Belgium is known to be the land of waffles, chocolate, beer and frites. Brussels, is one of Europe`s unexpected hotspots. The Belgian capital is a free spirited, dynamic and multicultural metropolis – Find the heartbeat of Europe in Brussels.

A Metropolis at the Heartbeat of Europe

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Brussels might be an underdog compared to other European cities, however, the the diversity and cultural richness of this city are striking. Marvellous squares, an exciting artistic scene and vibrant night life – Brussels has this feel of Paris, Amsterdam and Milan all at the same time. Find out 10 reasons to visit the Belgian capital.

 #1 Belgian Beer

A World Record with more than 3000 beers 

Belgian beers are world famous. It is the complexity and rich flavors of Belgian beer – from fruity, to spicy, from herbal to earthy – that is enjoyed by beer fans from all over the world. On every corner in Brussels you can enjoy lively bars & pubs and cafes – A must is Delirium Café, which was entered in the Guiness book of records for it`s more than 3000 beers offered! Named after the famous Belgian stout Delirium and it`s pink elephant logo, the popular bar has fans from all over the world! Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

#2Arts

 

One of the best places in Europe to be a young creative

Brussels might be less glamorous than Paris and more buttoned-up than Berlin—but that’s exactly why the Belgian capital has emerged as an implausible Artistic Hub. Brussels is one of the best places in Europe to be a young creative. Relatively low rents, a large number of galleries have shaped a vibrant community for artists.

The large presence of Art galleries are part of Brussel`s free-spirited flair. Make sure you check out the small gallery Dotspot, whose canvas with catchy slogans are priceless. Brussels is also home to Wiels Contemporary Art Gallery, a laboratory for the creation and the diffusion of contemporary art located in a former brewery. Avenue Van Volxem 354, 1190 Forest, Belgium

#3

Comic Strip Route

 

Belgium has more comic book artists than anywhere else in the world. As the capital of comics, Brussels is home to world-renowned comic artists and the Comic Museum dedicated to Belgian comic. Along the famous Comic Book Route, comic fans can discover murals of Lucky Luke, The Adventures of Tintin and The Smurfs colouring the city walls. Rue des Sables 20, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

#4

Belgian Chocolate & Waffles

Belgian chocolate and waffles are world famous. On almost every street corner, sweet teeth can indulge in the country`s specialty. Mary Chocolatier is one of Brussels tradition steeped chocolatiers. As the grande dame of Belgian chocolate, the factory has been passing on the excellence of chocolate tradition since 100 years. 36 Galerie de la Reine 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

#5

Seafood

Due to the closeness to the North Sea, Brussels has marvellous fresh Seafood. Summer in Belgium means mussel season, served with fries, they’re the unofficial national dish! The traditional family restaurant “Chez Léon” is the best place to enjoy Belgian mussels, fries and all sorts of fresh seafood. Since 160 years, the Vanlacker family is a splendid example of Belgian cooking. Rue des Bouchers 18, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

“Fresh Mussels – A Must in Brussels”

#6

Jazz Capital

Belgian Jazz is undeniably booming! Numerous Jazz Festivals take place throughout the year. During the Brussels Jazz Marathon , more than 250 live concerts, 700 musicians and outdoor stages against the backdrop of the most beautiful squares, turning Brussels into the capital of Jazz.

#7

 

Grand Place 

The most beautiful central square

Grand-Place is the historical heart of Brussels. The architectural gem with lavishly adorned golden house facades is regarded by its admirers as “the most beautiful central square in the world” and was listed as a Unesco world heritage site.

#8

 

The World`s Biggest Flower Carpet

Every two years, a splendid Flower Carpet turns the Grand Place and the heart of Brussels into a blaze of colors. Over 600,000 flowers illustrating a different theme each edition. The next flower carpet takes splace, from 16^th to 19^th August 2018.

“600 000 Flowers”

Picture by Mathieu Paternoster

#9

Internationality

Brussels has a long history of hosting EU Headquarters and international institutions. No wonder that at the heart of Europe is a multicultural metropolis. Brussels`s population is made up by two-thirds of foreigners. Belgium is bordering the Netherlands, Germany, Luxemburg and France, which is culturally expressed in Brussel`s 3 official languages: French, Dutch and German.

#10

 

Events 

The Belgian capital is a vibrant city with cultural festivities throughout the year. From beer events to glowing flower carpets on the central square and vibrant Jazz nights, there is always something going on in Brussels. Here are some of the most important events:

• Belgian Beer Weekend: Sept 2nd – Sept 4th 2017
• Flower Capet: 16^th – 19^th August 2018
• Brussels Jazz Marathon: 20-22 May 2017
• Nuit Blanche: 07th October 2017
• Brussels Beach: between July and August
• Brussels Summer Festival: 06-15th August 2017
• Christmas Market: 25 November – 1 January