Brussels holidays

Championed by local architect Victor Horta, the Art Nouveau movement left its mark on Belgium’s capital. There are nearly 1,000 Art Nouveau buildings here so you’ll see lots of stained glass and wrought iron on your city break in Brussels. The Horta Museum is a fine example, but you’ll avoid the crowds by visiting the Maison Hannon townhouse and exhibition instead.

Belgium’s capital may be famous for its architecture, but it’s a bronze statue that really gets people talking. The peeing boy sculpture known as Manneken Pis cheekily captures the city’s rebellious spirit. Leave the tourists behind by checking out two lesser-visited tinkling statues – Jeanneke Pis (a girl) and Het Zinneke (a dog), both within a short walk from one another.

Do something spooky on a weekend break to Brussels and check out some cemeteries. Wander past overgrown tombs of famous Belgians in the eerie Dieweg Cemetery. Then descend into the underworld and explore funeral galleries in the ancient Laeken Cemetery. Back above ground, look for the tomb of art merchant Joseph Dillen – the ‘Thinker’ statue on top is an original by Rodin.

If you want to surround yourself with architectural masterpieces, the best area to stay in Brussels is the Pentagon. This central neighbourhood is where you’ll find the Royal Palace, traditional restaurants and jazzy rooftop bars. If you get lost, just look for the Town Hall tower – it’ll lead you to Grand Place where you can easily reset your journey.

Good for: Historical attractions, dining, entertainment

Tasteful changes have transformed this former port area into a lively urban district, attracting a young and artsy crowd. It’s a great launchpad for your city break in Brussels if you’re into architecture and maritime history. Canals and wharves have been turned into streets while old warehouses are now fashionable boutiques and upmarket seafood restaurants.

Good for: Galleries, restaurants, architecture

If you like your political history, this international district is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Brussels. It’s also known as the European Quarter and all the main institutions of the EU are here, including Parliament. Stay the night in one of the city’s top business hotels and stroll over to Place du Luxembourg for trendy restaurants and bars.

Good for: Restaurants, business hotels, bars

If you’re travelling with your young explorers, there are heaps of fun things to do with family in Brussels. Kids love meeting dinosaurs at the Institute of Natural Sciences while ZOO Planckendael is a great day trip for fans of more modern-day creatures. Visit Mini-Europe Park and feel like giants wandering beside scale models of famous landmarks.

If you fancy a bit of retail therapy, the shopping in Brussels is some of the best in Europe. For luxury boutiques in a historic setting, head to the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Bag a bargain at the Vieux Marche flea market in Marolles or stock up on international brand clothing at the stores on Rue Neuve.

The museums in Brussels feature world-class art, heritage and even chocolate. Listen to African drums in the Musical Instrument Museum or discover a treasure trove of paintings at the Royal Museums of Fine Art. Don’t miss the chance to make pralines at Choco-Story and visit the World of Banksy to learn about the mysterious street artist.

While the fries and waffles are as delicious as you’d expect, restaurants in Brussels are about more than just fast food. Take your time over Flemish stews in ’T Kelderke, an Old Town eatery hidden in a cellar. Or for international favourites like Japanese sushi and spicy Syrian lamb, don’t miss the Wolf Food Market in the city centre.

If you like partying in unusual venues, you’ll love the clubs in Brussels. Le Botanique used to be an orangery, but now it’s known for its live music shows. Spirito is a nightclub in a church with chandeliers giving it a glamorous vibe. For something more relaxed, candlelight concerts take place in landmarks like the Planetarium and the Atomium.

It’s easy to find free things to do in Brussels if you know where to look. It costs nothing to admire the Grand Place architecture. For a unique view of this square, the Hard Rock Cafe’s upper floor takes some beating. If you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month, the Design Museum, the Jewish Museum and the Horta Museum are free.