Luxury Guide To Brussels
Belgian’s capital city of Brussels is full of tasty chocolate, locally crafted beer, over 90 museums and a whole lot more for visitors to experience.
Brussels also holds a big connection to the European Union, hosting the official seats of the Europian Commission. Brussels is the perfect city for weekend getaways.
Having a luxury travel experience in Brussels allows you to behold the best aspects of the city in a getaway you are sure to remember.
Find out how to experience the finer things in life with our luxury travel guide to Brussels, which includes where to stay, eat and the very best tour experiences to enjoy in the city.
This guide is perfect for those who are travelling to Brussels on a luxury. We will show you what to do in Brussels, where to stay, what to eat and how to get around, whether it’s a weekend in Brussels or a long term stay.
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The best time to visit Brussels
The best time to visit Brussels is between the months of either March and May or September and October.
These months are outside of peak tourism season meaning there are fewer crowds, less expensive room rates, and fewer crowds at the cities top tourist attractions.
How to get around Brussels
The very best way to get around Brussels is on foot. Not only is the city very walkable, but the old town has a lot of pedestrianized roads, meaning places are just easier to access on foot.
Apart from walking, Brussels has a very good public transport network, including a metro, buses and trams. If you purchase a Brussels Card, you can use this throughout these public transport networks to make travelling around a cinch.
What to expect in Brussels
Interestingly, Brussels is officially bilingual. You will find that all road signs and documents are written in both French and Dutch. English is also widely spoken here making it easy for visitors to navigate.
Belgium is also one of the European countries that use the Euro. If you are visiting several European nations on your trip, this means you won’t have to faff around with transferring money between lots of currencies.
In terms of tipping, you will discover that there is a service charge added in restaurants so you do not have to tip. Although if you had incredible service, you can always add a few extra euros.
Luxury things to do in Brussels
Palais de Justice
Being the most important court building in Belgium, the Palace of Justice is an incredible sight worth a visit. When the building was first finished in 1883, it was actually the largest building in the world. You’ll be wowed by the beautiful exterior, but wait until you see inside, which is sure to leave you speechless.
Atomium
The Atomium may look like something from the future, but it’s one of the most iconic sights of Brussels. Visit for a surreal walk through its tubes and spheres, where inside you’ll find exhibition spaces and even a restaurant with fantastic panoramic views.
The Royal Palace of Brussels
The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the Belgium Royal Family. However, it is worth noting that it is not where the royal family live.
They actually live just on the outskirts of the city. The palace though opens it’s doors to the public every summer, from the end of July to the start of September.
The best part is entrance is free of charge, except for on Mondays. The palace is full of regal works of art, including a piece that is made up of thousands of beetles stuck to the ceiling.
The Cinquantenaire
Otherwise known as the Triumphal Arc, the Cinquantenaire was built in Brussels as a 50th birthday present to Belgium.
Alongside the arc, here you will discover beautifully kept gardens and museums including the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces.
Comic book culture
The creator of the world-famous comic book Tintin was from Belgium, so to celebrate, all over Brussels, you will spot epic street art murals depicting this much-loved character.
You will also find a Tintin art gallery, overflowing with Tintin books and lots of comfortable sofas so you can buckle down and read all your favourite comics.
Mini Europe theme park
Ever wondered how can you see all of Europe’s most famous landmarks in one day? Visit the Mini-Europe theme park in Brussels. Located next to Atomium, Mini-Europe features models based on sights from all over the European Union.
You’ll see the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, The Acropolis, and a mini Nyhavn from Copenhagen.
The European Parliament
The European Parliament is based in Brussels and visitors are welcome to discover more about the institution’s history and its evolution over time.
Visiting the parliament is free and there is an interactive guide available in each of the 24 official languages of the EU.
National botanical gardens
This renowned botanical garden houses over 18,000 species of plants. The impressive greenhouse and plant palace are both full of beautiful tropical plants.
Alongside being open to visitors, the Botanical Garden is also dedicated to the conservation and protection of plants, partnering with conservation organizations to do so.
An evening at the opera
For a truly luxurious experience in Brussels, opt for a night at the Opera. Known in French as La Monnaie or as de Munt in Dutch.
The Opera house is a cultural institution, hosting an impressive range of opera, ballet and theatre performances.
Rue Antoine Dansaert and Rue des Chartreux
For some of the most exclusive shopping in Brussels, the Rue Antoine Dansaert and Rue des Chartreux are must-visit destinations.
Here you will find plenty of unique fashion designs, mixed with large international brands. Browse the range of boutique stores to discover the very best Belgian designs.
Sablon Antiques District
This area of Brussels is recommended for those who love to shop for antiques. The weekend market at Place du Grand Sablon sees dealers pitch up to sell their wares.
On display, you’ll discover silverware, paintings, furniture and a whole range of antique items.
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Another fantastic premium shopping destination in Brussels is the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.
The gallery opened in 1847 and is now bursting full of luxury boutiques, Belgian chocolate shops, stores selling pastries and biscuits, bookshops, a theatre, a cinema and restaurants, all in a historically elegant setting.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Belgium
If you are searching for your fine arts fix, the go to the destination in Brussels is the collection of museums in the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
The vast collection of works stretches from the 15th to the 21st centuries, with plenty of artwork from both Belgium and the Netherlands.
