Things to do in Brussels

11th July 2022

World famous for its beer and chocolate as well as its architecture, history and political associations. Brussels is considered to be the capital of Europe, and therefore it’s a must-see location for anyone visiting Europe. Here is a collection of some of Stansted Express’s top hotels and must-see attractions that you should visit whilst in Brussels.

Where to stay in Brussels:

Meininger Hotel

Located in an old brewing house in the centre of Brussels, Meininger accommodates for the needs of all its guests, whether it’s a family, business or group trip to Brussels, Meininger offers affordable and comfortable accommodation. Claiming to be “the affordable family hotel”, Meininger’s goal is to make family trips affordable, offering up to 15% off room prices for children up to the age of 12. As well as being affordable for families, Meininger hotels ensure the comfort of families, offering family suites that can have up to 8 beds, as well as offering guests free cots for smaller children.

As well as catering for families, Meininger accommodates for backpackers offering them comfortable, clean and affordable rooms, perfect for travellers exploring the city. Each guest kitchen is equipped with a washing machine which guests can use for a small fee, helping you stay fresh whilst exploring Brussels.

Hotel Hubert

Located in the heart of Brussels, Hotel Hubert is only a short walk from Grand Place and Brussels Central Station. Designed to offer guests ultimate comfort throughout their stay, Hotel Hubert intends to emulate a home from home for its guests. With 100 rooms, all with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, televisions, refrigerators, and private modern bathrooms, guests can unwind in ultimate comfort. Fuel up for the day by visiting Foodmaker, conveniently located on the ground floor of the hotel, although Foodmaker is not included in the price of your room it is one of the best places to visit for a fresh tasty meal in the surrounding area.

Vintage Hotel Brussels

With 38 unique guest rooms, including the option to stay in an ‘Airstream Caravan’, Vintage Hotel offers guests a unique place to say whilst discovering Brussels. Vintage Hotel is the perfect accommodating for couples or small families exploring the city with their ‘Dreamy’ suite comfortably sleeping up to 4 guests. Unwind after a busy day of sightseeing at the hotels Boutique Bar and enjoy a selection of fine wines and Belgian beers. Nestled just outside the centre of Brussels, Vintage Hotels has the fashionable Avenue Louise on its doorstep and is just a short walk from the Grand Place, making it an ideal place to whilst staying in Brussels.

Where to visit in Brussels:

Atomium

Designed and built as the showcase of the Brussels World’s Fair in 1958, this unique landmark has become one of the most famous symbols of not only Brussels but Belgium as a whole. In the early 2000’s, the Atomium was transformed into an art centre and museum that welcomes over 600,000 visitors a year. See Brussels like never before at the Atomium with panoramic views of the city. When skies are clear, visitors may even catch a glance of Antwerp!

Grand Place

Considered to be one of the most beautiful squares in the world, Grand Place is one of Belgium’s most important landmarks and a must-see when staying in Brussels. Step back in time and awe at the Gothic and Baroque architecture dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries. Marvel at the ornate town hall, which is a still fully functioning political hub today. UNESCO recognised the importance and beauty of the Grand Place in 1998, granting the square the title of a World Heritage Site.

Whilst visiting Grand Place keep an eye-out for the world-famous statue Manneken Pis which has become an emblem of the rebellious spirit of Brussels. Located just southwest of the town hall, Manneken Pis is statue that is always photo ready, dressed to impress for any occasion with the statue having over 900 alternating costumes throughout the year.

Brussels Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate

Belgian is infamous for its chocolate, so why not immerse yourself in a word of chocolate by visiting a museum exclusively dedicated to cocoa and chocolate. Watch Belgian chocolatiers transform melted chocolate into pralines and decorative treats, with options to taste the chocolate throughout the process. After watching and tasting the process of making Belgian chocolate, discover the deep and rich history of chocolate through various exhibitions. From the 16th century to the present day, you’ll see how the glorious process of chocolate has changed over the years. For any chocolate lover the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate is a must-see when visiting Brussels.

Comic Strip Trail

Comic books and characters are a huge part of life in Belgium, with more than 700 comic strip authors residing in Belgium. Characters such as the Smurfs and Tintin were created in Brussels and murals devoted to the characters are dotted throughout the city. Follow the comic book trail to see a new side to the famous characters, while you wander the very streets that inspired the authors that brought them to life. However, if all that walking doesn’t sound appealing to you, don’t worry! You can also uncover Brussel’s rich history of comic book art by visiting the Comic Art Museum, which welcomes over 200,000 visitors a year.

Hungry Mary Food Tours

Combine wandering the streets of Brussels with tasting some of Brussels most famous delicacies. Hungry Mary offers walking tours around the streets of Brussels which incorporates tasting over 20 Belgian specialities, including a selection of some of Brussel’s finest beers and chocolates, with sightseeing.

Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts, translating to Mount of the Arts, is an architectural and historic landmark that has existed for over 200 years and is one of Brussels’ most popular tourist spots. The Mont des Arts offers some of the finest views of Brussels, including a panoramic view of the city centre, Grand Place and the Place Royale.

Places to eat and drink:

Monk

Do you want to feel like a local? Monk is a Belgian café which offers visitors an authentic Belgian experience. Beers, spaghetti and Belgian delicacies – Monk does it all. Listen to the stories of locals and the travels of tourists over a pint of authentic Belgian beer.

Café Le Cirio

Café Le Cirio is a traditional Belgian brasserie and one of Brussel’s most famous cafés. Marvel at the Art-Nouveau architecture of Café Le Ciro that dates back to 1886. Café Le Cirio was once a hub for the intellectuals of the 19th century, with Victor Hugo once being a regular to the establishment. Not only does Café Le Cirio have a rich history, but it’s also infamous in Brussels, adored by locals and tourists alike.

Gaufres and Waffles

Belgium is famous for waffles, and therefore whilst in Brussels you must try an authentic Belgian waffle. There are numerous establishments that sell traditional sweet waffles, however, Gaufres and Waffles incorporates the traditonal Belgian waffle with fresh and unique flavours. Whether it is a sweet or savoury waffle you desire, Gaufres and Waffles has you covered!

If you are flying to Brussels, Stansted Express ensures hassle free transfers to Stansted Airport with tickets starting from just £9.50. What’s the wait? Book your tickets now and explore the wonders of Brussels!