Sampling Belgian beers

It would be a sin to come to the Belgian capital without sampling one of the country’s most famous exports. And you won’t have to go far to find a beer in Brussels, with bars on every corner. For those of drinking age, the opportunity to sample Belgium’s famous (and famously strong) beers is one not to be missed. From refreshing fruit beers made with cherry, strawberry or blueberry to strong dark ales that will have you staggering after just one glass, each with their own distinct glasses (look out for Kwak beer, whose unusually-shaped glass produces a genuine ‘quacking’ sound when drunk out of), the sheer variety of styles is mindblowing.

Indulging in Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate, meanwhile, is famously rich and indulgent, and no-one should miss the opportunity to sample hand-made Belgian pralines while in Brussels. There are specialist chocolate stores to be found in abundance throughout the city, and Belgian chocolates make great gits to take home - if you can resist the temptation to eat them all yourself!

The Atomium

This towering steel and aluminum reconstruction of an atom stands at a staggering 102-meters tall, and has become a real landmark of Brussels since it was built for the World Fair of 1958. It’s possible to take a trip up to the top of the sculpture and take in dramatic panoramic views of the city, while the surrounding park is a nice place to stop for a rest and a bite to eat. There are sellers nearby offering freshly-made potato fries – don’t pass up the opportunity, the fries in Belgium have to be among the best in the World.  

Manneken Pis

This dinky little bronze statue of a young boy taking a pee has been replicated in garden centers and parks the world over, and he’s arguably Belgian’s most famous resident. The origins of this 30cm-high statue remain a mystery, but he certainly has an eye for fashion. The little bronze boy has a collection of over 500 costumes, the first of which dates right back to 1698. Catch him on the corner of Stoofstraat and Rue de L’Etuve and see what dapper outfit he’s modeling. 

Grand Place

This mammoth square in the center of Brussels is flanked by ornate and dramatically beautiful buildings, and has been referred to as one of the world’s most beautiful town squares. Historically a place for market traders to hawk their wares, today it is Brussels prime tourist attraction and the flagstones are lined with bars and restaurants, any one of which is a pleasant spot to enjoy a drink and a meal while taking in the breathtaking view.