaurant and a small coworking space inside. Only the museum requires an entrance ticket, the rest are free of charge.
GOOD TO KNOW | The rooftop terrace is only accessible for visitors to the museum from 10.00 am to 05.00 pm, after the museum closes the bar is open to the public. Getting to the rooftop bar requires taking an elevator which can be found on the ground floor at the back of the building.
Address: Place de la Bourse, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–18:00
Price Belgian Beer World: €17 (adults), €10 (students), free for children under 12
GET YOUR TICKETS | Buy your tickets for the Belgian Beer world online and gain access to the terrace before 17.00
3. Domaine Solvay – Château de La Hulpe
READ MORE| 10 Beautiful castles around Brussels
On the outskirts of Brussels lies the vast Domaine Solvay. This vast 227-hectare estate, once the private domain of industrialist Ernest Solvay, is home to the enchanting Château de La Hulpe. Built in 1842 in the French Renaissance style, the castle was later acquired by the Solvay family, who transformed the grounds into the park you see today.
Though the château remains closed to visitors, the surrounding park is a haven for slow walks and lazy picnics. Take a peek at the various available trails on AllTrails ranging from 3.5 km to 12 km. I love coming here in Autumn when the ivy on the castle turns a vibrant color red!
GETTING THERE | For those seeking places of interest in Brussels beyond the city’s bustle, Domaine Solvay is a 40-minute train ride from Brussels Central to La Hulpe Station, followed by a 20-minute walk through scenic countryside.
Address: Chaussée de Bruxelles 111, 1310 La Hulpe; Opening Hours: Park open daily, 8:00–18:00 (until 21:00 in summer)
Price: Free entry to the park
4. La Monnaie – De Munt
Opéra La Monnaie is the beating heart of Brussels’ cultural scene. First built in 1700, this grand opera house played a key role in history: the Belgian Revolution of 1830 was sparked here after a patriotic aria ignited the audience’s nationalist spirit. The building was later rebuilt in 1856 and remains one of Europe’s most prestigious opera houses.
Today, La Monnaie stages world-class operas, ballets, and concerts. The agenda is usually a mix of classical masterpieces and bold contemporary productions. While opera is not entirely my cup of tea, the interior is more than enough to have me rushing to purchase tickets. Think soaring gilded ceilings, plush red velvet seats, and an opulent chandelier that bathes the hall in golden light.
Tickets and the cultural agenda can be found on the La Monnaie website. If you are not interested in attending a full show you could look into taking a guided tour. Run every Saturday from February to the end of June and costs €15 per person. Tickets are to be booked on the official website, in advance as spaces are limited.
FOODIE TIP | Next to La Monnaie you can find one of the best brunch spots in Brussels: Frank.
Address: Place de la Monnaie, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Box office open Monday–Friday, 12:00–18:00
Price: Tickets start at €10, with discounts for students & under-30s
5. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken
Tucked behind the regal gates of the Royal Palace of Laeken, the Royal Greenhouses feel like something out of a dream—an ethereal world of glass, iron, and cascading greenery. Built in the late 19th century at the request of King Leopold II.
These soaring pavilions were designed by Alphonse Balat, mentor to Art Nouveau pioneer Victor Horta. The vast glass domes and intricate ironwork create a palace for plants, filled with rare orchids, towering palms, and centuries-old camellias.
What makes these greenhouses truly special is their exclusivity—they open to the public for only three weeks a year, typically in April and May, when the flowers are in full bloom. Wandering through the tropical pavilions, with their intoxicating scents and dappled light, feels like stepping into a living work of art.
For those seeking a nice place to visit in Brussels that mainly locals know about, this hidden sanctuary is worth timing your trip around—a glimpse into a royal paradise that few ever get to see.
PRACTICAL TIP | Tickets for the Royal Greenhouses tend to sell out very fast and the greenhouses are packed with people. Personally, I try and book either the first slot of the day or the last slot to mitigate the crowds. Be sure to dress in layers as inside the greenhouses it tends to get muggy.
