Best museums in Brussels

Royal Museums of Fine Arts (Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts)

One of Brussels’ most important cultural centers and one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious art museum complexes.

Founded in 1801, it has since amassed a rich collection containing over 20,000 artworks. The museums are divided into four separate institutions, each covering different periods and styles:

• Museum of Old Masters: showcases European painting from the 15th to the 18th century, especially Flemish and Dutch masters. Key pieces in the collection include works by Pieter Bruegel, Peter Paul Rubens, and Anthony van Dyck.
• Museum of Modern Art focuses on 19th and 20th-century art, with particular emphasis on Belgian artists. The collection includes symbolist works by James Ensor and Fernand Khnopff, as well as pieces by Constant Permeke and Paul Delvaux.
• The Magritte Museum focuses on the oeuvre of Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte. It’s one of the world’s largest Magritte collections, showcasing over 200 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs.
• The Fin-de-Siècle Museum showcases the period from the late 19th to early 20th century when Brussels became an important center of the art world. Works displayed here include Art Nouveau, decorative arts, and the influence of literature and music on visual arts.

All information can be found here!

BELvue Museum

Located in the former Bellevue Palace, this museum showcases Belgium’s rich history and development.

Its permanent exhibition presents Belgium’s history divided into seven major themes: democracy, social progress, economic development, social relations, culture, education, and international relations.

The museum displays unique historical objects such as personal items of Belgian kings and queens, political documents, old photographs, and posters, helping visitors learn about Belgium’s past.

All information can be found here!

City Museum

This museum presents the rich past and cultural heritage of Brussels’ history. It’s located on the Grand-Place square, in the elegant Maison du Roi (King’s House) building.

Its main purpose is to showcase Brussels’ historical development from the Middle Ages to the present day. The exhibitions use maps, models, documents, and artifacts to illustrate the city’s architectural changes, economic growth, and cultural flourishing.

One of its most popular sections is the history and costume collection of the famous Manneken Pis statue. This small bronze statue, one of Brussels’ most well-known landmarks, receives special outfits for various celebrations and events. The museum displays hundreds of costumes that Manneken Pis has worn on different occasions.

The museum pays special attention to Brussels’ famous carpet and tapestry-making tradition. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Brussels was world-renowned for these luxury items. Additionally, its rich painting collection captures various periods in the city’s history.

All information can be found here!

Museum of Natural Sciences (Museum voor Natuurwetenschappen)

One of the world’s oldest natural science museums, particularly famous for its impressive dinosaur collection.

The Dinosaur Gallery is among the world’s largest exhibitions of its kind. The main attraction is the collection of Bernissart iguanodons, discovered in 1878 in a Belgian mine. The skeletons were preserved almost intact, and visitors can see 30 skeletons as part of the exhibition.

The museum also covers several other topics. The Earth’s Origin and Evolution exhibition showcases our planet’s geological history and the emergence of life. The History of Life section traces the development of living beings from the first single-celled organisms to complex ecosystems.

All information can be found here!

Choco-Story Brussels

Who hasn’t heard of Belgian chocolate!

Located near the Main Square, this museum presents the history of chocolate from its beginnings to modern production technologies, including praline manufacturing.

One of the museum’s highlights is the chocolate-making demonstration, where experienced master chocolatiers show traditional and modern chocolate-making techniques. Of course, visitors also get to taste samples!

All information can be found here!

Comic Art Museum

Also known as the Comic Strip Center, this museum showcases the past and present of comics from their inception.

Why is this museum here? Because Belgium has the highest number of comic artists in the world. Many world-famous comic book artists and characters originate from here, such as Tintin, Lucky Luke, and the Smurfs.

The museum offers colorful and diverse programs, events, and group guided tours, and it also has its own library.

All information can be found here!

Beer Museum

Located on the Main Square, this museum provides insight into Belgian brewing traditions, which date back over 1000 years. Belgium has hundreds of beer types and breweries.

Visitors can learn about the history of brewing from early times when beer was made in monasteries, up to modern breweries. The most interesting part is the exhibition of traditional brewing equipment. Here you can see old brewing apparatus such as copper kettles, fermentation tanks, and other brewing tools.

Belgium is famous for its diverse beer types, and in the museum, visitors can learn in detail about different beer styles, such as light beers, wheat beers, brown ales, as well as special Trappist and abbey beers.

