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Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and comprises 19 municipalities at the heart of the country. As a region straddling both the French and Flemish communities, it offers a unique cultural blend and world-class performing arts scene.

Quick facts

Population
—
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
German, French, Dutch
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Local time now
20:07:23

Hotels in Brussels

Brussels offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit every traveller. From established properties like Hotel Amigo and Hotel Aris to unique options such as Mozart, Floris Arlequin Grand Place, and Agora, visitors can find suitable lodging throughout the city. See all hotels →

Airports in Brussels

Brussels is served by several airports and aviation facilities. Brussels Airport is the main commercial hub, while the region also includes facilities such as Beauvechain Air Base, Grimbergen Lint, ULM Baisy-Thy, and Aéroclub de Buzet for general aviation and other services. See all airports →

Brussels Airport
11.1 km from centre
Grimbergen Lint
11.6 km from centre
Beauvechain Air Base
30.8 km from centre

Car Hire in Brussels

Brussels offers several car hire options for visitors looking to explore the city and beyond. Major rental companies including Hertz and Avis operate in the city, alongside local services such as Luxauto and Dockx Service Shop Dilbeek. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels offers a rich array of cultural experiences and attractions for visitors. Explore the city's museums such as the Musée de la ville de Bruxelles - Museum van de Stad Brussel and the historic Maison du Roi - Broodhuis, which showcase Brussels' heritage and artistic traditions. See all things to do →

Musée de la ville de Bruxelles - Museum van de Stad Brussel
33 m from centre
Maison du Roi - Broodhuis
37 m from centre
Charles Buls - Karel Buls
39 m from centre
Karl Marx
45 m from centre
Charles Buls - Karel Buls
46 m from centre
Everard 't Serclaes
48 m from centre

Restaurants in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse dining scene with establishments ranging from traditional Belgian cuisine to contemporary fare. Notable restaurants in the city include Le Paon - De Pauw, La Maison du Cygne, La Brouette, The Brothers, and La Rose Blanche, each contributing to the capital's rich gastronomic reputation. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Brussels

Brussels offers several swimming facilities for residents and visitors. Notable options include Piscine de Neder-Over-Heembeek and Zwembad Wildersportcomplex, which provide aquatic recreation opportunities throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Spas in Brussels

Brussels offers a selection of wellness destinations for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Le Jasmin Wellness is among the spa options available in the city for those looking to unwind during their stay. See all spas →

Nightlife in Brussels

Brussels offers a vibrant nightlife scene with venues ranging from energetic clubs to intimate bars. Whether you're looking to dance at hotspots like UMI and The UpClub, or enjoy a more relaxed evening at establishments such as Le You, La Clave, and Nostalgia, the Belgian capital has something for every taste. See all nightlife →

UMI
100 m from centre
The UpClub
171 m from centre
Le You
234 m from centre

Bars in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse bar scene ranging from traditional brasseries to vibrant jazz venues. Whether you're looking for a casual drink at Brussels Brasserie, live music at Toots Jazz Club, or the unique atmosphere of Le Cercueil, the capital has something for every taste. See all bars →

Brussels Brasserie
42 m from centre
Che Habana Café
49 m from centre
Le Cercueil
57 m from centre

Cafes in Brussels

Brussels offers a diverse café scene for every taste, from traditional Belgian spots to modern international chains. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee at Starbucks, specialty treats at Bigg Cake, or bubble tea at Bubbletearoom.be, the city's cafes provide welcoming spaces to relax and refuel. See all cafes →

Shopping in Brussels

Brussels offers diverse shopping experiences across the city, from historic covered arcades like the Galeries royales Saint-Hubert and Galerie Bortier to modern shopping centres such as Anspach Shopping and Agora. Whether you're seeking Belgian brands, international retailers, or unique boutiques, the Belgian capital provides shopping options throughout its downtown and district areas. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Brussels

Brussels offers a variety of parks and gardens for nature lovers to explore. From the Jardin du Mont des Arts to Parc Simone de Beauvoir, the city provides peaceful green spaces and outdoor areas for visitors and residents alike. See all nature & wildlife →

Parc de la Cathédrale Saints-Michel-et-Gudule - Park voor de Kathedraal Sint-Michiel en Goedele
405 m from centre
Place de Dinant - Dinantplein
444 m from centre
Jardin du Mont des Arts - Tuin van de Kunstberg
452 m from centre
Square Salvador Allende - Salvador Allende Square
509 m from centre
Parc Simone de Beauvoir - Simone de Beauvoirpark
538 m from centre
Jardin de Sculptures - Beeldhouwtuin
675 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Brussels experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. The city sees regular rainfall throughout the year, with spring and autumn offering pleasant conditions for exploring its historic streets and cultural venues.

Interesting Facts About Brussels — Weird & Wonderful

  • Brussels is an enclave surrounded by the Flemish Region, located within Flanders but separate from it, with Wallonia just 2.5 miles to the south.
  • The King Baudouin Stadium, the largest concert and competition facility in Belgium with 50,000 seats, stands on the site of the former Heysel Stadium.
  • The Kunstenfestivaldesarts, held annually in May, uses around 30 venues across the city as part of its international performing arts festival.
  • The Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR) hosts the prestigious Queen Elisabeth Competition, one of the most challenging classical music and singing competitions in the world.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Brussels

May
Kunstenfestivaldesarts
An international performing arts festival organised every year, with its main hub at the Kaaitheater and performances hosted across around 30 venues throughout the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brussels

What is the currency used in Brussels?

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency of Brussels, as Belgium is a member of the Eurozone.

What languages are spoken in Brussels?

Brussels is part of both the French Community and Flemish Community of Belgium, so both French and Dutch (Flemish) are widely spoken.

What region is Brussels in?

Brussels is the Brussels-Capital Region, located in the central portion of Belgium and forming an enclave within the Flemish Region.

What is Brussels famous for culturally?

Brussels is renowned for its performing arts scene, home to prestigious institutions like the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie and the Kaaitheater, and hosts the international Kunstenfestivaldesarts each May.

What major competitions are held in Brussels?

The Queen Elisabeth Competition for classical singers and instrumentalists, one of the most prestigious competitions of its kind, is held annually at the Centre for Fine Arts (BOZAR).

Map of Brussels

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