Address: Avenue du Parc Royal, 1020 Brussels; Opening Hours: Check the official website as timings change yearly
Price: €5 entrance fee
6. Maison Hannon
On the border between the commune of Saint-Gilles and Ixelles lies the unassuming Maison Hannon. One glance at the façade of the grand townhouse will have you dreaming of the Belle Époque. You would not be far off! Built in 1902 for industrialist Édouard Hannon, this private mansion was the vision of architect Jules Brunfaut.
If you have visited the other Art Nouveau mansions in Brussels (Hôtel Solvay, Maison Horta) it will immediately become apparent that the architect Jules Brunfaut did not adhere to the strict rules of Art Nouveau but instead opted for a rather unique blend of Belgian Art Nouveau and French Symbolism.
Closed for many years to the public, it was finally reopened after extensive renovations in 2024. At the time of writing the museum was in the finishing stages of renovation of the kitchen area and the attic space. Personally, this is my absolute favorite Art Nouveau house in the city and chances are high you might find me right here if you do happen to visit.
Address: Avenue de la Jonction 1, 1060 Brussels; Opening Hours: Friday–Sunday, 10:00–18:00
Price: €10 (adults), €5 (students), free for children under 6; Tickets: Available online or at the entrance
FOR ART NOUVEAU LOVERS | Interested in learning more about Art Nouveau in Brussels, consider taking a 3-hour guided tour with a local through the city. Taking you past the prettiest Art Nouveau townhouses.
7. Royal Museum for Central Africa
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Just outside Brussels, in the leafy suburb of Tervuren, the Royal Museum for Central Africa is as striking as it is thought-provoking. Housed in a grand neoclassical palace built by King Leopold II in 1910, the museum was originally a colonial showcase. In essence, it might look like a palace but it was always built to be a museum.
Today, it has been fully reimagined, offering a critical look at Belgium’s colonial past while celebrating the cultures, art, and biodiversity of Central Africa. At least that is the idea. The museum itself is subject to a lot of criticism, and truthfully I can’t say I entirely disagree. My suggestion would be to hop over to form your own opinion on the museum.
Inside, you’ll find everything from intricately carved masks and contemporary Congolese art to immersive exhibits on biodiversity. The museum is surrounded by the lush Tervuren Park, with manicured lawns, serene lakes, and grand avenues lined with century-old trees. It’s one of the most beautiful places near Brussels for a stroll or a picnic.
GOOD TO KNOW | The museum is reachable via tram 44, which is the prettiest tram ride as it burrows through avenues filled with dense foliage hanging over the tracks.
Address: Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren; Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
Price: €12 (adults), €8 (students), free for children under 18; Tickets: Available online or at the entrance
PUBLIC TRANSPORT | Staying in Brussels for a few days, consider investing in a Brussels Card which also includes unlimited use of public transport. One-way tickets for public transport costs €2.5 which tends to get expensive quickly!
8. Musical Instruments Museum (MIM)
Housed in one of Brussels’ most striking Art Nouveau buildings lies a very special little museum: The Musical Instruments Museum (MIM). Originally the Old England department store, this 19th-century beauty was transformed into a museum celebrating the world of music, with a collection spanning over 8,000 instruments from around the globe.
From rare harpsichords and centuries-old violins to exotic African percussion and experimental electronic synths, every exhibit tells the story of sound. What is very cool is how the audio guide allows you to listen to every single instrument. Word of caution though, do not try and listen to each piece because after one floor your head will be pounding! I made it halfway through floor two before realizing this!
The MIM’s rooftop café offers one of the best panoramic views of Brussels. At the time of writing the café had been closed for renovations for a few years. Here is hoping it is open for business again once you visit! They used to serve a really good brunch on Sunday, hopefully, that service will pick up again too.
Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30–17:00 (closed Mondays)
Price: €15 (adults), €5 (students), free for children under 18
9. Brussels Town Hall
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Towering over Grand Place stands the Gothic Brussels Town Hall, the only medieval structure still standing on the square! Built between 1402 and 1455, it survived the 1695 bombardment, making it one of the city’s most treasured landmarks. For anyone interested in the history of the town hall, pop into the Brussels City Museum just across the square.
