9 Helpful Tips and Local Advice for Visiting Brussels, Brussels, Belgium

Chances are, if you’re travelling to Belgium then you probably have Brussels in your sights. This complex city is not just the nation’s capital, but also a melting pot of all things Belgium. Finding things to see and do in this city shouldn’t be a challenge, given its long time popularity as a cultured European tourist destination. Even still, it’s worth seeking out tips and advice to maximise your enjoyment when visiting Brussels.

My time in Brussels earlier in the year was divided between my own independent sightseeing around its major attractions and then being shown a more local side to the city from friends who live there. It was fascinating to see how often these two approaches overlapped, but also where they differed. Hence, here is a mixed bag of tourist and local tips for visiting the Belgian capital.

It may be one of the most popular tourist spots, but making your first stop the Grand Place or Grote Markt is a perfect way to start your visit. This main square in the heart of the Old Town is a feast for the eyes, even if you’re sharing it with plenty of other tourists. On each side of the square you’ll see elaborate buildings, from the Town Hall to the neighbouring gothic guild halls. It’s definitely one of the city’s greatest spots. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).