The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Expo. It represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and has exhibitions and a restaurant with panoramic views.

The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair (Expo 58). It stands 102 m (335 ft) tall. Its nine 18 m (59 ft) diameter stainless steel clad spheres are connected so that the whole forms the shape of a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Tubes connect the spheres along the 12 edges of the cube and all eight vertices to the centre. They enclose escalators and a lift to allow access to the five habitable spheres which contain exhibit halls and other public spaces. The top sphere provides a panoramic view of Brussels. /n CNN named it Europe's most bizarre building. A symbol of Brussels and Belgium, the Atomium receives more than 600,000 visitors per year. It hosts permanent and temporary exhibits and also has a restaurant with panoramic views.

The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels, originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair.

Mini-Europe is a miniature park located in Bruparck at the foot of the Atomium. Here you can have a whistle-stop tour around Europe in a few short hours. Roughly 80 cities and 350 buildings are represented.

Mini-Europe is a unique attraction located in Brussels. The park features over 350 miniatures that represent the most famous landmarks from across Europe. /n Visitors can walk around the park and see the Eiffel Tower, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Acropolis, and many other landmarks, all in miniature form. The park also offers interactive exhibits and a guide that provides information about each landmark. It's a fun and educational way to explore Europe without leaving Brussels.

A miniature park featuring replicas of famous European landmarks.

Known as one of the most beautiful squares in the world, Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit in Brussels. It's surrounded by opulent guildhalls and two larger edifices, the city's Town Hall, and the King's House or Breadhouse.

Grand Place is the central square of Brussels. It is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and two larger edifices, the city's Town Hall, and the King's House or Breadhouse building containing the Museum of the City of Brussels. The square is the most important tourist destination and most memorable landmark in Brussels. It measures 68 by 110 metres (223 by 361 ft), and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. /n Every two years in August, an enormous 'flower carpet' is set up in the Grand Place for a few days. A million colourful begonias are set up in patterns, and the display covers a full 24 by 77 metres (79 by 253 ft), for area total of 1,800 square metres (19,000 sq ft). The first flower carpet was made in 1971, and due to its popularity, the tradition continued, with the flower carpet attracting a large number of tourists.

Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and Brussels' central square.

A complex of monumental heated greenhouses in the park of the Royal Palace of Laeken. It's an example of 19th-century greenhouse architecture.

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a stunning architectural and horticultural attraction located in Brussels, Belgium. These historic greenhouses, built in the 19th century, are home to a vast collection of exotic plants and flowers from around the world. /n The greenhouses are a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, with their intricate ironwork and large glass panels. They are open to the public for a few weeks each year during the spring, when the flowers are in full bloom. During this time, visitors can explore the greenhouses and marvel at the vast collection of plants and flowers. The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, horticulture, or simply looking for a unique and beautiful attraction in Brussels.

The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a stunning architectural and horticultural attraction in Brussels.

A museum dedicated to Belgian comic strip art. It's housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is a museum dedicated to Belgian comic strips. It is housed in a former department store, designed by Victor Horta, a famous Belgian architect. The museum has several permanent exhibitions, including a large section dedicated to The Adventures of Tintin, as well as temporary exhibitions. /n The museum also has a library and a comic book shop. The building, which is one of the major Art Nouveau masterpieces in Brussels, was saved from demolition and renovated by the architect Jean Breydel. The museum opened to the public on 6 October 1989. It quickly became a major tourist attraction in Brussels, and it is now one of the most visited museums in the city.

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is a museum dedicated to Belgian comic strips.

A historic site offering panoramic views of Brussels and home to several cultural institutions including the Royal Library and the National Archives.

Mont des Arts is a historic site in Brussels with a public garden and a complex of cultural buildings. The area is surrounded by the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium, the Square – Brussels Meeting Centre, and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. /n The Mont des Arts offers one of Brussels' most memorable views, stretching from the Brussels City Hall and the Brussels Town Hall in the Grand Place to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The Mont des Arts garden is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The garden, designed by landscape architect René Pechère, consists of a geometric pattern of 20 small gardens separated by paths, each garden having its own theme: the Garden of the Great Feelings, the Garden of the Heart, the Garden of the Senses, the Garden of the Great Passions, and so on.

