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Brussels is a double-faceted city; on the one hand it projects an air of bustling efficiency in its role as the capital of Belgium and the European Union, full of civil servants, bureaucrats and Eurocrats, while on the other it is a city of centuries-old traditions and architecture. Its dual personality is also reflected in the fact that it is officially bilingual: French and Flemish are its two languages. Architecturally, styles range from Gothic cathedrals and churches to the classical charm of the Palais des Nations, the Royal Palace and to the numerous art deco and art nouveau houses by the famous architect Victor Horta.

Grand Place / Grote Markt, arguably one of Europe's most beautiful central squares, is the focal point of the city's social life and an ideal spot to people-watch whilst sipping a beer. Lined with ornate guild houses and museums, it is the centre for Brussels' most important ceremonies and festivals, not to mention the traditional bird market that is held here every Sunday morning. Just around the corner is the fountain of the Mannekin-Pis, a beloved figure to whom many dignitaries have donated over 250 costumes over the years, now housed in the Musée Communal.

Brussels Attractions

Grand Place
1000 Brussels

The Grand Place is an outstanding example of the eclectic and highly successful blending of architectural and artistic styles that characterises the culture and society of this region. The scene of various markets and events throughout the year, Grand Place is the focal point of the city of Brussels and the heart of its social and civic life.

Grand Sablon
1000 Brussels

Not to be missed when in Brussels is a visit to the Grand Sablon, the eclectic centre of exquisite antique galleries and dynamic, sumptuous restaurants.

Musée d'Art Moderne (Museum of Modern Art)
3 Place Royale, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 508 3211 | Fax: +32 2 508 3232

An outstanding and contemporary museum that acts as a showcase for modern Belgian art, as well as welcoming international artists. Works from the likes of René Magritte and James Ensor are among the permanent fixtures but there are are also a great number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Musée des Instruments de Musique (Museum of Musical Instruments)
2 Rue Montagne de la Cour, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 545 0130 | Fax: +32 2 545 0178

Formally an upmarket clothes store, the Old England building, preserved because of its exclusive art nouveau style, now hosts the Museum of Musical Instruments and has become a major Brussels landmark. The museum displays famous virginals and harpsichords of the Antwerp school, as well as original instruments manufactured by Adolphe Sax, the Belgian inventor of the saxophone.

Musée Horta (Horta Museum)
23-25 Rue Américaine, 1060 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 543 0490 | Fax: +32 2 538 7631

A must-see attraction for the culture-seeking visitor to Brussels, the Horta Museum is the spectacular former residence and workshops of the leading art nouveau architect Victor Horta.

Maison d'Erasme (Erasmus House)
31 Rue du Chapitre, 1070 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 521 1383 | Fax: +32 2 527 1269

The often-labelled 'prince of the Humanists', Desiderius Erasmus lived at this address in 1521. This is a beautiful house that contains a remarkable collection of documents illustrating the life and works of the author of In Praise of Folly.

Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée (Belgian Comic Strip Centre)
20 Rue des Sables, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 219 1980 | Fax: +32 2 219 2376

The Belgian Centre for Comic Strip Art should not be missed on any visit to Brussels. The centre is a tour through the country's rich and vibrant comic-strip culture, tracing the history from its earliest beginnings to contemporary favourites. The museum also has a bookshop, a library, an excellent cafe and several floors of fascinating exhibits. Even the building, the Grand Magasin Waucquez, is remarkable.

Manneken Pis
Corner Rue de l'Etuve and Rue du Chène, 1000 Brussels

An unusual attraction in any city, this statue of a little boy in a somewhat compromising position has become a major part of the Brussels sightseeing experience.

Palais Royal (Royal Palace)
16 Rue Bréderode, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 551 2020 | Fax: +32 2 502 3949

Brussels' Royal Palace is on the Place des Palais facing the Palais de la Nation, home of the Belgian parliament, across the Park of Brussels. Each year, during summer months only, the Royal Palace in Brussels opens its doors to the public.

Les Galeries Saint-Hubert
Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes / Rue de l'Ecuyer, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 512 2116

The Galeries Saint-Hubert is an impressive, covered shopping gallery that dates back to 1847. Aside from the shops and stores, the visitor will marvel at the sublime architecture.

Autoworld
11 Parc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Brussels
Tel: +32 2 736 4165 | Fax: +32 2 736 5136

Autoworld is a major Brussels attraction, which boasts the largest collection of old and new cars in the world.