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About Brussels Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union. This has earned the city the title of the Capital of Europe.
Brussels has been given its character by the coexistence of French and Flemish culture, and it is nowadays home to nationalities around the world, adding a cosmopolitan flavour to its atmosphere. The vibrant atmosphere of Brussels is further enhanced by picturesque medieval streets, lively squares, beautiful boulevards, impressive monuments, spacious parks, cosy cafés, interesting restaurants and an active cultural life.
AttractionsAmongst the treasures of tourist attractions offered by Brussels are:
 The Manneken Pis
Measuring just 30cm, this little bronze boy having a pee has been the pride and joy of the inhabitants of Brussels for centuries! Nobody actually knows why the Manneken Pis is there and much mythology surrounds him. He also has a collection of more than 500 costumes, which are on display in the Musée de Ville in the town. He received his first costume as far back as 1698. You’ll find the Manneken Pis on the corner of Stoofstraat/Rue de L'Etuve and the Eikstraat/Rue du Chêne.
The Grand Place & Hôtel de Ville
Described by Victor Hugo as "the most beautiful square in Europe," the Grand Place is located in the very heart of Brussels. The square contains numerous impressive baroque and gothic buildings, many of which have dazzling gilt details. The Hôtel de Ville (town hall), a gothic masterpiece dating from the early 15th century, is also located in the square. Don’t miss a guided tour of the town hall, which takes you into many of its art-adorned rooms. During the summer months there is free nightly entertainment including fireworks and light shows.
 The Atomium
The Atomium was originally built for the 1958 World Fair and since its construction it has become the symbol of Belgium. The 102-metre-tall steel and aluminum structure is meant to be a symbol of the atom concept, increased by 165 billions times! It offers a superb panoramic view of Brussels and its surroundings. The Atomium is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily from April through August, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. September through March. The basic ticket price is €6 for adults and €3 for children between 1,2 meters in height and 12 years of age. (Smaller children are free.) You can also buy combination tickets for the Atomium and nearby attractions such as Mini-Europe, Oceade, and an IMAX large-screen movie theatre.
Restaurants & barsBrussels is not only the capital of Europe but also the capital of gastronomy. The art of good eating is part of an authentic way of life.
A Belgian likes to stroll in certain areas well-known for their gastronomic tables, such as Place Sainte-Catherine known as the fish market. The place where you can feast on the mussels and oysters from Zelande, lobsters from different countries; local fish such as sole and turbot, which the best chiefs turn into sublimely inventive dishes.
The Sablon is another part of the city renowned for its delicious fare. It boasts many antique shops as well as its numerous café’s, taverns, wine bars and chic restaurants. The food served is traditional, which is to say truly international.
Bars: Belgium is justly famous for its superb selection of beers, not least those created by Trappist monks at various monasteries around the country. Brussels, furthermore, has its own idiosyncratic varieties, notably the spontaneously fermented Gueuze and the fruit flavoured Kriek varieties.
NightlifeNo matter where you are in Belgium, there’s a party going on – and you’re invited! From 8pm until 8am – in that space of time between savoring a beautiful beer and a piping hot waffle – Belgium’s exuberant nightlife will prove that sometimes it’s worth it to skip a good night’s sleep.
Jazz festivals, rock concerts, exotic nightclubs, traditional brown pubs and casinos are all a part of daily life here in the heart of Europe.
ShoppingWhether you do your antique shopping in the stylish Brussels Sablon area, browsing through exquisite items or by flashlight early on Sunday morning at the flea market, the hunt in Belgium can be as entertaining as the purchase.
Belgium has been an important center of the art world for centuries. Choose from museum-quality stores in major cities to antique markets in smaller towns. Belgium offers an incredible wealth of antiques, Art Deco objects, old books, fine crystals or just plain interesting artifacts. There is something for every taste and budget.
Other things you should knowBrussels has a temperate climate, characterised by warm summers and mild winters. Rain may be expected at any time of the year and snow may fall occasionally during the winter. Temperatures range from 18°C to 27° (65°F to 80°F) in summer and 4°C to 7°C (40°F to 45°F) in winter.
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