There’s a version of Brussels that gets a bad reputation — grey, bureaucratic, a city you pass through rather than stay in. I get it. I had that impression too before I actually went.

Then I spent a long weekend there and completely changed my mind. The Grand Place genuinely stopped me in my tracks — it’s one of the most beautiful city squares in Europe, full stop. The beer culture is extraordinary. The chocolate is as good as the stereotype promises. And I can’t think of many European cities where you can eat quite so well, quite so casually, for quite so little money. Add a neighbourhood like the Sablon — all antique shops, Art Nouveau cafés, and praline windows — and you start to understand why people who actually know Brussels are always a bit smug about it.

Here’s what to put on your Brussels bucket list.

VISITING BRUSSELS: THE ESSENTIALS

Getting There / Brussels is one of the easiest European cities to reach from London — the Eurostar from St Pancras to Brussels Midi takes around 2 hours. Book your Eurostar on Trainline for the best fares and flexible ticket options. Flying in from further afield? Book a private airport transfer with WelcomePickups so there’s no taxi-hunting after a long flight.

Tours / Brussels rewards a guided experience. The best ones to book in advance:
Brussels Grand Place & City Walking Tour
Belgian Beer World Entrance Ticket
Brussels Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tour
Brussels Beer & Chocolate Tour with Hungry Mary
Brussels Chocolate Making Workshop

Stay / Brussels has a great range of accommodation from well-located budget hostels to genuinely luxurious hotels a short walk from the Grand Place.

Budget: Meininger Brussels City Center
Mid-range: Hotel Chambord
Splurge: Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo

Car Rental / Planning a day trip to Waterloo, Dinant, or the Ardennes countryside? Hiring a car gives you a lot more flexibility. Compare prices on DiscoverCars.

Connect / Stay connected from the moment you arrive with an eSIM. I use Sim Local and you can get 5% discount with code TRAVELWITHPAU.

Get Insured / Things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for over 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.