Mont des Arts is a historic site in Brussels with a public garden and a complex of cultural buildings.

A large public park with monuments including the Triumphal Arch, museums, and beautiful gardens.

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large public park in Brussels. It was created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence and features a number of monuments, museums, and a triumphal arch. /n The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a great place to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll. The park also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. The museums located in the park cover a range of topics, from military history to art and history, making it a cultural hub in the city.

A large public park featuring monuments, museums, and a triumphal arch.

The Triumphal Arch is a monumental structure located in the Cinquantenaire park. It was built to commemorate Belgium's independence and is a significant architectural landmark in the city.

The Triumphal Arch in Brussels, Belgium, is a grand monument that stands as a symbol of Belgian independence. It's an impressive architectural feat, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The arch was commissioned by King Leopold II and was completed in 1880 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. /n The Triumphal Arch is located in the Cinquantenaire park, a large public park in the easternmost part of the European Quarter in Brussels. The arch is flanked by two large buildings, which house several museums. The whole complex is a great place to visit for those interested in architecture, history, and culture. From the top of the arch, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The park surrounding the arch also offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, with beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues.

The Triumphal Arch in Brussels is a grand monument that stands as a symbol of Belgian independence.

The Museum of Natural Sciences is a museum dedicated to natural history, particularly dinosaurs. It is one of the most popular museums in Brussels.

The Natural Sciences Museum in Brussels, Belgium, is a renowned institution dedicated to the study and display of natural history. It's a must-visit for science and nature enthusiasts, with exhibits ranging from dinosaur fossils to mineral collections. The museum is home to the largest dinosaur gallery in Europe, boasting an impressive collection of original fossils and replicas. /n In addition to its dinosaur exhibits, the museum also features a variety of other displays. These include a mineral hall, a biodiversity exhibit, and a section dedicated to human evolution and the human body. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and workshops, making it a popular destination for school trips. Whether you're a science enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational day out, the Natural Sciences Museum in Brussels is well worth a visit.

The Natural Sciences Museum in Brussels is a must-visit for science and nature enthusiasts.

Experience the heart of Europe in Brussels, Belgium. This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and architectural styles. Marvel at the iconic Atomium, a unique steel structure, and the stunning Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the city's rich history at the Royal Palace and the Brussels City Museum. Indulge in world-famous Belgian chocolates, waffles, and beers. Wander through the charming streets of the Marolles district, known for its antique shops and flea market. Visit the European Parliament to understand the city's role as the capital of the European Union. Brussels offers a blend of modernity and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Atomium

Mini-Europe

Grand Place

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Atomium, a unique piece of architecture that offers panoramic views of the city. It's a great place for kids to learn about science and technology.

Enjoy a traditional Belgian lunch in a family-friendly restaurant near the Atomium. Try some of the local delicacies like moules-frites (mussels and fries) or a hearty stew.

After lunch, head to Mini-Europe, a miniature park located at the foot of the Atomium. It features replicas of Europe's most famous landmarks, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the city center. Belgian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with influences from France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

End your day with a leisurely stroll around the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is beautifully lit up at night, offering a magical atmosphere.

Exploring Laeken and the City Center

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Mont des Arts

Begin your second day with a visit to the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. These stunning Art Nouveau greenhouses are only open for a few weeks each year, so make sure to check the opening dates.

Have lunch in a charming café in the city center. Try a traditional Belgian waffle or a sandwich made with local ingredients.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Belgian Comic Strip Center. This museum is dedicated to Belgian comic strip art and is a must-see for fans of Tintin, The Smurfs, and other famous Belgian comics.

Dine in a restaurant that offers a variety of Belgian dishes. Don't forget to try a Belgian beer, which is considered some of the best in the world.

End your day with a visit to the Mont des Arts, a hill offering one of the best views of the city. It's a great spot for family photos.

Art, Comics and Views in the City Center

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Triumphal Arch

Natural Sciences Museum

Start your final day with a visit to the Parc du Cinquantenaire, a large public park that's perfect for a morning stroll. The park is home to several museums and monuments, including the impressive Triumphal Arch.

