Brussels Things to Do

Built in 1928 by architect Victor Horta, the Palace of Fine Arts draws all art forms under the same roof: visual arts, music, theater, literature, ballet and an assortment of temporary exhibits. The world-famous Henri Le Boeuf... more

This has been called the most splendid market square in Europe. Its esplanade is completely enclosed by tall, gabled, Flemish Renaissance buildings dripping with ornamentation and statues. It is alive with daily commerce and a... more

This is the largest museum complex in Belgium, and houses the Museum of Ancient Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Located in the heart of Brussels, this museum has a rich collection of 14th century fine arts and artifacts. Its... more

This café features quaint, late 19th century décor. But, the genuine charm of this place lies on its tables: chessboards abound here. At any hour of the day or night, you'll find numerous groups of players ranging in age from 1... more

Walking through Brussels, you're bound to stumble upon the Koninklijke Vlaamse Schouwburg, a stately 19th century building, now more or less in ruins. Now managed by director Franz Marijnen, KVS has become one of the best theat... more

Art nouveau was practically born in Brussels. Victor Horta (1861-1947), considered Brussels' master of the art, designed this house and lived in it until 1919; there are hundreds such buildings in the city. It was restored in 1... more

Run by film producer Daniel van Avermaet, Au Stekerlapatte is popular thanks to its young clientele, unpretentious cuisine and reasonable prices. Just off Boulevard de Waterloo and close to the Palace of Justice, it caters to b... more

This location is home to many upscale antiques stores, Emporio Armani, the world-renowned pastry boutique, Wittamer, and much more. The square is distinguished by a statue of Minerva, given to the city as a gift in 1751. Here a... more

This is a traditional working-class neighborhood, dominated by the gargantuan Palais de Justice (constructed in 1866-1883 and until recently the largest building in the world). The Marolles now offers a wide selection of dining... more

Jazz-pianist Stan Brenners opened this gorgeous bar in the 1940s; in the 1980s, a group of trendy young things renovated and reopened the place, turning it into the quintessential Brussels nightspot. Carouse at the bar or take... more