Where in the world is Brussels? #Brussels #Travel

Where in the world is Brussels?  Is it a city?  Is it its own country?  Is that where Brussel Sprouts come from?  Brussels is the capital city of Belgium, land of the chocolate.  Since the end of World War II, Brussels has become a hub of political activity in Europe.  Because of this, it’s also the de facto capital of the European Union and has a very unique stature in the world. There is also an enormously eclectic assortment of sights to see.

Palais de Justice is the historic high court of Brussels.  Perched on the top of a hill overlooking the city, it provides some of the best views of Brussels.

Grand Place is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe.  Once a bustling marketplace, it’s now mostly filled with small shops, boutiques, and eateries.  When walking into the marketplace it takes your breath away.  It’s enormous and busy.  There are several outside cafes.  And the history and beauty of the architecture is amazing. It is easy to see why this is Brussels’ most memorable landmark.

I stopped and had a glass of wine at night, and wow!  The sites of the marketplace at night with the changing vibrant lights are spectacular and something that everyone should see!

Peeing Boy, or Mannekin Pis to the locals, is a bronze statue that has taken on a life of its own.  It has attracted thousands of tourists, and locals feel the need to include it in various celebrations year-round.  It also has upwards of 700 costumes for various celebrations from around the world!  The thing that surprised me most was the size of the Mannekin Pis.  It’s tiny and with a crowd around the fountain it’s hard to see.  The city pays homage to this beloved landmark by having them everywhere.  Eating waffles, as beer taps, even chocolates.

During our bus tour we also saw The Infantry Memorial of Brussels.  It stands in memory of the Belgian foot soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II.

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a Roman Catholic church at the Treurenberg Hill in Brussels, Belgium. It serves as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels.

The Town Hall of the City of Brussels is a Gothic building from the Middle Ages. It is located on the famous Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium.

Of course, you can’t miss the Atomium.  Built for the 1958 World’s Fair, it’s based on a single iron crystal that has been enlarged 165 billion times the normal size.   It was lovingly restored and reopened in 2004.  The top sphere has a restaurant with panoramic views of Brussels and is accessible with an elevator.  While several of the other spheres are open to the public, they’re only accessible via escalator.  Retro and vintage flair at its finest.

Remember when we talked about chocolate all the way at the beginning?  Yeah, I didn’t forget.  The Zaabar chocolate factory tour is a must see.  You can get a behind the scenes look at how chocolate is made.  From watching them pouring chocolate bars, molding chocolates, and oh so much more.  Of course, you’ll want to pick up some tasty treats, too.  Zaabar was one of the innovators of melding spices into their exquisite chocolate bars and truffles.

For lodging, you may wish to consider the Bedford Hotel.  Located just steps from the Grand Place, this hotel has all the modern amenities that you could possibly desire.  Although there are 326 rooms, it doesn’t feel like you’re one of the masses.  Small touches like the L’Occitane toiletries and Italian marble make the Bedford Hotel feel luxurious.

Brussels has a thriving art scene, as well.  One of the homes of the gorgeous Art Noveau design, there are several museums dedicated to the style of art, like the famous BOZAR.  But more than that, Brussels honors more modern forms of art, too.  From the Comic Strip Museum to the Museum of Original Figurines, there’s something for everyone.

Oh and yes!  Brussel Sprouts did originate in Brussels.  🙂

*This trip was a business trip for my job as a Social Media Specialist with Global Resort Homes.  All tours and site seeing was done on my own.  

• Author
• Recent Posts

Trippin with Tara

Tara began her blog in 2012 and quickly became an Online Influencer in Travel and Entertainment. Trippin' with Tara is a lifestyle blog covering all things entertainment and travel, but don't be surprised by some great food and product reviews in the mix.
Read more

Latest posts by Trippin with Tara (see all)

• You Have to Remember – 9/11, 20 Years Later - September 11, 2021
• Creating the Perfect Look with a Maxi Dress - October 20, 2020
• Brand Better Giveaway - October 6, 2020