The asymmetrical façade of the town hall features intricate sculptures of dukes, saints, and mythical creatures. At the top of its 96-meter spire watching over the city below stands the patron saint of the city, Saint Michael, slaying a dragon.
Since a couple of years, the town hall can be visited with regular guided tours! Tours take you through the wildly opulent chambers, past centuries-old tapestries, along grand halls lined with 18th-century paintings. At certain times of the year the city council opens the tower and you can clamber up. I went during Christmas one year to see the Christmas Market on the Grand Place from a vantage point. So cold, but 100% worth the climb.
Address: Grand Place, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Monday 11.00-17.00; Saturday 15.00-19.00; Sunday 11.00-17.00
Price: €15 (adults), €8 (students), free for children under 6; Tickets: Available online or at the entrance
DISCOVER HIGHLIGHTS AND HIDDEN GEMS | Not entirely sure where to start in Brussels? Book a private tour with a local to visit both the highlights of the city, various hidden gems and a few tasty restaurants.
10. Grand Place of Brussels
No matter how many times you visit, the Grand Place never loses its magic! Even though I have lived in the city for many years, whenever I find myself in the historical center, my feet have a mind of their own.
Widely considered one of the most opulent squares in Europe, the gilded façades are a breathtaking display of Baroque, Gothic, and neoclassical grandeur. While most travelers stop for a quick photo before moving on, I can only tell you they are missing out! There is plenty of history hidden within the UNESCO-listed architecture!
The square is framed by former guild houses, their ornate façades adorned with golden statues that hint at the trades they once represented. The two largest landmarks dominate the scene—the Gothic Brussels City Town Hall, with its soaring spire (which you can climb on a guided tour), and the neo-Gothic King’s House, now home to the Brussels City Museum.
WHAT TO DO| Visit the Brussels Beer Museum, explore the Brussels City Museum, or climb the Town Hall spire for a panoramic view.
BEST VIEWS | Grab a spot on the first floor of Café La Brouette or Le Roy d’Espagne for a stunning overlook of the square.
11. Mont des Arts
One of the best panoramic viewpoints in Brussels is known as Mont des Arts. This little hill connects the city’s historic center to its royal district. Once a dense medieval neighborhood, it was transformed in the early 20th century into a grand cultural space.
The main allure is the view: landscaped gardens, a perfect sightline leading straight to Grand Place with the Town Hall’s spire peaking out. It is the picture-perfect postcard of Brussels, and I have witnessed more than once marriage proposal right here!
Beyond the view, Mont des Arts is home to some of Brussels’ top museums, including the Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and a few lively bars. Cocktail lovers will want to pop into the quirky Pharmacie Anglaise while drinks with a view can be had in Plein Publiek.
In the summer months, the top of the stairs cascading down to the landscaped gardens is transformed into a pop-up bar with plenty of fold-out chairs just begging to be used while you watch the sunset.
12. Palace of Justice
Built between 1866 and 1883, this colossal neoclassical courthouse was designed by Joseph Poelaert and was, at the time, the largest building in the world. Its sheer scale still astounds today, with a dome rising 104 meters high, dominating the skyline.
The palace has long been a symbol of power and controversy, not least because entire neighborhoods were demolished to make way for its construction. Though its restoration has been ongoing for decades, in fact it has been under renovation for over 38 years. It is a running joke amongst us locals.
The inside of the Palace of Justice can be visited free of charge, however you will need to pass a metal detector. Personally, my favorite part of the Palace of Justice is the monumental marble staircase which according to legend was designed to make the visitors feel the weight of justice itself.
GOOD TO KNOW | The marble staircase pictured above does not actually require one to enter the building. Simply head inside the structure and before you hit the entrance door, veer left. Only accessible when the Palace of Justice itself is open.
Address: Place Poelaert 1, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00–17:00
Price: Free entry
13. Les Galeries Royales – Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
One of the most magical places in Brussels! Stepping into the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert always makes me feel like I am on set for a period drama. Opened in 1847, this glass-roofed arcade was one of the first shopping galleries in Europe, designed to shield high society from the elements while they strolled, shopped, and socialized. The gallery is divided into three sections—Galerie du Roi, Galerie de la Reine, and Galerie des Princes!
