Brussels Bucket List: Top 10 Vibrant Destinations for Millennials

Brussels is a city of myriad charms, from its stunning architecture to its world-famous chocolate and beer. With its rich history, vibrant art scene, and lively atmosphere, it's a destination that offers something for everyone.

Here, we'll take a closer look at ten must-visit places in Brussels, each offering a unique and memorable experience.

Grand Place

The Grand Place is undoubtedly the heart of Brussels. This UNESCO World Heritage site is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the stunning Gothic spires of the Town Hall. The square is particularly breathtaking at night when it's illuminated, and it's a fantastic place to soak up the city's history and architecture. Don't miss the Flower Carpet, a biennial event where the Grand Place is covered in a stunning tapestry of thousands of flowers.

Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels' most iconic landmarks. This futuristic structure was built for the 1958 World's Fair and represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city and explore the spheres, which house a museum dedicated to the 1950s.

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is known for its rich comic book tradition, and the Belgian Comic Strip Center celebrates this heritage. Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, the museum showcases the work of famous Belgian comic book artists like Hergé (creator of Tintin) and Peyo (creator of The Smurfs). It's a must-visit for comic book enthusiasts and those interested in Belgian culture.

European Quarter

Brussels is often referred to as the "Capital of Europe" due to its role as the de facto capital of the European Union. The European Quarter is home to the EU's main institutions, including the European Commission and the European Parliament. Visitors can take guided tours of these buildings and learn more about the EU's history and functions.

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is one of Brussels' most famous landmarks, and it's also one of its smallest. This iconic bronze statue of a little boy peeing has become a symbol of the city's irreverent sense of humor. The statue is dressed in various costumes throughout the year, and there's a museum nearby where you can learn more about its history.

Saint Hubert Royal Galleries

The Saint Hubert Royal Galleries are a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture. This covered shopping arcade is home to a variety of upscale boutiques, chocolatiers, and cafes. It's a great place to wander and soak up the atmosphere, especially on a rainy day.

Street Art in Brussels

Brussels has a thriving street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning buildings throughout the city. Some of the best-known works can be found in the Marolles neighborhood, where the comic book character Tintin is a popular subject. There are also guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the artists and their work.

Belgian Chocolate and Waffle Tasting

Belgium is famous for its chocolate and waffles, and no visit to Brussels would be complete without sampling these delicious treats. There are countless chocolate shops and waffle stands throughout the city, but some of the best can be found in the Sablon neighborhood. Be sure to try a praline-filled chocolate and a Liege-style waffle topped with whipped cream and strawberries.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is a beautiful green space in the heart of Brussels. It's home to the impressive Triumphal Arch, which was built in 1905 to commemorate Belgium's 50th anniversary as an independent state. The park is a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, and it also houses several museums, including the Autoworld car museum and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History.

Delirium Café

Brussels is known for its beer, and Delirium Café is one of the best places to sample the local brews. This lively bar holds the Guinness World Record for the most varieties of beer available, with over 2,000 different options. The atmosphere is always festive, with live music and a diverse crowd of locals and tourists alike.

In conclusion, Brussels is a city that offers a wealth of attractions and experiences. Whether you're interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, there's something for everyone in the Belgian capital. These ten places are just a starting point for exploring all that Brussels has to offer, and each one is sure to leave you with lasting memories of this vibrant and dynamic city.