Brussels (Brussel in Flemish), the beating heart of Belgium and the de facto Capital of the European Union, is a vibrant city that blends regal history with institutional modernity. Its symbol, the Grand-Place (Grote Markt), is an absolute masterpiece of Flemish Baroque and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place worth visiting at sunset to appreciate its magical illumination. Brussels is also the ideal location to discover Art Nouveau by Victor Horta, the rich culture of beer, and, of course, the famous Belgian chocolate.

What Our Local Guides Recommend: Architecture, Art, and Institutions

• Grand-Place (Grote Markt) – The city's living room, surrounded by magnificent guild houses and the City Hall. We recommend visiting it both day and night to enjoy its two different atmospheres.
• Atomium – Futuristic icon, built for the 1958 Expo. Going up to admire the city panorama is an unmissable experience.
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts – An exceptional collection of ancient and modern art, featuring Flemish masterpieces.
• Art Nouveau Quarter – Explore the Saint-Gilles or Ixelles neighborhoods to admire the houses of Victor Horta, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Visit the Horta Museum.

Gastronomy and Typical Products: Belgian Excellence

• Belgian Chocolate – Luxury boutiques like Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus are a must to taste elite pralines.
• Frites and French Fries – An institution. Enjoy them at a Fritkot (kiosk) with one of the many typical sauces.
• Belgian Beer – From Trappist to Lambic, the variety is immense. We recommend a tasting at the Delirium Café.
• Stoemp and Carbonnade Flamande – Traditional dishes based on beef stew cooked in beer (Carbonnade) and vegetable mash (Stoemp).

Getting Around and Travel Tips

• Public Transport – The STIB manages the metro, tram, and bus network. The center is easily explored on foot or by bicycle.
• Best Experience – Combine a visit to the EU institutions (European Parliament) with the exploration of the historic center and a guided beer tasting tour.
• Events – The Flower Carpet, held every two years in August on the Grand-Place, is a unique visual spectacle.

Institutional Links

• Official Brussels Tourism Website
• Official Website of Belgium

Top 5 Luxury and Charming Accommodations

• Hotel Amigo – Luxurious and situated in an unbeatable location, a short walk from the Grand-Place.
• Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo – Perfect blend of elegance and modern design in the heart of the city.
• Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels – 5-star hotel in British style, known for its tranquility in the European quarter.
• Hotel Metropole – A historic institution, a magnificent example of Belle Époque architecture.
• Juliana Hotel Brussels – Luxurious boutique hotel that combines modern design and art collections.

Top 5 Recommended Restaurants (Starred)

• Comme chez Soi ( Michelin Stars) – An institution of Belgian gastronomy, Art Nouveau setting and refined dishes.
• Bon-Bon ( Michelin Stars) – Creative cuisine by Chef Christophe Hardiquest, a top-level culinary experience.
• La Paix ( Michelin Stars) – Located near the slaughterhouse, it offers cuisine focused on the absolute quality of meats and produce.
• Bozar Brasserie (Michelin Star) – Elegance in the Palace of Fine Arts, with a modern gastronomic offering.
• Sea Grill (Michelin Star) – For fish lovers, a high-class restaurant specializing in seafood.