10 Fun Things to Do in Brussels on a Budget, Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is more than just politics and parliamentary buildings. It is indeed home to both NATO and the EU headquarters, but it is also a charming and colorful city with a playful and humorous vibe.

Here are 10 suggestions for things to do in Brussels if it’s your first time visiting the city. And the best part? Much of it is completely free!

The “Main Square” in Brussels is called Grand-Place in French and Grote Markt in Dutch. It is one of the city’s most visited attractions and is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. The square is very central, so you will likely cross it several times during your trip.

The Grand-Place is surrounded by historic buildings in various styles. Among the most famous are the Town Hall, which was built in the 15th century, and the so-called “Bread House” (Broodhuis), which is now called Maison de Roi.

The Bread House was originally a wooden building where bakers sold their bread at the market. Later, it was replaced by the Duke’s House, and today it is a museum that provides insight into Brussels’ history from the Middle Ages to the present.

Belgium has many Gothic churches, which are my favorite architectural style. One of these is Belgium’s cathedral and national church built in Brabantine Gothic style. The towers are built in French Gothic style and resemble Notre Dame in Paris. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).