Aside from eating your weight in chocolate and filling your memory cards with hundreds of pictures, there are actually quite a few additional things to do in the arcades.
TROPISMES LIBRARY: Nestled in the Princes’ Gallery lies the prettiest bookstore in Brussels. This beautiful hidden nook was a ballroom and then a famous Jazz Bar in a former life.
GALLERIES CINEMAS: The Queen’s Gallery houses a little cinema that dates back to 1939 and is still playing a select number of niche films. Check out what is playing.
MAISON DANDOY: At the beginning of the Queen’s Gallery you will find a large Maison Dandoy, serving one of the best hot chocolates in Brussels.
ROYAL THEATER: The galleries have their very own theater (Théâtre Royal des Galeries), the theater was painted by none other then famous Surrealist painter Renée Magritte. Find out what’s playing online.
CHOCOLATE STORES: There are plenty of chocolate stores inside: Neuhaus (Queen’s Gallery), Pierre Marcolini (Queen’s Gallery), and Mary’s Chocolate (Queen’s Gallery) have a good selection of pralines.
14. Hôtel Solvay
An architectural jewel hidden in plain sight, Hôtel Solvay is one of Victor Horta’s greatest masterpieces and a UNESCO-listed Art Nouveau icon. Commissioned in 1894 by industrialist Armand Solvay, no expense was spared in its creation—Horta had complete artistic freedom, resulting in a home where light, space, and craftsmanship blend in perfect harmony.
Every detail was meticulously designed, from the sweeping iron staircase to the intricate woodwork and custom-made furniture. Large bay windows flood the rooms with natural light, illuminating marble walls, stained glass panels, and gilded accents. Unlike many Art Nouveau homes, Hôtel Solvay has retained its original decor, offering a rare glimpse into fin-de-siècle luxury.
This particular property is still privately owned and therefore only open to the public with a guided visit. Opening hours and days tend to be a little hit or miss. It took me 3 visits before I got to actually enter the property. If you are deadset on visiting, make sure to send them an email checking if the townhouse is open on the day of your visit. Or book your guided tour online.
Address: Avenue Louise 224, 1050 Brussels; Opening Hours: Thursday–Saturday, guided visits only (times vary)
Price: €12 (adults), €6 (students), free for children under 12
FOR ART NOUVEAU LOVERS | If you are planning on visiting more than one Art Nouveau townhouse make sure to look into the Art Nouveau Pass, which allows you to enter 3 townhouses at a discounted rate.
15. Théâtre Royal des Galeries
Beneath the glass-roofed splendor of the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the Théâtre Royal des Galeries has been captivating audiences since 1847. Designed by Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar, the same architect behind the shopping arcade above, this neoclassical jewel is a world of red velvet seats, gilded balconies, and soft, glowing chandeliers.
Look up, and you’ll see a piece of surrealist history—René Magritte painted the theater’s ceiling in 1951, transforming it into a dreamlike sky filled with clouds. It’s a hidden gem of his work, adding an unexpected artistic flourish to this historic venue.
A few weeks ago I attended my first play here and absolutely loved it. The room is divided over 3 floors, is wonderfully cozy, and with some excellent acoustics. We watched “Murder on the Orient Express”, the French team of actors did such a great job!
GOOD TO KNOW | The theatre cannot be visited on a guided tour, it is only open to the public when a play is on.
Address: Galerie du Roi 32, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Varies by performance
Tickets: Available online or at the box office
16. Parc Du Cinquantenaire
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Spanning 30 hectares, Parc du Cinquantenaire is more than just a park—it’s a monument to Belgian history. Commissioned by King Leopold II for 50 years of independence, its centerpiece is the Cinquantenaire Arch, completed in 1905. This triumphal arch rivals those in Paris and Berlin, standing as a symbol of national pride.
Beneath its soaring columns, wide avenues lead to manicured gardens, fountains, and grand museums. The park is home to the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces, Autoworld, and the Art & History Museum. The former is set within the actual arch while the latter is a grand neoclassical building housing an eclectic set of collections including Egyptian sarcophagi, Art Nouveau treasures, and a few Aztec relics.
