If you’re looking for a nice city to escape to for a weekend, our beautiful Belgian capital should appeal to you. Here’s an overview of original and authentic activities to enjoy Brussels as if you were a local.
Wander through Laeken
If the sun is shining, this little tour of Laeken is an ideal outing. This magnificent commune, the northernmost of Brussels’ capital cities, is rich in green spaces. You can start with a tour of the florist’s garden, make a detour to the little-known colonial garden and then head for the Chinese pavilion and Japanese tower. Unfortunately, these are no longer open to the public, but their stunning exterior architecture is well worth a detour.
Then head for the Osseghem park, at the end of which stands the Atomium. On the way, take time to admire the stone lacework of the monument to the dynasty and catch a glimpse of the facade of the Royal Castle, residence of the Belgian monarchy.
Finally, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the very pleasant André guinguette and take advantage of the park’s extensive lawns planted with trees. Nearby, you can also discover the beautiful collection of retro furniture at the Design Museum.
Take a Totemus tour
Totemus is a fun application offering free themed walks to discover the city. Halfway between a treasure hunt and a guided tour, it’s sure to please everyone! You’ll find tours in different parts of the city.
Set up in a restaurant or bar
In Brussels, we like to eat well, drink well and meet people. So to fully experience this trip to the capital of Europe, here’s my selection of food and drink venues in Brussels.
Place Fernand Coq: for all ages, from breakfast to late evening, this is the place to be for the locals. Numerous bars and cafés surround the square, so there’s something for everyone. My personal favorite? The friendly Café le Coq, with its sunny terrace all day long. The parvis de Saint Gilles, another square with the same atmosphere, is also well worth a visit.
Le Caleo Café: Close to Fernand Coq, come and discover this excellent brunch address and its large terrace.
Friterie Antoine :There’s always a queue, but it’s for a good reason. A classic place to eat French fries in Brussels.
Fernand Obb: An excellent croquette restaurant in Saint Gilles, without fuss but masters of this Belgian specialty.
Le Wolf: A common room for the stands of many restaurants: that’s the concept behind Le Wolf, ideal for keeping everyone happy. Beware, however, that the interior is often rather noisy.
Cokoa: A divine fine patisserie for gourmet lovers, but please note that it’s not possible to sit inside.
La Luck: A board game bar that also serves food in a friendly setting. The small courtyard in front is pleasant for warm evenings. You can even call on a game expert for recommendations and explanations, what better way to spend a convivial evening?
Coco Donuts: I love this address for a guilty pleasure in the afternoon, they offer a wide range of large donuts and everything is made on the premises.
La Cocina: the best pizza restaurant in Brussels!
Go shopping
If you’re a shopping lover you’ll find plenty of neighborhoods to stroll through, including the Chatelain district for independent and qualitative brands, rue Dansaert and rue de Namur for high-end or designer brands, and boulevard de Waterloo (parallel to avenue de la Toison d’Or) for luxury brands. If you’re looking for mass-market brands, head for chaussée d’Ixelles or rue Neuve.
For vintage enthusiasts, I highly recommend the Marolles flea market. Every morning, but even more so on Sundays, it’s the perfect place to stroll and look for treasures, mainly antique furniture and jewelry. Nearby you’ll find many vintage shops and antique dealers. If you’re a fan of second-hand goods, don’t miss the Central Petits Riens store on Rue Américaine, a classic for all Brussels locals. You’ll find furniture, clothes, children’s games and books, all neatly and attractively presented.
If you’re looking for a good book to read in the park or on the terrace, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at Filigranes.
Take a walk in the Bois de La Cambre
It’s THE Sunday appointment for ixellois: in fine weather, the lawns of the Bois de la Cambre are packed with people, but it’s still a real pleasure to stroll around. You can even rent a pedalo on the central lake.
Next door, in the Villa Empain, an architectural masterpiece of art nouveau, the Fondation Boghossian offers high-quality exhibitions of modern art. You’ll also find conferences on art, culture and politics. On the last Friday of every month from April to September, a nocturne is held by the pool, with live music. A Brussels event not to be missed!
Go to the theater
Brussels has a very active theater scene, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy a great night out. Whether you like classic plays (Théâtre Royal du Parc), experimental or committed creations (Le rideau, Théâtre Varia), thought-provoking works (Théâtre des galeries) or musicals (Foret National): there’s a theater for you! For one-man shows, head to the Kings Comedy Club or the Comedy Ket. And if you’d like to discover an improv show, take a look at the program at the CréaNova theater.
To get the most out of your outings, here’s a tip from the inhabitants of Brussels: the “last minute ticket” page on visite.brussels (formerly on the Arsene50 website). You’ll find tickets for shows, theater, cinema and exhibitions at half price for the same evening (reservations open between 12 noon and 5 p.m.)!
With this selection of 100% Brussels outings, you can enjoy the city to the full and get away from the traditional tourist circuits! There’s no better way to really discover the energy of Brussels…