Of course, tasting is also part of the experience!

All information can be found here!

Musical Instruments Museum

One of the most impressive music museums in the world, housed in the former Old England department store building in Art Nouveau style.

Founded in 1877, it’s part of the Belgian Royal Museums of Fine Arts and History. The museum’s collection was originally based on the Belgian royal family’s collection and has continuously expanded over the years with donations, purchases, and instruments acquired through archaeological excavations.

One of the most significant parts of the museum is the collection of historical instruments, featuring instruments from different eras and places. This includes instruments from ancient civilizations such as Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures, as well as instruments from the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

All information can be found here!

Autoworld

The museum is located in the impressive building of Cinquantenaire Park and showcases more than 250 classic, vintage, and modern cars from various periods and countries.

One of its main attractions is the rich collection of vintage and classic cars, displaying models made in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These include the first motorized vehicles created at the dawn of motoring. Early models of iconic brands such as Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Ford, and Bentley can be seen.

The museum pays special attention to the history of the Belgian automotive industry. Belgium boasts several famous car brands, such as Minerva and Excelsior. Additionally, the museum has a collection of modern sports cars and race cars. Visitors can see Ferraris, Porsches, Lamborghinis, and other famous sports cars.

All information can be found here!

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Brussels attractions

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It’s the capital of Belgium and Flanders, and the seat of the EU and NATO. Brussels and the entire capital region are officially bilingual, with French and Dutch having equal status.

Brussels attractions

Grand Place (Grote Markt / Grand-Place)

The more than 300-year-old main square is the center of the old town, surrounded by guild houses. One of these is the Broodhuis, the building of the bakers’ guild, now the city museum.

The square is famous for its impressive architectural style, which combines Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements. Particularly impressive is the Flower Carpet (Tapis de Fleurs), held every two years, during which beautiful patterns are created on the square using thousands of begonia flowers.

From April to September, there’s also a musical light show that offers a wonderful spectacle.

City Hall (Hotel de Ville)

The most characteristic building on the Grand Place, with its spire visible from many points in the city.

Built in the early 15th century, it’s one of the best examples of Flemish Gothic architecture. Its facade is richly decorated with various Gothic elements such as lace-like stone carvings, statues, and arches.

One of the building’s most striking features is the tall, 96-meter high tower that rises from the central part of the building. At the top of the tower is a statue of the city’s patron saint, Saint Michael.

The interior of the building is also impressive, especially with the decorations of the Great Council Chamber (Salle des États) and the Lesser Council Chamber (Salle du Collège).

King’s House (Maison du Roi)

Also located on the Grand Place, it was built in Neo-Gothic style, and its lace-like facade offers a fairy-tale view.

Originally built in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, it served as the city’s market administration building. The Neo-Gothic transformation took place in the 19th century when it underwent significant renovation and expansion.

Its name is due to the fact that the building once served as the official residence of the Belgian royal family. Today it houses the City Museum (Musée de la ville de Bruxelles).

t’Serclaes Monument

Located on the corner of one of the houses on the Grand Place, this monument is one of the city’s iconic attractions.

Éverard t’Serclaes was a Brussels nobleman known for his heroic deed. In 1356, when Louis, Count of Flanders, tried to capture Brussels, t’Serclaes recaptured the city in a night raid. This secured Brussels’ independence.

The central element of the monument is the bronze statue of Éverard t’Serclaes lying down. The statue is extremely detailed, depicting t’Serclaes in ornate armor and cloak.

Many superstitions and beliefs are associated with the monument. One of the most well-known beliefs is that touching t’Serclaes’ statue brings good luck and fulfills wishes. As a result, certain parts of the statue, especially the arm and head, are shinier from all the touching.

Manneken Pis

One of Brussels’ most famous and beloved attractions. The tiny bronze statue has become a symbol of the Belgian capital.

The statue is only 61 cm tall. The original has been stolen several times, so a copy is on display. The original can be found in the Brussels City Museum.

The statue is often dressed in various costumes. This tradition dates back to the 17th century. It has hundreds of different outfits that it wears on special occasions or national holidays.

There are several legends about its origin. One of the most famous stories is that a little boy saved Brussels from a fire by urinating on the flames. Another story says that a lost boy was found in the city, and this is how they commemorated him when he was finally found.