GOOD TO KNOW | You can climb to the top of the arch for free from an entrance in the army museum to have a sweeping view over Brussels.
Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7 (museum hours vary)
17. Passage du Nord
I snuck in a little hidden gem into this article because Passage du Nord is often overlooked by travelers and locals alike. Tucked between Boulevard Adolphe Max and Rue Neuve, Passage du Nord is a glimpse into 19th-century Brussels. Built in 1881, this elegant shopping arcade was designed as a shortcut for well-heeled shoppers moving between the city’s busiest streets.
Lining the passage are old-world boutiques, bookshops, and jewelers, some retaining their original storefronts. The most striking detail is the series of classical statues, each representing themes of commerce and industry. At night, the arcade glows under vintage chandeliers, a quiet contrast to the bustle outside.
For those looking beyond the usual sights, this is one of the best hidden places in Brussels. It’s not just a passageway but a moment in time—proof that even the quickest detours in this city can reveal something special.
Address: Boulevard Adolphe Max 3, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Open daily, 24/7 (shop hours vary)
18. Tropismes Libraires
Hidden within the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Tropismes Libraires is the kind of place you stumble upon and never want to leave. Sunlight filters through its arched windows, casting a warm glow over towering bookshelves and gilded mirrors. The space, once a 19th-century ballroom, still holds that quiet sense of grandeur.
The collection leans heavily toward French literature, philosophy, and the arts, but even non-French speakers will find something to love. The careful curation, the creak of wooden floors, the way the chandeliers catch the light—it’s a place that invites you to slow down.
Despite being smack in the centre of tourist central, the bookstore offers a gentle escape from the rush outside. Whether you leave with a book, a black and white postcard or just a few snaps, Tropismes reminds you why bookstores will always be magic.
Address: Galerie des Princes 11, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10:00–19:00; Sunday, 11:00–19:00
19. Hôtel van Eetvelde
Of all Victor Horta’s Art Nouveau creations, Hôtel van Eetvelde is one of the most striking. Commissioned in 1895 by Baron Edmond van Eetvelde, a diplomat deeply involved in Belgium’s colonial past, the house pushed the boundaries of design. From the street, its asymmetrical façade and swirling ironwork hint at the masterpiece inside.
Step through the doors, and light pours through a stained-glass dome, dancing across curving staircases and intricate wood paneling. Horta designed everything—the iron columns, the flowing lines, the way space itself seems to breathe. It feels less like a house and more like a living, organic structure.
Adjacent to the renowned Hôtel van Eetvelde stands its 1898 extension, also crafted by Victor Horta. This annex, located at 2 Avenue Palmerston, was designed to house Baron Edmond van Eetvelde’s office, a garage, and additional apartments. Today, this extension houses LAB·AN, a center dedicated to promoting Art Nouveau with a contemporary perspective.
GOOD TO KNOW | Initially Hôtel van Eetvelde was only set to be open to the public for one year (2023) as it is currently still privately owned. The city managed to strike an agreement and luckily this magnificent townhouse is now permanently open to the public for 3 days a week. Entrance tickets need to be purchased at LAB.AN next door.
Address: Avenue Palmerston 2, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Saturday–Monday, 10:00–17:00; Closed Tuesday–Friday
Price: €12 for adults; €8 for young adults under 26 and free for children under 6.
20. Hallerbos
READ MORE | A complete guide to visiting Hallerbos
Just outside Brussels, Hallerbos transforms into something out of a fairytale each spring. From mid to late April, a sea of wild bluebells blankets the forest floor, creating a soft, purple haze between the towering beech trees. The sight is fleeting, lasting only a couple of weeks before fading back into lush greenery.
To see the bluebells at their best, arrive early or visit on a weekday when the forest is quieter. The 4.8 km and 5.1 km walking trails wind through the most magical sections, leading past moss-covered trunks, dappled sunlight, and rolling carpets of flowers. It’s a place best explored slowly, with time to take in the details.
