Brussels Belgium Video

Experience Elegance on a Smaller Scale in Brussels Belgium

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a charming destination known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. While it may not be as large as some other European capitals, Brussels offers a unique elegance on a smaller scale. From its picturesque streets to its world-class museums and vibrant cultural scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting city. In this article, we will explore ten different aspects of Brussels that showcase its elegance and allure.

Exploring the Grand Place

The Grand Place, also known as the Grote Markt, is the central square in Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe and a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city. The square is surrounded by stunning guildhalls, the City Hall, and the Maison du Roi. The intricate architecture and ornate facades of the buildings make it a photographer’s paradise. Visitors can also enjoy the various events and festivals that take place in the Grand Place throughout the year.

• Manneken Pis: A small bronze sculpture that has become one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks.
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: A collection of museums showcasing masterpieces from renowned artists like Bruegel, Rubens, and Magritte.
• Atomium: A unique structure originally built for the 1958 Brussels World Expo, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Mini-Europe: A miniature park featuring replicas of famous European landmarks.
• Belgian Comic Strip Center: A museum dedicated to the art of comic strips, including popular Belgian characters like Tintin and the Smurfs.

Indulge in Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is renowned for its mouthwatering chocolate, and Brussels is the perfect place to indulge in this sweet delight. The city is home to numerous chocolatiers and chocolate shops, offering a wide range of flavors and varieties. From pralines and truffles to chocolate-covered waffles and hot chocolate, there is no shortage of options to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Some famous chocolate shops in Brussels include Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, and Godiva.

• Chocolate Walking Tour: Explore the city’s chocolate scene with a guided tour that takes you to the best chocolate shops and provides insights into the chocolate-making process.
• Chocolate Workshops: Learn the art of chocolate-making from the experts and create your own delicious treats.
• Choco-Story Brussels: Discover the history of chocolate and its significance in Belgian culture at this interactive museum.

Discover the Art Nouveau Architecture

Brussels is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by its intricate designs, organic motifs, and curved lines. The city is home to several iconic Art Nouveau buildings, including the Horta Museum, which was the former residence and studio of renowned architect Victor Horta. The museum provides a fascinating insight into the Art Nouveau movement and Horta’s innovative designs. Other notable Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels include Maison Cauchie, Hotel Solvay, and Maison Saint-Cyr.

• Art Nouveau Walking Tour: Explore the city’s Art Nouveau treasures with a guided tour that takes you to the most significant buildings and provides insights into the architectural style.
• Brussels Art Nouveau & Victor Horta Museum Pass: Visit multiple Art Nouveau sites, including the Horta Museum, with a single pass.

Experience Belgian Beer Culture

Belgium is famous for its beer culture, and Brussels offers a plethora of options for beer enthusiasts. The city is home to numerous traditional Belgian pubs, known as “brown cafes,” where you can sample a wide variety of local beers. From refreshing wheat beers and fruity lambics to strong Trappist ales and rich abbey beers, there is a beer to suit every taste. Some popular beer bars in Brussels include Delirium Café, Moeder Lambic, and A La Mort Subite.

• Beer Tasting Tour: Join a beer tasting tour to learn about the different beer styles and sample a selection of Belgian beers.
• Brewery Visits: Visit one of the many breweries in Brussels and discover the brewing process firsthand.
• Belgian Beer Weekend: Experience the annual Belgian Beer Weekend held in Brussels, featuring over 350 different Belgian beers.

Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the Belgian royal family, although it is not used as a royal residence. The palace is open to the public during the summer months, allowing visitors to explore its opulent rooms and admire its grand architecture. The Royal Palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The adjacent Place Royale, with its neoclassical buildings and statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, is also worth a visit.

• Palace Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the palace gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Changing of the Guard: Witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard at the Royal Palace, which takes place every day.

Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a complex of museums that houses an extensive collection of artworks, ranging from the Flemish Primitives to contemporary art. The collection is divided into several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Magritte Museum. Visitors can admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Bruegel, Rubens, Magritte, and Delvaux. The museums also host temporary exhibitions, showcasing works from both Belgian and international artists.

• Highlights Tour: Take a guided tour of the museums to discover the highlights of the collection and gain insights into the artists and their works.
• Temporary Exhibitions: Check the museum’s website for information on current and upcoming temporary exhibitions.

Enjoy a Stroll in the Cinquantenaire Park

Cinquantenaire Park is a beautiful urban park located in the eastern part of Brussels. It is known for its grand Triumphal Arch, which was built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence. The park offers lush green spaces, picturesque gardens, and tranquil ponds, providing an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It is also home to several museums, including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, Autoworld, and the Art & History Museum.

• Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the serene surroundings of Cinquantenaire Park.
• Museum Visits: Explore the various museums located within the park and delve into Belgian history, military artifacts, and automobile heritage.

Discover the Delights of Belgian Cuisine

Belgian cuisine is a delight for food lovers, and Brussels offers a wide range of culinary experiences. From traditional dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries) and stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables) to indulgent treats like waffles, speculoos, and pralines, there is something to satisfy every palate. The city is also known for its rich beer and chocolate, which are often incorporated into savory and sweet dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of Belgian cuisine during your visit to Brussels.

• Food Tours: Join a food tour to explore the city’s culinary scene, taste different dishes, and learn about the history and culture behind Belgian cuisine.
• Chocolate and Beer Pairing: Experience the perfect combination of Belgian beer and chocolate with a guided tasting.

Immerse Yourself in Brussels’ Cultural Scene

Brussels has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues. The city is known for its diverse range of performances, including theater, dance, opera, and live music. The historic Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie is one of the most prestigious opera houses in Europe, hosting world-class productions throughout the year. The Bozar, a multidisciplinary arts center, showcases exhibitions, concerts, and performances by both Belgian and international artists. Visitors can also explore the vibrant street art scene in neighborhoods like Saint-Gilles and Ixelles.

• Theater Performances: Check the program of the Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie and other theaters for upcoming performances.
• Art Exhibitions: Visit the Bozar and other art galleries to discover the works of talented artists from around the world.
• Street Art Walking Tour: Explore the vibrant street art scene in Brussels with a guided walking tour.

Relax in Brussels’ Parks and Gardens

Brussels boasts several beautiful parks and gardens where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some tranquility. The Parc de Bruxelles, located near the Royal Palace, offers expansive lawns, tree-lined paths, and stunning flowerbeds. The Park of Laeken, adjacent to the Royal Palace of Laeken, features picturesque gardens, a greenhouse, and the famous Atomium. Other notable parks in Brussels include the Botanical Garden, Josaphat Park, and the Woluwe Park.

• Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic and relax in one of Brussels’ parks, surrounded by nature.
• Botanical Garden Visit: Explore the beautiful Botanical Garden, which houses a wide variety of plants and flowers.

Conclusion

Brussels, Belgium offers a unique and elegant experience on a smaller scale. From its stunning architecture and world-class museums to its delectable cuisine and vibrant cultural scene, the city has something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring the historic Grand Place, indulging in Belgian chocolate, or admiring the Art Nouveau architecture, Brussels captivates with its charm and sophistication. So, immerse yourself in the elegance of Brussels and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting city.

References

• Pierre Marcolini – www.marcolini.com
• Neuhaus – www.neuhauschocolates.com
• Godiva – www.godiva.com
• Horta Museum – www.hortamuseum.be
• Delirium Café – www.deliriumvillage.com
• Moeder Lambic – www.moederlambic.com
• A La Mort Subite – www.alamortsubite.com
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium – www.fine-arts-museum.be
• Cinquantenaire Park – www.brussels.be/cinquantenaire-park
• Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie – www.lamonnaie.be
• Bozar – www.bozar.be