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Brussels

Brussels, officially the Brussels-Capital Region, is the capital of Belgium and comprises 19 municipalities at the heart of the country. This dynamic city is renowned for its thriving performing arts scene and world-class cultural institutions.

Quick facts

Population
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
German, French, Dutch
Timezone
CEST (UTC+2)
Local time now
14:23:13

Hotels in Brussels

Brussels offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from well-established hotels like Hotel Amigo and Floris Arlequin Grand Place to boutique properties such as Mozart and Hotel Aris. Whether you're exploring the city's historic Grand Place or business districts, these hotels provide convenient bases for your Brussels visit. See all hotels →

Airports in Brussels

Brussels is served by several airports providing access to the city and surrounding regions. Brussels Airport is the main commercial hub, while additional facilities like Brussels Military Airport and Beauvechain Air Base serve specialized aviation needs. See all airports →

Car Hire in Brussels

We're still gathering car hire listings for Brussels — check back soon.

Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels offers a rich selection of cultural attractions and historic sites for visitors. Explore renowned museums like the Musée de la ville de Bruxelles and iconic landmarks such as the Maison du Roi to experience the city's heritage and charm. 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 cuisine to contemporary European fare. Notable restaurants in the city include Le Paon - De Pauw, La Maison du Cygne, La Brouette, The Brothers, and La Rose Blanche. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Brussels

Brussels offers several public swimming pools for residents and visitors. Notable facilities include Piscine de Neder-Over-Heembeek and Zwembad Wildersportcomplex, which provide swimming and aquatic activities year-round. See all swimming pools →

Spas in Brussels

Brussels offers a selection of wellness destinations for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Le Jasmin Wellness is among the spa options available in the city for visitors and locals looking to unwind. See all spas →

Nightlife in Brussels

We're still gathering nightlife listings for Brussels — check back soon.

Bars in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse bar scene ranging from traditional brasseries to intimate jazz venues. Whether you're looking for a casual drink at Brussels Brasserie, exploring Latin vibes at Che Habana Café, or catching live jazz at Toots Jazz Club, the city's bars reflect its cosmopolitan character and welcoming atmosphere. 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, artisan waffles at Waffelin, or specialty bubble tea at Bubbletearoom.be, the city has options to suit every taste. See all cafes →

Shopping in Brussels

Brussels offers diverse shopping experiences across its city center, from historic arcades like the Galeries royales Saint-Hubert - Koninklijke Sint-Hubertusgalerijen and Galerie Bortier - Bortiergalerij to modern shopping centers such as Anspach Shopping and Agora. Whether you're looking for international brands at HEMA or browsing independent boutiques, Brussels has something for every shopper. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Brussels

Brussels offers numerous parks and gardens for nature lovers to explore. From the Jardin du Mont des Arts to Parc Simone de Beauvoir, the city's green spaces provide peaceful retreats in the heart of the Belgian capital. 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
541 m from centre
Jardin de Sculptures - Beeldhouwtuin
675 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Brussels experiences a temperate maritime climate typical of northern Europe, with mild summers and cool, damp winters. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, making an umbrella a practical companion for visitors.

Interesting Facts About Brussels — Weird & Wonderful

  • The Kunstenfestivaldesarts, an international performing arts festival held every May, uses around 30 venues throughout the city as its performance spaces.
  • The King Baudouin Stadium is the largest concert and competition facility in Belgium, with a 50,000 seat capacity.
  • The Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR) is home to the National Orchestra of Belgium and hosts the annual Queen Elisabeth Competition, one of the most prestigious classical music competitions worldwide.
  • Brussels is part of both the French Community of Belgium and the Flemish Community, making it uniquely bicultural.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Brussels

May
Kunstenfestivaldesarts
An international performing arts festival organised every year, with its main hub at the Kaaitheater and performances and artworks hosted in around 30 venues throughout the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

What is the official status of Brussels?

Brussels is officially the Brussels-Capital Region and serves as the capital of Belgium. It comprises 19 municipalities and is located in the central portion of the country.

What language is spoken in Brussels?

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

Is Brussels known for performing arts?

Yes, Brussels is well known for its performing arts scene, with notable institutions including the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, the Royal Park Theatre, the Théâtre Royal des Galeries, and the Kaaitheater.

What major festivals does Brussels host?

The Kunstenfestivaldesarts, an international performing arts festival organised every year in May, is one of Brussels' most notable events, featuring performances and artworks across around 30 venues throughout the city.

Are there jazz venues in Brussels?

Yes, the Jazz Station in Saint-Josse-ten-Noode serves as both a museum and archive on jazz as well as a venue for jazz concerts.

Map of Brussels

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