The Top 10 Things To Do Near The Grand Place Brussels

Although Brussels may have the reputation of being the ‘capital of the European Union,’ spending a few days in the city are enough to prove that there is much more to do and see than just the EU. One of the most popular areas of Brussels, however, is the Grand Place at the heart of the city center – here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of this cultural hotspot.

1. Taste the local or international cuisine

Restaurant, Belgian

Also called ‘the stomach of Brussels,’ Rue des Bouchers is home to several local and international restaurants. Even if some don’t find this street particularly tempting, it is definitely worth passing by and trying your luck in tasting the famous Moules Frites or an authentic Italian pizza. Otherwise, you can get the full Belgian traditional experience at the Aux Armes de Bruxelles restaurant. For those who prefer the traditional waffles or frites, the city is filled with a variety of places to choose from, where you can never go wrong.

Brussels’ museums

If you are more of an indoor explorer, don’t forget to stop by one or more of Brussels’ museums or art collections. Stad Museum, the Museum of Chocolate or the Music Museum are all conveniently located near this area. If you would like to get the ‘full package,’ the perfect choice would be the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Housing a collection of 20,000 works of art, distributed over six galleries (four of them to be found on 10 different levels within the same building), the RMFAB is a worthwhile destination. Keep in mind that even the museum’s staff suggest to reserve a full day for visiting, if you really want to check out all the exhibitions.
Musée Fin-de-Siècle; Musée Old Master; Musée Modern; Musée Magritte – (entrance through) Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Musée Meunier – Rue de l’Abbaye, 59, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
Musée Wiertz – Rue Vautier, 62 1050 Brussels, Belgium

Take a pit stop at one of the many bars and pubs

When it comes to getting a drink or two, Brussels surely has some aces up its sleeve. In the case of Delirium Café, the bar has a variety of more than 2,000 types of beer – both Belgian and international. Another place worth visiting is Gopuil le Fol: a bar with fascinatingly weird yet amazing décor, French music playing from the jukebox and more than four different rooms where you can enjoy their special vin au fruits.
Delirium Café – Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Goupil le Fol – Rue de la Violette 22, 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Attend a Jam Session

Many bars and restaurants in the city center are well-known for their open-stage nights, where local and international artists perform and then invite members of the audience to become part of the show. You can bring your own instrument or use the bands’, and share your love for music with the public.
Café Floreo, Rue des Riches Claires 19, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Café Kafka, Rue des Poissonniers 21, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Soul Inn, Plattesteen 18, 1000 Brussels, Belgium