What to Do in Brussels? Top Sights, Activities & Local Tips

The Central Route first takes you to the main attractions in the center of Brussels: Central Station, the Grand Place, and the famous Manneken Pis. Next, you’ll discover iconic spots such as Poelaert Square, the Palace of Justice, the Luxembourg district, Cinquantenaire Park, and Place Royale.

Explore all the must-see places just steps away from each stop:

Stop 1 : Central Station 📍

• Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: This Gothic gem in the heart of Brussels is renowned for its stained glass windows and stunning architecture. Open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Visits are suspended during services. Adress :  Esp. de la Sainte-Gudule - 1000 Bruxelles

• Mont des Arts: This public garden, located between Place Royale and the Grand-Place, provides a peaceful green break in the heart of Brussels. You can admire the fountains, rest on the benches, check out the small skatepark, and listen to the carillon in the covered passage. From here, the view over the rooftops and landmarks is stunning. The main entrance is on Rue du Mont des Arts.

• Place d’Espagne: A lively square surrounded by cafés, shops, and historic buildings. Ideal for a walk, admiring architecture, and soaking up the city’s atmosphere.

Stop 2 : Grand Place & Manneken Pis 📍

• Town Hall: Step into the heart of Brussels’ Town Hall and experience six centuries of history through an engaging, interactive tour. From the moment you arrive on the Grand-Place, admire the striking silhouette of this iconic Gothic masterpiece. Explore monumental staircases, historic chambers, and hidden gems at your own pace with the help of an audio guide, and travel through time as each room tells its own story. Adress : Grand-Place - 1000 Bruxelles

• Grand-Place: Often regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in the world, this iconic Brussels site charms visitors with its Gothic architecture and richly decorated guild houses. It houses the Town Hall and the King’s House, and hosts many festive and symbolic events throughout the year, including the flower carpet, Christmas markets, and concerts. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a must-visit to experience Brussels’ history and vibrant atmosphere.

  🚨Extend your visit with a friendly moment at La Brouette, open from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and enjoy a free full aperitif with the purchase of a menu.

• Manneken Pis: A small bronze statue with a big personality, Manneken Pis is one of Brussels’ most iconic symbols. Created in 1619 by Jérôme Duquesnoy the Elder, it embodies the playful and irreverent spirit of the city. Over time, it has acquired more than 1,000 costumes, displayed at the GardeRobe MannekenPis museum. The original statue is kept safe at the Museum of the City, making the public version a charming and whimsical glimpse into Brussels’ history and character.

• Bourse (Belgian Beer World): Enjoy an unexpected journey that is both educational, interactive and sensory. Discover the fascinating story of beer through fun anecdotes, learn about the brewing process, find out which beer suits you best, then enjoy a tasting at the rooftop Skybar with stunning views. Finish your visit with a stop at the Beer Shop, offering a great selection of beers and souvenirs. Address : Boulevard Anspach 80 - 1000 Bruxelles

  🚨Turn your visit into an even better experience with an exclusive on-site perk. Enjoy a free drink at the museum’s rooftop bar, included with your Belgian Beer World ticket.

   

Book your Belgian Beer World ticket 

• Choco-Story Brussels: Discover the fascinating journey from cocoa bean to the famous Belgian praline at this interactive chocolate museum. Explore a Maya temple, follow Cortés’ ship bringing cocoa to Europe, and see how chocolate was enjoyed at the French Court in the 17th century before becoming the iconic Belgian praline in the early 20th century. Tastings, and an audio guide are included, making it a treat for all ages. Open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adress: Rue de l'Étuve 41, 1000 Bruxelles

  🚨Enjoy a €1 discount at Choco-Story on presentation of your Tootbus ticket.

• Frietmuseum Brussels : A fun, interactive, educational and gourmet space entirely dedicated to the world of Belgian fries and their star ingredient, the potato. Discover over 1,600 collection items, vintage posters, interactive games, films and testimonials from fry masters, tracing 8,000 years of history, from potato cultivation to the cooking of traditional Belgian fries. An audio guide and a cone of fries with sauce are included. Open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, last entry at 5pm. Closed on December 25, January 1, and from January 5, 2026 to January 16, 2026. Adress: Rue de l'Etuve 26-28 - 1000 Bruxelles 

  🚨 Enjoy a €1 discount on your admission ticket upon presentation of your Tootbus ticket.

   

Stop 3 : Poelaert – Louise – Palace of Justice 📍

• Ferris Wheel: Known as "The View", this attraction invites you to climb high and enjoy Brussels from its highest point. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the capital, and at night, be amazed by its multicolored lights illuminating the city’s skyline. It is open every day from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Adress : Place Poelaert 1000 - Brussels 

  🚨Add a little extra to your discovery with an exclusive advantage linked to this attraction.

