Encased Capital Brussels

The capital of Belgium is laid out much like one of its signature praline chocolates. Encircling boulevards, once a perimeter wall, form the chocolate casing, while the city centre resembles the soft fondant within. Known as the 'Pentagon' due to its similar shape, this area hosts the majority of Brussels' historic sites. To put the theory to the test with your taste buds, numerous chocolate shops sell iconic pralines in beautifully crafted gift boxes.

A-Star Architecture

Grand Place, the central square, captivates all eyes and lives up to its name. Baroque and neo-Gothic buildings line the perimeter, featuring the last surviving Medieval building—the town hall—with a towering spire. Recognized as a UNESCO-protected site, every August, it transforms into a vast, kaleidoscopic flower carpet adorned with intricate patterns and designs. As you stroll away from the centre, Art Nouveau townhouses inspired by architect Victor Horta come into view. Don't miss the city's most famous statue—the Manneken Pis—a fountain depicting a little boy urinating, with his iconic image featured on various souvenirs.

Big on Beer

Belgium's dedication to the beer scene is well-known, but Brussels elevates the experience with its array of cool cafés, known as estaminets. These establishments focus on enjoying a snack and a quality tipple rather than downing pint after pint. Belgian beers, often stronger, are served in smaller measures. While most places offer a good variety, the Delirium Café stands out with a menu boasting more than 2,000 options. Pair your drink with fries and mayo-style frite sauce, moules frites, fully loaded mitraillette baguettes, or sweet Belgian waffles.

Museums Galore

Culture takes centre stage in Brussels, with an abundance of museums scattered near the Mountain of Arts—a park-draped hillside. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium house over 20,000 paintings and sculptures, while the Magritte Museum pays homage to one of the nation's revered artists. Quirkier options include the Belgian Comic Strip Center dedicated to the history of cartoons, including Belgium's Tintin, and the Musical Instruments Museum displaying 700 items dating back to the Middle Ages.