Flights from Japan to Brussels (BRU)

Discover Brussels

Discover Brussels

Why visit Brussels?

Brussels blends grand boulevards, historic squares, and a relaxed café culture at the crossroads of Europe. You find striking architecture, renowned museums, and a creative city that feels both international and intimate.

What to expect

You can wander from medieval lanes around the Grand Place to sleek European Quarter buildings in minutes. Trams and metro lines make it simple to explore neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character and pace.

Plan your trip

Brussels is a practical base for exploring Belgium and nearby capitals by train. Plan time for both the city and easy day trips to places like Bruges, Ghent, or Antwerp for a rounded European journey.

Top sights in Brussels

Grand Place

Admire ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall on this UNESCO-listed square, beautifully lit at night and often hosting seasonal events.

Atomium

Ride up this iconic steel structure for panoramic city views and exhibitions inside its futuristic spheres.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

Explore masterpieces from Old Masters to modern art in a complex of impressive galleries near the royal quarter.

Magritte Museum

Discover the surreal world of René Magritte through paintings, drawings, and personal objects in a dedicated museum.

Mont des Arts

Stroll through terraced gardens linking the upper and lower town, with one of the best viewpoints over Brussels rooftops.

European Quarter

Walk past key European Union buildings, green parks, and modern public spaces that show Brussels role as a political hub.

Sablon district

Browse antique shops, galleries, and chocolatiers in elegant streets framed by historic churches and cosy squares.

Experience Brussels everyday rhythm

Getting around

Use the combined metro, tram, and bus network for quick journeys across Brussels, then switch to walking in the compact centre to soak up its details. Taxis and shared bikes are handy for the last stretch back to your hotel at night.

Local life & culture

You feel local life in busy weekly markets, relaxed terraces, and cultural festivals that bring music and art to the streets. Each neighbourhood, from Saint-Gilles to Ixelles, offers its own mix of galleries, bars, and community spaces.

Where to unwind

Escape to Parc de Bruxelles, Parc du Cinquantenaire, or the ponds of Ixelles for a gentle walk or picnic, especially on long summer evenings. In cooler months, quiet museums and intimate cafés offer a calm retreat from the weather.

A taste of Brussels

Street food & local specialties

Sample Belgian fries from dedicated friteries, try Brussels waffles from street stands, and explore local dishes in areas like the city centre and Saint-Catherine, known for casual eateries.

Casual & modern dining hubs

You find global flavours and relaxed brasseries around Dansaert, Ixelles, and in major shopping streets, often with menus designed for sharing. Smaller portions and tasting plates let you try several dishes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining

Seek out restaurants overlooking the Grand Place, Mont des Arts, or city rooftops for memorable views with your meal. Many venues pair refined Belgian cooking with carefully curated drinks lists for a special night out.

Retail therapy in Brussels

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Visit central shopping centres and galleries for international fashion, local designers, and lifestyle stores, often combined with cafés and cinemas for a full day out.

Markets & local crafts

Browse antiques at the Marolles flea market, discover design boutiques in Dansaert, and look for crafts in Sablon streets to find unique pieces and gifts.

Evening retail scene

In the evening, illuminated arcades and main shopping streets stay lively with late-opening stores and nearby bars. Metro and tram lines make it easy to reach these areas and return to your accommodation after dark.

Best time to visit Brussels

Spring (April to June) is a shoulder season with mild weather around 10–18°C (50–64°F), blooming parks, and fewer crowds than mid-summer. Summer (July to August) is the peak season, with temperatures typically 18–24°C (64–75°F) and many outdoor events. Autumn and winter (November to March) are the low season, usually 2–8°C (36–46°F), with shorter days but cosy indoor attractions and seasonal markets.

Frequently Asked Questions