   

Book your Ferris Wheel ticket

• Palace of Justice: It is almost impossible to explore Brussels without noticing this monumental landmark rising above the city from Mont des Potences. Recognised as the largest courthouse in the world, it impresses with its 100 meter dome, towering columns, and vast Hall of Lost Steps. Adress : Place Poelaert 1000 - Brussels

• Marolles District : A lively, popular district, the Marolles blend a vibrant flea market, characterful streets and Brussels’ rebellious spirit. An authentic area filled with local curiosities and iconic spots like the Monument to the Living and the legendary Fuse.

• Louise Shopping Area : Chic and vibrant, the Louise area is perfect for a stroll between luxury boutiques, art galleries and Belle Époque buildings. After shopping, stop at Place Poelaert to enjoy one of the best views in Brussels. An elegant spot where culture, fashion and great food all come together.

Stop 4 : Luxembourg 📍

• European Parliament: The European Parliament Hemicycle is the center of debates and key votes for Europe. Free visits allow you to understand its role, learn how European institutions function, and, at certain times, observe a plenary session from the visitor gallery. Multimedia guided tours are available in 24 languages. Open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Adress: Place du Luxembourg 100 - 1050 Ixelles

• European Quarter : This district shows another side of Brussels, combining iconic European institutions, contemporary buildings and wide esplanades. Highlights include the European Parliament and the Parlamentarium, the Experience Europe museum, Leopold Park, and the striking architecture of the Berlaymont and Europa buildings, along with the highly appreciated cafés around Place du Luxembourg.

• Place du Luxembourg: Place du Luxembourg is a lively spot filled with cafés, terraces, and street activities. Perfect for relaxing, watching the neighborhood buzz, and soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the European Quarter. Adress: Place du Luxembourg - 1050 Ixelles

Stop 5 : Cinquantenaire 📍

• La Terrace Brewery : a friendly and elegant address facing Cinquantenaire Park. Belgian and international cuisine, warm service, and one of the most beautiful terraces in the heart of Etterbeek. Open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. (non-stop kitchen from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.). Address: Avenue des Celtes 1 - 1040 Brussels

  🚨A complimentary coffee or aperitif is offered with any lunch menu or daily special upon presentation of a Tootbus ticket. 

• Cinquantenaire Arcades: These monumental arches dominate Cinquantenaire Park and are among Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. Built to celebrate Belgium’s independence, they offer impressive views over the park and its surrounding museums, and showcase striking architecture that reflects the city’s history and ambition. Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire - 1000 Brussels

• Royal Army Museum : Located in Cinquantenaire Park, the Royal Army Museum showcases over ten centuries of military history, from the Middle Ages to the modern era. Visitors can explore armors, uniforms, weapons, aircraft and armored vehicles in a fascinating journey through time. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire - 1000 Brussels

• Art and History Museum: The Art & History Museum offers a captivating journey through civilizations and eras. Explore Egyptian mummies, prehistoric tools, medieval tapestries, Oriental collections and an impressive Easter Island statue. The Art Nouveau collection completes this unique cultural experience. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 10 - 1000 Brussels

Stop 6 : Place Royale 📍

• Royal Palace & Brussels Park: Explore the royal heart of Brussels. The Royal Palace impresses with its majestic façade and sumptuous interiors, open to the public in summer. Next door, Brussels Park, formerly Royal Park, features wide alleys, statues, and music kiosks. It’s a perfect spot to stroll, admire the architecture, and enjoy green space in the city center. Adress: Place des Palais - 1000 Bruxelles

• Magritte Museum: At Place Royale, visitors can explore the world of Belgian surrealism through a vast collection of works by René Magritte. With over 230 pieces including paintings, drawings, sculptures, objects, and films, the exhibits showcase the full spectrum of his surreal universe. Displays change regularly thanks to loans from institutions and private collectors. Open Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Address: Place Royale 2 - 1000 Brussels

• Mont des Arts : The Mont des Arts garden provides a scenic link between Place Royale and the Grand-Place, featuring green spaces, esplanades and city views. Highlights include the Royal Library of Belgium, fountains, benches, a skatepark, and the carillon that delights visitors and locals alike. Access is only via the entrance on Rue du Mont des Arts.

The Atomium & Mini Europe Route starts at Central Station, then continues to Place Rogier before heading towards the Atomium and Mini-Europe, perfect for a unique and family-friendly experience. The line ends at Brouckère–Centre, an ideal starting point for exploring the heart of the city on foot.