Mont des Arts

Located on a hill where several great buildings and a beautiful park can be found: Albert I Library, Gallery, and the Protestant Church (Église Protestante de Bruxelles-Musée).

In front of the park rises an equestrian statue of Albert I.

Carillon of the Mont des Arts

This tower is located on the Mont des Arts (Hill of the Arts), where we can see a carillon on its wall.

The carillon consists of 24 bells that play different melodies every hour. These melodies evoke various Belgian historical and cultural events.

A clock is also visible on the wall, surrounded by moving figures. The figures represent Belgian historical personalities and move when the clock strikes.

Royal Palace (Palais Royal/Koninklijk Paleis)

The official residence of the Belgian king and queen, although the family doesn’t live here but in Laeken.

Built in the 18th century, it gained its current form at the end of the 19th century. The site was previously occupied by the ducal palace of Brussels.

The palace’s interior spaces show lavish decoration, with rich gilding, artworks, and elegant furniture. Particularly noteworthy is the Hall of Mirrors, whose ceiling was covered by artist Jan Fabre with tiny beetle shells, creating a stunning green light effect.

Every year from July 22 to early September, except Mondays, the building can be visited for free. The exact closing date can be checked here.

Parc de Bruxelles

It’s worth taking a walk in the large park next to the Royal Palace. There are wide promenades, many statues, and two small ponds in the symmetrically arranged park.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Cœur à Koekelberg)

This is one of Brussels’ most impressive and well-known religious buildings.

The foundation stone was laid in 1905 to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Belgian King Albert I’s reign. However, construction lasted several decades and was only fully completed in 1970, largely funded by donations from the faithful.

Various styles are present in the world’s fifth-largest church. It is 89 meters long, 167 meters wide, and the dome reaches a height of 93 meters.

It’s possible to climb up into the dome, where a circular terrace offers a magnificent view of the city.

Notre-Dame du Sablon (Église catholique Notre-Dame-du-Sablon)

A Gothic cathedral similar to French architecture, a monumental creation and a must-see in Brussels.

Its interior is worth seeing too, with an altar carved from a single block of wood and impressive stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes. These windows create a special light effect in the interior.

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral (Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule)

The truncated twin-towered church represents Gothic style, although it was originally built in Romanesque style.

The northern chapel houses some outstanding pieces from the church’s treasury, including an Anglo-Saxon reliquary dated to around 1000, which holds fragments of the Holy Cross.

The Roman style is referenced by the Roman crypt and Roman ruins.

Entrance to the church is free, but visiting the treasury, Roman ruins, and Treasury is paid! All information can be found here!

Atomium

Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, this structure is also one of the city’s symbols.

The Atomium is a 165 billion times enlarged model of an iron atom, consisting of nine steel spheres, each 18 meters in diameter. The spheres are connected by tubes 3 meters in diameter, and the whole structure is 102 meters high. The building is made of steel and aluminum.

Five of its spheres can be visited, three of which house permanent and temporary exhibitions, as well as a panoramic restaurant.

From the top sphere, there’s a breathtaking view of Brussels and the surrounding areas. On a clear day, you can see as far as Antwerp.

All information can be found here!

Mini-Europe

An outdoor model park where you can see miniature versions of famous buildings from the European Union. Hungary is represented by the Széchenyi Bath.

More than 350 buildings from 80 different cities can be seen, each scaled down to 1:25. You can see the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, and the Acropolis in Athens, among others.

All information can be found here!

Laeken

In this district, we find the royal castle, which is the home of the royal family.

North of the royal estate in the park are the Japanese Tower (Tour Japonaise/Japanese Toren) and the Chinese Pavilion (Pavillon Chinois/Chinees Paviljoen). Both were purchased by Leopold II at the 1900 Paris World’s Fair.

South of the royal estate is the Neo-Gothic Church of Our Lady of Laeken (Notre Dame du Laeken), which houses the crypt of the Belgian royal family.

European Parliament

The headquarters of the EU’s two executive institutions, the Council of Ministers and the European Commission, are located here. This is why Brussels is often called the capital of the EU.

The Parlamentarium is a visitor center where you can get information about how the EU works. Entrance is free!

La Cambre Abbey (Abbaye de la Cambre)

The Benedictine abbey, founded in 1201, is located in the southeastern district of Ixelles.

Nowadays, it houses an art school, the Belgian National Geographical Institute, and parish organizations, surrounded by beautiful French gardens.

