What to do in Brussels

Advice on what to do in Brussels, including culture, relaxation, nightlife, sport and food.

Cultural attractions in Brussels
One place you should not miss, and to be fair would be hard to miss, is the Grand Place, with its impressively ornate, baroque guild houses. It is regarded as one of the finest squares in Europe. Admire the architecture while enjoying a waffle at one of the cafes in the square. At night the Grand Place plays host to concerts and events during the warmer months.

One of the most famous sights in Belgium is the Mannekin Pis, better known as the 'peeing boy'. The statue of the infant, caught in state of relief, can be found on the corner of Rue de L’Etuve and Stroofstraat. It is a hit with tourists, who can also visit a museum which houses mini-costumes that have traditionally been donated by heads of state for him to wear.

While in Brussels it is worth checking out the heartbeat of the European Union at the European parliament. Tours of the offices can be arranged, allowing tourists to tread the corridors of power.

Relaxation in Brussels
If just drinking Belgian beer is not enough, booze fans can head to the Cantillon Brewery for an informative tour round its museum, teaching you the trade tips for making a top tipple. There are, of course, tastings en route.

Welcoming on a winter or autumn's day, very hot on a summer's day, the Royal Greenhouses are home to one of the world's largest botanical collections in the world. It consists of an impressive 16 interconnected greenhouses, complete with dining hall, theatre and reception areas.

Nightlife in Brussels
Le Corbeau on rue St-Michel serves a wide range of beers, including the challenging chevalier-style beer, which comes in large, hourglass shaped glasses. Great for a quiet, boozy afternoon, or an entertaining night of unpretentious fun.

A trendy retro bar based at the bottom of the old National Institute for Radio Broadcasting is Café Belga on Place Flagey. It is part of the larger cultural centre that was recently renovated, and everything harks back to broadcasting from a bygone era, including its original 50s bar. Nice mix of people, from arty students to oldies.

Sport in Brussels

A game of football can be caught with Anderlecht at Constant Vanden Stock Stadium, Molenbeek and Strombeek.

Recommended restaurants in Brussels
Do not let the trendy minimalism of L'Estragon put you off, as its food is cheap as chips. A fine selection of Belgian and French food awaits, with good value steaks and mussels.

For an altogether pricier meal but one that is worth it, try Tagawa, which will give you one of the most authentic Japanese dining experiences outside of the land of the rising sun. Real, Japanese interior combines with excellent Japanese food.