Brussels, the capital of Belgium is often overlooked by family travellers. While it may not be as famous as the neighbouring cities like London or Paris, this city has tons to offer as a family holiday destination. Think awesome buildings, cool murals, interactive museums, lush green parks, yummy food and drinks.
Here are our Brussels top things to do for family travellers:
Booking.comStart somewhere grand: Grand Place
Grand Place is the heart of Brussels. It is one of the finest squares in all of Europe. Grab a waffle and coffee (there is a Starbucks right in the square) and take your time admiring all the beautiful architectures.
Try visiting the square more than once, at different times of the day. On a sunny day, the gilded gold on the buildings really shines bright. In the evenings as the sun sets and the buildings lit up, the square transforms into an illuminating spectacle. Being so grand it does attract hordes of people, including tour groups, free walking tours and the locals, try your best to avoid them.
See all of Europe in one day at Mini Europe
Located right next door to the famous Atomium, Mini Europe is just 30 minutes metro ride away from the central station. Opened in 1989, this park has 350 1:25 scaled replicas of famous buildings, sites and monuments from countries across Europe. The models are well maintained though it is probably best to skip the cafeteria and souvenir shop.
Check out aeroplanes at Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History
Located within the historic complex of Park Cinquantenaire; the main gallery houses a collection of 19th century Belgian militaria. Let’s be honest here, the military part is pretty boring, BUT head over to the aviation hall and VOILA! – you will see hundreds of awesome planes. They also have a number of tanks on display. Our son loved this museum and just didn’t want to go home. If you have time, there is another great car themed museum in the building across – Autoworld.
Walk among dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural Sciences
Don’t let the simple exteriors of this museum fool you. The dinosaur hall here is the world’s largest at 4580 square meters! The most impressive pieces are the 30 near complete fossilised Belgian Iguanodon skeletons which were discovered back in 1878.
Visit Belgian Comic Strip Centre & Shop til you drop at La Boutique Tintin
If you are a fan of all things Belgian Comics (think Tintin, Smurfs, Lucky Luke, Asterix etc etc) then this place has got to be on your list. The Belgians really do take pride in their comics.
While if you want to buy Tintin merchandise drop by La Boutique Tintin – just off Grand Place. It is a one stop shop for all things Tintin!
Check out the cafes & shops at St-Hubert Royal Galleries
Just off the Grand Place, this 200 metres long shopping arcade with a glass roof is the very first covered arcade in Europe. There are a number of boutique gift shops, delectable chocolatiers, and cafes lining the arcade. Check out our favourite breakfast spot here: Mokafe.
Waffles (for Kids) and Beers (for parents)!
You will never have to worry if your little ones will refuse to eat when visiting Brussels. Belgium is of course famous for: waffles, chocolates and beers! There are tons of places to satisfy your cravings. Our personal favourite is Maison Dandoy – also in St-Hubert Royal Galleries – which was established in 1829. You can have the waffles plain or loaded with ice cream, cream and chocolate sauce (droooll). There are many set menus available here, which usually include their delicious serving of hot chocolate or champagne.
We don’t think Belgian beers require further explanation. Our favourite during the trip was: Tripel Le Fort.
Cool Street art spotting
Just by walking along the streets, you will many street arts mainly inspired by famous Belgian Comics. They are spread our throughout the city (mostly on the East side in the streets around Mannekin Pis), covering various building walls.
See that famous 61cm Sculpture: Mannekin Pis
Yes it is kinda cute, Yes it is peeing, but seriously? We simply don’t get the fascination here. Though overrated, no visit to Brussels is complete without taking a photo with this little peeing boy – with dozens of other tourists. The sculpture is often dressed in different costumes throughout the year.
Sunset views at Mont des Arts
Mont des Arts offers one of Brussels’ finest views especially at sunset. From the elevated vantage point, the famous tower of the town hall in the Grand place is visible. This is a famous locals hangout place especially for couples.
Kids eat FREE at Chez Leon
Established waaay back in 1893, Chez Leon is one of the oldest restaurants in Brussels. Famous for its mussels, it is also one of the very few places in Brussels where children under the age of 12 can eat for free (with a paying adult). They also brew their own ‘LEON Beer’ which is a must try. It looks small from the outside but it is a big double storey restaurant.
As their slogan says it is: “probably the most Brussels restaurant”
For places we have visited, Checkout our website’s travel Destinations section. We buy of our travel essentials online via Ebay