Delirium Café

A paradise for beer lovers, this Guinness record-holding place.

More than 200 types of draft beer await visitors, where they can also try drinking from a 1-liter boot-shaped mug. Here, everything is truly about beer!

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Belgium is a member of the Benelux countries. It has land borders with the Netherlands to the north, Germany and Luxembourg to the east, and France to the south and west. It is an ethnically and linguistically diverse country, with three main groups, the Dutch-speaking Flemish, the French-speaking Walloons and a German-speaking community in the eastern region.

Best places in Belgium

Bruges

The city became known to many through the film „In Bruges” and it is indeed as beautiful as it is portrayed.

Bruges, also known as the „Venice of the North”, is one of Belgium’s most visited destinations. The city is intersected by numerous canals, alongside which you can find colorful, medieval buildings.

I visited in June 2022 and can confirm: it truly is a charming city where you can walk for hours, enjoying the sights and atmosphere.

Bruges attractions

Brussels

Long overlooked by many as just the „capital of the EU”, Brussels is definitely worth a visit.

While the European Parliament and the Atomium are well-known, Brussels is also home to numerous museums and beautiful buildings.

I enjoyed my time in Brussels; it’s a very charming and beautiful capital city.

Brussels attractions

Dinant

Located in a valley between Namur and the French border, this picturesque town is a must-see.

Dinant’s attractions include the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant and the Citadel above it. The fortress, built in the 11th century, was constructed to control the Meuse Valley. It gained its current form in the 19th century. You can reach the top by 408 steps from the church or by a cable car.

Ghent

Many say that visiting Ghent is a must, in addition to Bruges. Like Bruges, Ghent is also crisscrossed by several canals.

In the Middle Ages, it was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Northern Europe. Often referred to as the „Florence of the North” for its variety of themed museums, the most famous of which is the Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Museum of Fine Arts) featuring works by Hieronymus Bosch, Jean Fouquet, and other Flemish masters.

The city center is car-free, allowing you to explore the attractions on foot or by bike: St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and the beautifully designed old Graslei harbor.

Ghent attractions

Antwerp

The capital of Flanders, Antwerp is an important city in the Benelux region both economically and culturally.

The city is put on the world map by diamonds. Nearly 90% of the world’s diamond trade takes place in Antwerp. But the city boasted great prosperity even in the Middle Ages, which is reflected in its buildings.

Among its rich monuments, the Cathedral of Our Lady stands out as the tallest cathedral in the Low Countries. Another famous building is Het Steen fortress on the banks of the Schelde River, the oldest building in Antwerp.

A key figure in its art history is Rubens. The painter worked here, and a large part of his house, now a museum, was designed by him. This makes it a must-see in Antwerp!

Antwerp attractions, weather

Best museums in Antwerp

Liège

Situated in the Meuse Valley, Liège is one of the largest industrial and cultural centers of Wallonia.

The mix of various minorities (French, German, Italian) living here has created a unique lifestyle. This is evident in speech: the residents speak a distinctive dialect of Walloon.

Liège is known for its festivals and various events. The most famous is the „Le Quinze Août” celebration held in August, showcasing local traditions.

The city has a vibrant nightlife: the Le Carré district is full of pubs, bars, cafes, and other entertainment venues.

Leuven

Located about 25 km from Brussels, Leuven is perfect for a day trip for those who love charming small towns.

Its most beautiful attraction is the old town hall, located in Grote Markt square. The building, with a Gothic, lace-like facade, features more than 200 statues!

Leuven also has a Hungarian connection: after World War I, the „Old Hungarian Lamentations of Mary” manuscript was brought here. This codex is our first known poetic relic. Additionally, the Collegium Hungaricum has been operating here since 1948.

If you love beer, you might have come across the name Leuven. It’s home to the world’s largest brewing company, where Stella Artois is produced.

Namur

This city was an important military location for a long time, which contributes to its significance in Belgium today. The Parliament of Wallonia is located here.

Its most famous attraction and landmark is the Citadel above the city. This is the country’s largest fortress of its kind. The view is magnificent over the city and the Meuse and Sambre rivers.

Moreover, walking through the charming streets of the old town is worthwhile. The Saint Aubin’s Cathedral, museums, and beautiful houses are must-see attractions.

