We’ve got some tips to help you make the most of your holiday in Brussels.
Tours
Chocolate Tours
Explore Europe’s chocolate capital. From walking tours to factory visits, immerse yourself in the world of the chocolate maker.
Brussels Chocolate Tours
Tour the city with a 2.5 hour walking tour. See the sights whilst you learn the history of chocolate – and no tour would be complete without a few tasting sessions.
http://www.brusselschocolatetours.com/
Planete Chocolat
From chocolate workshops and demonstrations to tours, discover the wonders of chocolate production with one of the city’s artisanal producers.
http://www.planetechocolat.com/en/content/6-brussels-chocolate-factory-visit-demonstration
Marolles
“More than just a flea market, it’s an atmosphere”. This flea market is perfect to find an unusual little trinket to take home with you. Spend a morning browsing the quality antiques, handcrafts, ornaments and much more. Open 7 days a week, this is the perfect place to have a wander at any point of your stay.
Regulars say that the best days to go are Thursday and Friday, but during Friday and Saturday you are likely to find rare pieces or more specific goods that only come out at the weekend.
Whilst in the area, discover the antique dealers and second hand goods shops in the surrounding area, especially Rue Blase and Rue Haute.
Location: Place du Jeu de Balle 1000 Brussles
Metro: Station Gare du Midi (approx. 10 mins walk)
Opening Hours & Admission:
- Mon – Fri: 6am – 2pm
- Sat – Sun: 6am – 3pm
Rue des Bouchers
In a lively little quarter known as Ilôt Sacré is the famous Rue des Bouchers. Whether you decide to eat at one of the many seafood restaurants here or not, this antique looking cobbled street is a spectacle not to be missed.
Both sides of the street are packed with tables for dining throughout the year – overhead heaters keep frostbite at bay in winter. The restaurants have been described as hit and miss but if you know where to go, it really iis a fantastic place. We recommend Chez Léon.
Location: Rue des Bouchers | 1000 Brussles
Metro: De Brouckere
Opening Hours:
Sun – Thurs: 11am – 1pm
Fri – Sat: 11am – 11.30pm
Musee Van Buuren
Bought in 1928 by David van Buuren, this museum is entirely unique and well worth a visit. With outdoor architecture typical of a Dutch school, inside the décor characterises the Art-Deco movement, popular during the 1920s and 30s. Now open to the public as per Alice van Buuren’s request, you can spend an afternoon exploring the rare furniture, carpets, stained glass windows, sculptures and international masterpieces.
When you have thoroughly explored the house, step into the 1.5-hectare garden. Perfectly complementing the villa, the picturesque garden is art in itself.
Location: Avenue Léo Errera 41 | 1180 Brussels
Tram: 3, 7, 4
Open: Mon-Sun (2pm-5.30pm) (excluding Tues)
Admission: €10 per adult
Am Sweet
Spiralling over two floors and several rooms, this charming café on a village-like street resembles a Parisian apartment, with small metal tables, chairs in striped calico slip-covers, shelves of well-thumbed books, and framed watercolours resting against the walls.
Not only is it a delightful spot for brunch or a fragrant tea, but the ground floor stocks an enticing array of sweets, including Laurent Gerbaud chocolates.
This little gem is run by a lovely couple and their dog, Cézanne. Alongside their sit-down menu, they also offer a lot of little goodies to go, so whether you want to sit back and relax or pop in for a quick refreshment, Am Sweet is well worth a visit.
Location: Kartuizerstraat 4 | 1000 Brussels
Metro: De Brouckere
Opening Hours & Admission:
Tues: 12pm – 6.30pm
Weds – Sat: 9.30am – 6.30pm
Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts
The Musée Royaux de Beaux-Arts are a collection of national museums which include both modern and historical art museums. With a wonderful collection of Flemish works the Musée Royaux de Beaux-Arts is the perfect place to spend an afternoon for any art enthusiast. Look out for works by Rembrandt and Rubens whilst visiting.
Location: Rue de la Régence 3
Metro: 1-5 (Gare Centrale or Parc)
Tram: 92-94 (Royal)
Open: Tues-Fri (10am-5pm), Sat-Sun (11am-6pm)
Admission: €8 per adult
More Information: http://www.fine-arts-museum.be/
Food and Drink
Aux Armes de Bruxelles
For some traditional Belgian cuisine head to Aux Armes de Bruxelles and try the Moules.
Location: 13 Rue des Bouchers
Open: Mon-Fri (12pm-10:45pm), Sat (until 11:15pm), Sun (until 10:30pm)
Phone: +32 (0)2 511 98/50
Sea Grill
Wit two Michelin stars and a menu that varies to highlight the catch of the day, Sea Grill is the perfect place for an indulgent dinner.
Location: Rue Fosse-aux-Loups 47
Open: Mon-Fri (12pm-2pm and 7pm-10pm)
Phone: +32 2 212 08 00
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Useful Contacts
European Emergency Call – 112