Located 30 km from Brussels, Hallerbos makes for an easy day trip by train and bus. Stick to the paths to help protect the delicate flowers—this is nature at its most enchanting, and it deserves to be preserved.
BE MINDFUL | I witnessed more than a few people trying to snap a shot right in the middle of the patches of bluebells. Don’t be that person! Trampling flowers is never the answer, just stick to the path and leave nature to do it’s thing.
21. Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
Art lovers, prepare to get lost! The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is Brussels’s answer to the Louvre. Admittedly a little less grand, but you catch my gist. It brings together over 20,000 works, spanning from Flemish Primitives to surrealist masterpieces.
Established in 1801 under Napoleon Bonaparte, this museum complex is a journey through centuries of European creativity, housed in grand, light-filled galleries. The Old Masters Museum is a must for Bruegel and Rubens, while the Fin-de-Siècle Museum dives into the drama of the late 19th century.
My favorite part is the recently renovated Magritte Museum. It offers a deep dive into Belgium’s most famous surrealist and will have you scratching your head at more than one painting.
GOOD TO KNOW | Every first Wednesday of the month from 13.00 the museum is free of charge.
Address: Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (closed Mondays)
Price: Combination ticket for all museums €15 (adults), or a single ticket for the Old Masters or the Magritte Museum (€10)
22. Le Falstaff
A stone’s throw from La Bourse, Le Falstaff is the kind of place that pulls you in with its old-world charm. Inside, the stained-glass windows glow softly, curved wooden booths invite lingering, and intricate Art Nouveau details transport you to another era. It’s the Brussels of a century ago, still alive in the hum of conversation and the clink of beer glasses.
The menu leans into Belgian comfort food, with steaming bowls of moules-frites and slow-cooked carbonnade flamande served alongside an impressive selection of local beers. However inviting the menu might seem, this is not the place to tuck into Belgian food, instead opt to come here for drinks instead.
On the odd occasions, I popped in her last year, both the food and the service fell under the category of a tourist trap. Which is a real pity as the building itself is magnificent. If you are looking for a more respectable level of service pop over the Le Cirio, another Art Nouveau bar on the other side of the La Bourse.
Address: Rue Henri Maus 19, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30–23:00
23. Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria Brussels
Some buildings hold stories in their walls, and the Corinthia Grand Hotel Astoria is one of them. Commissioned by King Leopold II and opened in 1910, this Beaux-Arts beauty has played host to the likes of Winston Churchill and Dwight Eisenhower. After standing empty for years, it was lovingly restored in 2024, blending its old-world grandeur with modern luxury.
Inside, the sweeping staircases, gilded ceilings, and chandeliers whisper of a more glamorous era. The 126 rooms and suites have been reimagined with understated elegance, while the Sisley spa, Le Petit Bon Bon restaurant, and Palais Royal brasserie bring a touch of indulgence. It’s a place where you might just want to move in and never leave.
At €500 a night, staying here isn’t in my budget, but settling into the lounge with a cocktail or high tea definitely is. The service is as polished as the chandeliers, the drinks menu stretches on for pages, and the central location makes it an easy stop after a day of exploring.
The hotel has recently introduced a walk-in weekend brunch, alongside high tea with live music, giving locals and visitors a taste of its grandeur without the overnight price tag. It’s already cemented itself as one of the most opulent and beautiful places in Brussels—and thankfully, you don’t need to be a guest to enjoy it.
Address: Rue Royale 103, 1000 Brussels; Opening Hours: Open year-round
BOOK THE HOTEL | If you are looking for the ultimate luxury stay in Brussels you might want to book a night at the Corinthia Grand Astoria Hotel. Check availability and prices.
24. Chinese Pavilion and Japanese Tower
In the northern reaches of Brussels, near the Royal Palace of Laeken, stand two architectural curiosities: the Chinese Pavilion and the Japanese Tower. Commissioned by King Leopold II in the early 20th century, these structures were intended to bring a touch of the Far East to Belgium’s capital.
The Chinese Pavilion boasts intricate woodwork and houses a remarkable collection of Chinese porcelain, silverware, furniture, and European paintings dating from the 17th to 19th century. Having lived in China for 2 years during my studies I can confirm the outside of the pavilion is as authentic as they come!
