The tourist's guide to brussels

If you love music, in Brussels music cannot wait for concert halls – it can be heard everywhere! There are bands and celebrations that regularly take place in parks and on pavements, especially those exploring the syncopated rhythms of Jazz. From the exits of the Underground to the terraces of cafés, through improvised outdoor stages, Brussels swings and fills your soul with a festive mood. Brussels is also the capital of gastronomy and is ready to welcome its many visitors to its 1800 restaurants and abundant hotels. From Europe’s greatest Dinosaur Gallery to Jazzy Nights out, Brussels has it all.

Many enjoy visiting the amazing Museum of Natural Sciences to see the impressive T. Rex and Triceratops or discover the importance of biodiversity, learn how to protect it and safeguard life on our planet. Alternatively you could visit the Atomium or enjoy the minature replica ‘Mini-Europe’ where you can have a whistle-stop tour of Europe in a few hours. A truly unique journey – enjoy a stroll, taking in the typical atmosphere of the most beautiful towns of the old Continent; the incomparable chimes of Big Ben welcome you to the heart of London, gondolas and mandolins invite you to discover the charms of Venice and you can follow the TGV high-speed train from Paris to the other end of France. Brussels makes a great choice for an easy short break with plenty to do

Brussels

Brussels – Contemporary & Historical Metropolis Brussels is a city packed with contrasts, its character shaped by the influences of both Flemish and French culture, and whether travelling by Eurostar or Eurotunnel you will enjoy this excellent short break destination with its distinctly cosmopolitan feel.read more

Getting there…. Travelling by Eurostar to Brussels makes sense – trains take just under 2 hours from London. If you’re crossing with Eurotunnel then reckon on a 3 hour drive from Calais, and for the cheapest option take the ferry to Calais or for a shorter drive take Norfolkline to Dunkerque.

Getting around…. There’s an extensive network of public transport here and many visitors report that it’s much easier not to use the car, so whether its metro, bus, tram, bicycle or good old shank’s pony there are plenty of options – we would recommend that you walk as much as you are able to fully appreciate the flavour of Brussels with its delightful medieval streets with ornate buildings and impressive monuments, vibrant squares, stunning boulevards, spacious parks, and an energetic cultural life.

This popular city destination is not only at the heart of Europe but has been called the capital of gastronomy. The art of good eating seems part of the fabric of this city renowned for its delicious fare and there are plenty of options with cafés, taverns, wine bars and chic restaurants on offer. So grab a chair and join the laid back locals soaking up the casual atmosphere, this is a multicultural fusion that belies any Eurocratic image – in a world where so little seems undiscovered, you may just find a city break in Belgium’s capital to be a surprising revelation!