Enjoy lunch in a restaurant near the park. Try a traditional Belgian dish like carbonade flamande, a beef stew made with beer.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Natural Sciences Museum, which features a wide range of exhibits, including a dinosaur gallery that's sure to impress the kids.

Have your final dinner in a restaurant in the city center. Try a traditional Belgian dessert like speculoos cookies or a Liege waffle.

End your trip with a leisurely walk around the city center, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere one last time.

Parks, Museums and Farewell to Brussels

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Brussels is a compact city, and many of the main sights are within walking distance of each other. It's a great way to take in the city's beautiful architecture and vibrant street life.

Brussels has a well-developed network of bike lanes, and the city's Villo! bike-sharing scheme has stations all over the city. You can rent a bike for a short period or for the whole day.

Brussels has an extensive public transport system, including trams, buses, and the metro. The metro is the quickest way to get around, while trams and buses cover more ground. Tickets are valid across all modes of transport.

Taxis are plentiful in Brussels and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from taxi ranks. They are metered and can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're travelling with luggage.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Brussels. This can be a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You'll need to download the app and have an internet connection to use this service.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're planning to explore the wider region around Brussels. However, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center.

Brussels has an extensive train network, with frequent services to suburbs and other Belgian cities. The main stations are Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Brussels North.

Brussels is crisscrossed by a network of canals, and a boat tour can be a relaxing way to see the city. However, boats are more for sightseeing than getting from A to B.

Mussels and fries is a classic Belgian dish, especially popular in Brussels. The mussels are usually steamed with celery and onions in a pot with a lid and served with a side of fries.

Moules Frites

Belgian waffles are a popular treat in Brussels. They are often served warm and dusted with powdered sugar, but can also be topped with whipped cream, strawberries, or chocolate sauce.

Belgian Waffles

Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and Brussels is home to some of the country's finest chocolatiers. Belgian chocolate is known for its high quality and rich flavor.

Belgian Chocolate

Stoemp is a traditional Belgian dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with other vegetables, such as carrots, onions, or spinach. It's a hearty and comforting dish often enjoyed in Brussels.

Stoemp

Waterzooi is a creamy soup originally from Belgium. It's typically made with chicken or fish, vegetables, cream, and eggs. It's a popular dish in Brussels, especially during the colder months.

Waterzooi

Carbonnade Flamande is a traditional Belgian beef stew. It's made with beer, onions, and brown sugar, giving it a unique sweet and sour flavor. It's a popular dish in Brussels and throughout Belgium.

Carbonnade Flamande

Belgium is famous for its beer, and Brussels is no exception. With a wide variety of styles, from light and fruity to dark and strong, there's a Belgian beer to suit every taste.

Belgian Beer

Speculoos are traditional Belgian spiced shortcrust biscuits. They are thin, very crunchy, and typically flavored with cinnamon. They are particularly popular in Brussels around the Christmas season.

Speculoos

Belgian fries, or frites, are a popular snack in Brussels. They are typically double-fried, making them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are often served with a variety of sauces.

Belgian Fries

Chicons au gratin is a traditional Belgian dish made with endives wrapped in ham and covered with a rich cheese sauce. It's a hearty and comforting dish often enjoyed in Brussels.

Chicons au gratin

Filet Américain is a Belgian dish similar to steak tartare. It's made with raw ground beef, seasoned with various spices and condiments, and often served with fries. It's a popular dish in Brussels.

Filet Américain

New Year's Day

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

Ascension Day

Whit Sunday

Whit Monday

Belgian National Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Armistice Day

Christmas Day

Known for its Diamond District and the artist Rubens, Antwerp is a city with a rich history and culture.

Antwerp

A city of history, Ghent houses a number of museums and historical buildings, including the Saint Bavo's Cathedral.

Ghent

Bruges is a city that still retains its medieval architecture. It's known for its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings.

Bruges

Famous for the Battle of Waterloo, this town offers a rich historical experience with its battlefield tours and exhibits.

Waterloo

Namur is the capital of Wallonia, known for its baroque cathedral, ancient fortress, and charming old town.

Namur

Liege is a vibrant city known for its lively nightlife, interesting museums, and beautiful architecture.

