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Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the central hub of the Brussels-Capital Region, comprising 19 municipalities. As a city straddling both the French and Flemish communities, Brussels is renowned for its exceptional performing arts scene and cultural institutions.

Quick facts

Population
—
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
German, French, Dutch
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Local time now
16:43:53

Hotels in Brussels

Brussels offers a range of accommodation options to suit different travellers. From centrally located hotels like Floris Arlequin Grand Place and Agora to well-known establishments such as Hotel Amigo, Hotel Aris, and Mozart, visitors can find suitable lodging across the Belgian capital. See all hotels →

Airports in Brussels

Brussels is served by several airports providing air access to the capital of Belgium. Brussels Airport is the primary commercial hub, with additional facilities including Brussels Military Airport, Beauvechain Air Base, and smaller airfields like Grimbergen Lint and ULM Baisy-Thy serving general aviation needs. See all airports →

Car Hire in Brussels

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Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels offers a rich variety of attractions for visitors to explore. From the Musée de la ville de Bruxelles to historic landmarks like the Maison du Roi, the city provides numerous opportunities to experience Belgian culture and history. See all things to do →

Musée de la ville de Bruxelles - Museum van de Stad Brussel
33 m from centre
Maison du Roi - Broodhuis
37 m from centre
Charles Buls - Karel Buls
39 m from centre
Karl Marx
45 m from centre
Charles Buls - Karel Buls
46 m from centre
Everard 't Serclaes
48 m from centre

Restaurants in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse dining scene with establishments ranging from traditional Belgian fare to contemporary cuisine. Notable restaurants in the city include Le Paon - De Pauw, La Maison du Cygne, La Brouette, The Brothers, and La Rose Blanche, each contributing to the capital's rich culinary landscape. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Brussels

Brussels offers several public swimming facilities for residents and visitors. Popular options include Zwembad Wildersportcomplex and Piscine de Neder-Over-Heembeek, which provide aquatic recreation throughout the year. See all swimming pools →

Spas in Brussels

Brussels offers a range of spa facilities for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. Le Jasmin Wellness is among the spa options available in the city for those looking to unwind during their stay. See all spas →

Nightlife in Brussels

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UMI
100 m from centre
The UpClub
171 m from centre
Le You
234 m from centre

Bars in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse bar scene ranging from traditional brasseries to jazz clubs and intimate venues. Whether you're looking for a casual drink at Brussels Brasserie, live jazz at Toots Jazz Club, or unique atmosphere at bars like Le Cercueil and Che Habana Café, the city has something for every taste. See all bars →

Brussels Brasserie
42 m from centre
Che Habana Café
49 m from centre
Le Cercueil
57 m from centre

Cafes in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse cafe scene, from international chains to local favorites. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee at Starbucks, specialty treats at Bigg Cake, bubble tea at Bubbletearoom.be, or unique experiences at venues like Waffelin and The Sister, the city has something for every cafe enthusiast. See all cafes →

Shopping in Brussels

Brussels offers diverse shopping experiences, from historic arcades like the Galeries royales Saint-Hubert and Galerie Bortier to modern shopping centres such as Agora and Anspach Shopping. Whether you're seeking international brands or local finds, the city's retail landscape has something for every shopper. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Brussels

Brussels offers visitors and residents a variety of parks and gardens to enjoy nature in the heart of the city. From the Jardin du Mont des Arts to the Parc de la Cathédrale Saints-Michel-et-Gudule and Parc Simone de Beauvoir, these green spaces provide peaceful retreats throughout the urban landscape. See all nature & wildlife →

Parc de la Cathédrale Saints-Michel-et-Gudule - Park voor de Kathedraal Sint-Michiel en Goedele
405 m from centre
Place de Dinant - Dinantplein
444 m from centre
Jardin du Mont des Arts - Tuin van de Kunstberg
452 m from centre
Square Salvador Allende - Salvador Allende Square
509 m from centre
Parc Simone de Beauvoir - Simone de Beauvoirpark
538 m from centre
Jardin de Sculptures - Beeldhouwtuin
675 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Brussels experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. The city sees moderate rainfall throughout the year, with weather conditions typical of northern Europe.

Interesting Facts About Brussels — Weird & Wonderful

  • Brussels is home to the King Baudouin Stadium, Belgium's largest concert and competition facility with a 50,000 seat capacity.
  • The city hosts the Kunstenfestivaldesarts, an international performing arts festival held every year in May that spans approximately 30 venues across the city.
  • Brussels is the seat of the Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR), which hosts the prestigious annual Queen Elisabeth Competition for classical singers and instrumentalists.
  • The Brussels-Capital Region forms an enclave within Flanders and is part of both the French and Flemish communities simultaneously.
  • Jazz Station in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode functions as both a museum and archive dedicated to jazz, as well as an active concert venue.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Brussels

May
Kunstenfestivaldesarts
An international performing arts festival organised every year with its main hub at the Kaaitheater, featuring performances and artworks hosted in around 30 venues throughout the city.
Queen Elisabeth Competition
An annual competition for classical singers and instrumentalists held at the Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR), recognised as one of the most challenging and prestigious competitions of its kind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

What is the currency used in Brussels?

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of Brussels, as it is part of Belgium and the Eurozone.

What languages are spoken in Brussels?

Brussels is part of both the French Community and Flemish Community of Belgium, so both French and Dutch (Flemish) are spoken in the city.

What region is Brussels located in?

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the central hub of the Brussels-Capital Region, which comprises 19 municipalities and is located in the central portion of the country.

What is Brussels known for culturally?

Brussels is renowned for its performing arts scene, hosting prestigious institutions like the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, the Kaaitheater, and BOZAR, as well as the annual Kunstenfestivaldesarts festival.

What major cultural competitions are held in Brussels?

Brussels hosts the Queen Elisabeth Competition, one of the most challenging and prestigious competitions for classical singers and instrumentalists, held annually at the Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR).

Map of Brussels

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