There are lots to see in Brussels from the bizarre comic strip to enjoying its café culture in the Grand-Place, the city has eventually blossomed into the economic, political and social center of the Flemish capital. It often draws the short end of the stick when it comes to city trips and quick getaways from France and Netherlands.
Streets of Brussels
1. Mannekin Pis
The cheeky, chubby-cheeked Manneken-Pis is a major character in the folklore of Brussels. It is probably Brussels’ most photographed statue, yet it is only 60cm high. The statue was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy and is a small fountain piece where the water emerges from a tiny metal that he points at the viewer. He is usually stark-naked but sometimes he gets dressed. He has an impressive wardrobe of 600 outfits displayed in the Maison du Roi.
Manneken-Pis
2. Heysel Park & Atomium
Heysel park, located in the west of Brussels, is dedicated to recreation and leisure. In 1985, the European Champions Cup tragedy took place in the Heysel stadium killing several spectators. It has been redesigned since then and renamed Stade Roi Baudoin (King Baudoin Stadium).
One of the highlights of the park is the Atomium. This is a glistening 102 meter (335 ft) high model of an atom made out of chrome and steel designed by André Waterkeyn. To really appreciate this structure, take time to gaze up and enjoy the sheer enormity.
3. Europe Park
Next door to the Atomium is Bruparck, a 25-hectare leisure park of several amusements and attractions. This includes a 27 cinema complex called Kinepolis, an Imax screen, a planetarium and a water park called L’Oceade plus a clutch of eateries in ‘The Village’.
Pride of the place though goes to a display of some of the most famous and symbolic buildings of the countries of the European Union at 1/25th of the original size. You will see gondolas, a TGV train on its way to Paris even hear the unmistakable chimes of Big Ben.
Miniature model of Big Ben in Europe Park
4. Grand Place
Whether you’re just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can’t miss the Grand-Place. This square marks the heart of Brussels’ Lower Town district. Flanked by ornate Gothic and Baroque-style buildings, the Grand-Place is probably the best place to begin your tour of historic Brussels.
Grand Place
5. Eat fries, mussels, waffles, and chocolates
About the Author
Mahy Medhat
A storyteller with a wanderlust desire, who loves exploring the world with a penchant for culture and food. Mahy has been writing for numerous high-profile magazines and currently working on publishing her own book.