Liege

Luxembourg City is a charming city known for its well-preserved medieval fortifications and beautiful old town.

Luxembourg City

Maastricht is a city in the Netherlands known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful architecture.

Maastricht

Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, lively cultural scene, and maritime heritage.

Rotterdam

Amsterdam is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system, and narrow houses with gabled facades.

Amsterdam

City Hall and Mont des Arts area at sunset

Atomium is a 102 meter tall iron atom model, originally constructed for Expo '58.

Brussels is a bilingual city where both French and Dutch are official languages. However, English is also widely spoken.

The currency used in Brussels is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

Tipping is not mandatory in Brussels, as service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it's customary to leave small change if you're satisfied with the service.

Public transportation in Brussels is efficient and reliable. It includes trams, buses, and metros. You can buy tickets at metro stations, newsstands, or directly from the bus or tram driver.

Brussels has a temperate oceanic climate. Summers (June to August) are generally warm with average high temperatures of 70-75°F (21-24°C), while winters (December to February) are usually mild with average high temperatures of 40-45°F (4-7°C).

Brussels is generally a safe city, but like any other major city, it's advisable to stay vigilant and take basic precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Belgium operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).

The standard voltage in Belgium is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type E.

Brussels is known for its culinary scene. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries), Belgian waffles, and Belgian chocolate.

Brussels has a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The legal drinking age is 18.

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places, including bars, restaurants, and public transportation.

Brussels has a well-developed healthcare system. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

The emergency phone number in Belgium is 112 for any type of emergency.

Brussels is a walkable city with many pedestrian zones. However, it's also a city of cobblestones, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Brussels is a city of comic strips. You can find comic strip murals on many buildings throughout the city.

The city is also known for its Art Nouveau architecture. You can see many beautiful buildings in this style just by walking around.

Brussels is home to the European Union's main institutions. While you can't visit them, it's interesting to see them from the outside.

Belgium is famous for its beer. There are hundreds of different types to try, from traditional Trappist beers to fruity lambics.

Shopping in Brussels is a unique experience. From high-end fashion boutiques to vintage stores and markets, there's something for everyone.

January is the coldest month in Brussels, with temperatures often dropping to freezing. It's also one of the wettest months, so pack warm and waterproof clothing.

February is still quite cold, with temperatures slightly higher than January. Snow is less likely, but rain is still common.

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. However, it's still quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. Rain is common, so pack an umbrella.

May is a lovely month to visit Brussels, with warmer temperatures and longer days. However, it can still be quite rainy.

June is the start of summer, with temperatures often reaching the low 20s. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

July is the warmest month in Brussels, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s. It's a great time to visit, but it can be quite busy with tourists.

August is similar to July, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to enjoy the city's outdoor cafes and beer gardens.

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures slowly dropping. However, it's still quite warm, especially in the early part of the month.

October is a cooler month, with temperatures often dropping to single digits. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

November is quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping to single digits. It's also one of the wettest months, so pack warm and waterproof clothing.

December is a cold and wet month, with temperatures often dropping to freezing. However, the city's Christmas markets make it a magical time to visit.

Brussels, Belgium, is known for its temperate maritime climate, which means the city experiences mild summers and cool winters. However, the weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for a variety of conditions.

In the summer months, from June to August, temperatures typically range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). It's generally warm and pleasant, but there can be occasional heatwaves, so it's advisable to pack light clothing, but also include a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures drop to between 45°F and 60°F (7°C to 15°C). The city becomes quite rainy during this period, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella.

Winter, from December to February, can be quite chilly with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 45°F (0°C to 7°C). Snowfall is not uncommon, but it doesn't usually stick around for long. Warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, is essential during this time.

Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit Brussels. Temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C), and the city starts to bloom. Pack layers to accommodate the fluctuating temperatures.

Remember, Brussels is known for its frequent rainfall throughout the year, so a waterproof jacket or umbrella should be a staple in your suitcase no matter when you visit. Also, comfortable walking shoes are a must as the city is best explored on foot.

Lastly, always check the weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately for the current conditions. Enjoy your visit to this charming city!

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3-Day Family Adventure: Outdoor and Sightseeing in Brussels

About Brussels, Belgium