Explore all the must-see places around each stop:

Stop 2 : Rogier 📍

• Botanical Gardens: Nestled in Brussels’ Northern Quarter, the Botanical Gardens opened in 1829 and feature terraced French, Italian, and English-style gardens. Discover a variety of plants, including the iconic iris, stroll through the star-shaped rose garden and pond, and admire thirty bronze and stone sculptures. The glass building above houses the Wallonia-Brussels Federation Cultural Centre, offering concerts, cinema screenings, and exhibitions in intimate, welcoming spaces. Accessible for people with reduced mobility. Adress: Boulevard du Jardin Botanique - 1000 Bruxelles

• Rue Neuve Shopping Area : Rue Neuve is Brussels’ busiest shopping street. Featuring major international brands and accessible fashion stores, it draws both locals and tourists. The lively atmosphere and numerous cafés make it an ideal spot for a shopping break in the heart of the city. Adress: Rue Neuve - 1000 Brussels

Stop 3 : Atomium & Mini-Europe 📍

• Mini-Europe : Mini-Europe is a fascinating park where Europe’s wonders are displayed in miniature. Over 350 monuments, reproduced at 1/25 scale, sit among bonsais, flowered groves, and dwarf trees. Thousands of figurines and interactive animations make the visit fun and engaging: trigger the eruption of Vesuvius or watch the Ariane rocket take off. In two hours, explore the 27 European Union countries, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom, discovering their historical, architectural, and cultural treasures. Annual closure from January 5 to March 14, 2026. Address: Avenue du Football 1 - 1020 Laeken

  🚨Enjoy this must-see experience while benefiting from a special on-site offer.

   

Book your Mini-Europe ticket

• Atomium : Built for the 1958 World Expo, the Atomium is much more than a monument, it’s a unique experience where science, heritage, and history come together. Its spectacular shape, representing an iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times, has become a symbol of Brussels and Belgium. Enjoy the best panoramic views of the city while exploring a variety of exhibitions. The permanent exhibition traces over 65 years of the former Expo 58 pavilion. More than half of the route is dedicated to installations focused on digital arts. Currently, the Atomium invites you to discover CENTRALE, a digital installation immersing you in sound and light, Echoes of Distant Lights, a laser creation offering a poetic and aesthetic reflection on light, space, and time, and CROSSING, a digital and symphonic work where art and technology unite. The Atomium ticket automatically includes entry to the Design Museum Brussels, located just 150 m away. Explore the shops offering a wide range of unique souvenirs. Book on the official Atomium website Open daily: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Address: Place de l'Atomium 1 - 1020 Laeken

• King Baudouin Stadium: Today known worldwide, King Baudouin Stadium is the go-to venue for major sporting events and international concerts. Did you know it was originally called the “Centennial Stadium”? Built in 1930 on the Heysel site, it was inaugurated with a Belgium vs Netherlands football match. Since then, it has hosted national and international competitions as well as spectacular shows. Address: Avenue de Marathon, 135/2 - 1020 Laeken

• Heysel Palace : A landmark of the Heysel Plateau, the Grand Palace is part of a vast complex designed to host major fairs, trade shows, and large-scale exhibitions. Built for the 1935 World Expo, it was originally surrounded by eleven palaces, five of which remain today. Like the Atomium in 1958, it became the iconic structure of its exhibition and continues to shape Brussels’ architectural identity. Opening hours: Vary depending on exhibitions, please check the official website. Address: Place de Belgique 1 - 1020 Laeken

Stop 4 : De Brouckère – City Center 📍

• Belgian Beer World : Enjoy an unexpected journey that is both educational, interactive and sensory. Discover the fascinating story of beer through fun anecdotes, learn about the brewing process, find out which beer suits you best, then enjoy a tasting at the rooftop Skybar with stunning views. Finish your visit with a stop at the Beer Shop, offering a great selection of beers and souvenirs. Address : Boulevard Anspach 80 - 1000 Bruxelles

  🚨Enjoy a complimentary drink at the Belgian Beer World rooftop bar, included with your Belgian Beer World ticket.

   

  Book your Belgian Beer World ticket 

• La Monnaie Theatre : A cornerstone of Brussels’ cultural life, this historic opera house has played a major role in both the artistic and political history of Belgium. Founded in the early 18th century, it became a symbol of the Belgian Revolution in 1830. Rebuilt and modernised over time, it now stands out for its neoclassical façade and its prestigious programme, combining major operas, contemporary productions and international concerts. Adress: Place de la Monnaie - 1000 Bruxelles

• Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert: Just steps from the Grand Place, the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert are among the most elegant covered passages in Europe. Opened in 1847, they consist of three interconnected galleries topped by an impressive glass roof that floods the space with natural light. Originally designed as a refined promenade in the 19th century, they now host boutiques, cafés, restaurants, a theatre and a cinema. A true Brussels landmark, the galleries are also known as the birthplace of the praline and the venue of Belgium’s very first film screening. Adress: Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert - 1000 Bruxelles