Royal Museum for Central Africa
For an immersive look into the diverse history, nature and culture from the African continent, pay a visit to the Royal Museum of Central Africa.
Emerging from the difficult colonial era, the museum was built to showcase the finds from King Leopold II’s Congo state. From there, the museum has evolved to instead look at the relationship that Africa and Europe now share.
The Grand Place
The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels. This beautifully decorated UNESCO world heritage site is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful medieval squares across the whole of Europe, as well as of course being the centre of historic Brussels.
Where to stay in Brussels – Luxury Hotels
To really experience the luxury side of Brussels, a stay in one of the cities most prestigious hotels is mandatory. Here are some of the best Brussels luxury hotels. If hotels aren’t your jam, you can check out Airbnb.
Forte Hotel Amigo – The five star Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo is set within characterful cobbled streets, and only a short walking distance from Brussels antique district is Hotel Amigo. The hotel is also designed in a way that was inspired by the cities history.
Odette en Ville – Bursting with the charm of the 1920s, this boutique hotel’s stylish rooms are decorated using only the finest materials. At the hotel, you will also find a library, a restaurant and a bar.
The Dominican – This 4-star hotel not only offers guests stylish accommodation but a range of wellness facilities including the on-site sauna and fitness centre. Visit the lounge bar for its range of exotic cocktails, or dine at the Grand Lounge restaurant.
Sofitel Brussels – Set among the leafy parks and near some amazing museums is the 5-star Sofitel Brussels hotel. Here you will find luxurious french design and high-class Belgian cuisine.
Luxury eats in Brussels
Comme Chez Soi – Serving up inspired French cuisine in an art nouveau setting is two Michelin starred Comme Chez Soi. The restaurant was founded in 1926, with over four generations serving speciality dishes to fortunate guests.
La Truffe Noire – This elegant restaurant focuses on preparing dishes that are bursting with distinct flavours and presented in a highly thoughtful way. Each day the chef demonstrates his affinity for classic cuisine and prepares the dish beef carpaccio in front of guests.
Chocolatiers Pierre Marcolini – For some of the finest Belgian chocolates on offer in the capital, look no further than Chocolatiers Pierre Marcolini exquisite store located at the Place du Grand Sablon.
Luxury tours to do in Brussels
A Feast for Foodies in Brussels: Private Experience with City Host
Explore the very best of Brussels delicious cuisine with a local guide in this private experience. This culinary tour will take you to spots only a Brussels local would know.
Discover cosy taverns and family run restaurants while you learn about the history of the cities cuisine.
Private World War I Flanders Battlefields Tour from Brussels
This private tour from Brussels to Flanders is a poignant way to commemorate over 100 years since the end of the First World War. Visit memorial sites and attend an emotional Last Post ceremony, dedicated to those who lost their lives defending the city of Ypres.
The Ultimate Chocolate Experience: Brussels with a Local
Chocolate lovers can rejoice as this ultimate experience allows you to try the best chocolates on offer throughout Brussels. Alongside a private guide, visit a range of chocolate boutiques, and stop at the oldest chocolate shop in Brussels.
As well as learning all about how the chocolate is made, you get to sample up to eight chocolatey treats.
Belgian Beer Discovery
Is a trip to Brussels really complete without sampling some of the best beer in the world? Beer Connoisseurs look no further than this three-hour walking tour, that takes you to some of the cities best-loved pubs. Led by a private guide, you’ll learn all about Brussels beer culture, and sample up to eight locally brewed beers.
Christmas in Brussels: Private Experience with a City Host
During the festive season, Brussels lights up in a magical way. If you are planning a visit to Brussels over the Christmas period, this private tour will help you make the most of your time, as well as get insider tips on the best Christmas markets in the city and were to see the most breathtaking Christmas lights.
Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home
This experience is perfect for foodies, who are ready to take a hands-on approach. Take a tour of one of Brussels organic markets, followed by a cooking lesson and gourmet meal in the home of a Brussels local.
Learn some new recipes and get a real insight into what it is like to live in Brussels. Also a great opportunity to pick up some local travel tips.
Private tour: Art Nouveau Heritage focus on Victor Horta Brussels and Antwerp Half day
This personalised private tour will explore the history of art nouveau in Belgium. A driver will pick you up from your hotel and whisk you away to the best spots for art nouveau in both Brussels and Antwerp.
Highlights include Victor Horta’s house and art nouveau districts such as sq. Ambiorix, Ixelles Trinité and Ixelles Ponds.
Recommended Luxury tours in Brussels
- Private tour : Luxembourg & Dinant from Brussels Full day
- Private tour :Traditional Holland and Amsterdam city tour from Brussels Full day
- Tour of Flanders World War I Battlefields from Brussels
- Private Chocolate Tour : Visit Brussels while you are eating chocolates
- Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle & Belgian Whiskey (ALL-IN-ONE) tour
- BEST Brussels Sightseeing Tour Including View of the City from the Basilica Dome
- Full Day shopping Maasmechelen Village by luxury car from Brussels Roundtrip
- Private Tour: Battle of Waterloo from Brussels
- Private Tour: WWI Canadian Battlefields Including Thiepval Memorial, Beamont-Hamel, Vimy Ridge and Last Post Ceremony in Ypres from Brussels
- Private Tour: Luxembourg and Bouillon Day Trip from Brussels
- Private Tour: Keukenhof Gardens Day Trip from Brussels
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