Nearby, the Japanese Tower, a five-story pagoda standing nearly 50 meters tall, was inspired by a structure Leopold II admired at the 1900 Paris Exposition. The tower itself is housed on the property of the King.
Unfortunately, both buildings have been closed to the public since 2013 due to structural concerns and have since fallen into disrepair. Despite their designation as historic monuments in 2019, restoration efforts have yet to commence.
Address: Avenue Van Praet, 1020 Brussels
25. Belga Queen
One of Brussels’ most iconic restaurants, Belga Queen is as much about the setting as the food. Housed in a former 18th-century bank, it is a place of grandeur—soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows, and plush leather seating, all wrapped up in effortless elegance.
The menu gives Belgian classics a modern twist, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, local ingredients, and an extensive beer and cocktail list. The oyster bar and main restaurant area have been completely refurbished and reopened in 2024.
I popped into the cocktail bar recently and found the cocktails strong, and the service refined yet relaxed. Seems like Belga Queen is back with a bang! Next up on my list is to test the quality of the food as I have heard mixed reviews. If you do make it there before I update this article, please do not hesitate to let me know about your experience.
Address: Rue du Fossé aux Loups 32, 1000 Brussels
Map of Beautiful Places in Brussels
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Brussels are located.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Brussels
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Ditch the car, chances are high you will only end up in a nerve-wracking struggle to find parking anyway. The city is serviced by a comprehensive network of metro, bus and trams. Learn about public transport in Brussels.
SECOND-HAND SHOPPING: Brussels has some stellar second-hand shopping! For anything interior design-related head to Rue Haute or Rue Blaes in the Marolles neighborhood. Isabelle Bajart (luxury second-hand clothing), Melting Pot Kilo (Vintage clothing) and Episodes (“cool” vintage clothing) are some of my favorites.
PURCHASE LOCAL: If you are in the mood to buy a souvenir, why not purchase something locally made. Yuman has a large selection of ‘made in Brussels’ items. The Dansasert area has local fashion brands (Café Costume, Komono, Essentiel Antwerp, ICON).
STAY IN A LOCALLY RUN ACCOMMODATION: Instead of staying in a hotel chain, why not stay in a locally run B&B or pick a sustainable boutique hotel.
GETTING THERE: Brussels can easily be reached by train from all major cities including Paris and Amsterdam. Be a conscious traveler and hop on the train!
RECYCLE YOUR TRASH: Belgium does a good job when it comes to recycling. Paper, single-use plastic and organic trash is sorted from the regular trash. Read up on how to recycle (only relevant if you are staying in an Airbnb or B&B).
Practical Tips for Visiting Brussels
LANGUAGE SPOKEN: The official languages spoken in Brussels are Dutch and French. Unofficially however you will find that most signs/informational panels will be in Dutch, French and English.
BRUSSELS CARD: If you are planning on visiting various museums and want to use public transportation in Brussels, I highly recommend investing in the Brussels Card. It includes 41 museums, so is a real money saver!
SUNDAY CLOSING DAY: Sunday is traditionally the day that most stores in the city close. In and around the Grand Place you will find many things open, but the further out you go (i.e. the more local you go) chances are high the store will be closed.
MONDAY CLOSING DAY: Paradoxically Monday is the day many bars and restaurants are closed (not Sunday).
TIPPING IN BELGIUM: Not mandatory, appreciated but not expected as a 6% service charge is already included in the bill.
PAYMENT BY CARD: (Credit) cards are accepted virtually everywhere.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BRUSSELS AND AROUND
Accommodation Guide: Comprehensive overview of the various areas of Brussels and where to stay
Travel Guide: One day in Brussels
Travel Guide: 31 Fun day trips from Brussels
Travel Guide: Hidden gems in Brussels
Travel Guide: 10 Must-see castles around Brussels
Food Guide: Best brunch places in Brussels
Belgium Guide: 16 Castle hotels in Belgium you can stay in
Belgium Guide: 24 Beautiful places in Belgium for your bucketlist
Nicest Places in Brussels: Pin it
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