Baarle-Nassau

This town has been listed among the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. But how can a town be in two countries!?

Well, part of the town belongs to Belgium and another part to the Netherlands. Moreover, there are small Dutch areas within the Belgian territories. The complicated border is the result of medieval treaties, agreements, land swaps, and sales.

The town is not bothered by this situation, especially because of the tourists. There are even houses where the border runs „through”, subjecting the residents to the laws of both countries.

Ypres

Located in the southwestern part of Belgium, near the French border, this city was an important battlefield during World War I.

The Menin Gate memorial commemorates the Commonwealth soldiers who died for the city and in the surrounding battles during the First World War and whose graves are unknown.

In the city center, the 13th-century Cloth Hall is the most imposing. It was one of the largest commercial buildings of the Middle Ages and is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Ooidonk Castle (Kasteel Ooidonk)

One of Belgium’s most beautiful castles, inhabited by the t’Kint de Roodenbeke family.

A fortress originally stood on the current castle’s site but was later demolished. It was rebuilt in the Renaissance style by an Antwerp merchant. The t’Kint de Roodenbeke family acquired it in 1864.

The castle and park are open to tourists for a limited period.

Oostende

Although Belgium is not famous for its beaches, Oostende’s beach is well-known in Europe.

The city has a sandy coastline along which runs a long promenade. Excellent hotels await tourists, justifying its old nickname „The Queen of Beaches”.

Since there is a direct train line from Brussels through Ghent and Bruges, it’s easy to visit here as part of a pleasant day trip.

Kortrijk

The city in West Flanders is an important historical and cultural site. Here, in 1302, the Battle of the Golden Spurs took place, where the Flemish won against the French.

Its old town hosts the Belfry, a medieval bell tower that is part of UNESCO World Heritage and symbolizes the city’s independence. Another significant building is the late Gothic, early Renaissance-style City Hall on the main square, adorned with statues of the Counts of Flanders.

Kortrijk’s medieval history is also reminded by the Our Lady’s Hospital, as well as the only remaining part of the medieval city walls, the Broel Towers, including a bridge spanning the Lys river.

Tournai

This town near the French border is one of Belgium’s oldest cities.

Its main attraction is the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Romanesque cathedral, later expanded with Gothic elements, is part of UNESCO World Heritage. It houses one of the most important Christian relics, the sarcophagus of Saint Rocus.

Several significant museums operate here. The most famous is the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts), designed by Victor Horta. It contains significant art collections, ranging from medieval and Renaissance works to modern and contemporary pieces.

It’s also famous for its industrial heritage, particularly the ceramics industry, which flourished in the Middle Ages and still plays an important role in the city’s economy today.

Durbuy

Often referred to as the „smallest city in the world.” It earned this title in 1331 when it had only a few hundred inhabitants, but still retains this designation today.

Its old town’s winding streets, historic buildings, and ancient paved squares bring back the medieval atmosphere, making it popular among tourists.

When here, don’t forget to visit the Topiary Park. This unique garden contains more than 250 sculpted plant figures, which is the largest collection of its kind in Europe.

Hasselt

The capital of the Flemish province of Limburg is known for its friendly atmosphere, rich cultural life, and numerous green spaces.

Its most significant building is the Saint Quentin Cathedral. It is especially famous for its high tower, visible from afar. The cathedral contains the relics of Saint Quentin, to whom the cathedral is dedicated, and who is the patron saint of Hasselt.

It also has Europe’s largest Japanese garden, reflecting Japanese culture and philosophy.

La Roche-en-Ardenne

This small town in the Ardennes is popular among hikers and those who enjoy active relaxation besides its historical landmarks.

The ruins of the medieval castle on the hill above the town are one of the main attractions of La Roche-en-Ardenne. The castle offers a magnificent view of the surroundings.

The town’s history is closely linked to World War II. The War Museum presents the events that took place in the region, with special attention to the battles and the life of the civilian population.

Veurne

In this town near the Belgian coast and the French border, we can see several well-preserved medieval buildings.

The Grote Markt (Great Market) in the town center is one of the main attractions, around which the town’s most important buildings are grouped. Particularly notable is the Saint Walburga Church, an impressive Gothic building, as well as the Town Hall.

Another significant attraction is the Spanish Pavilion, dating from the Spanish rule, and representing a fine example of Flemish Renaissance architecture.

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