Brussels is another of those European cities that well deserve a getaway. It is well known for the quality of its chocolates and beer, but the capital of Belgium is much more, a city that has historical and modern areas and many places to visit.
If you want to know what to see and do in the city of Brussels, we have a few suggestions for you. From seeing the friendly Manneken Pis to the elegant Royal Palace. A large number of suggestions to enjoy a capital that offers a lot to tourists who want to know it.
Manneken Pis
Although it may seem strange, this figure of a boy peeing It is one of the most beloved symbols of the city of Brussels. It dates from the XNUMXth century, although the one we see today is a copy of the original, which was stolen by a thief. There are many and varied legends surrounding the creation of this small statue, such as that it was created in honor of a child who put out a possible fire in this original way. Be that as it may, today it is a statue that must be visited, because it is already part of the history of the city.
If we like fonts, we may also want to see the Jeanneke pis, a statue of a girl that is the female replica. It is from the XNUMXth century, and is located in the opposite direction at the same distance from the Grand Place. It does not arouse so much interest but for many it can be something curious.
Grand Place
The Grand Place or Grote Mark is the Great Square of the city of Brussels. The heart of the historic area, where you can see beautiful old buildings and where you can find the city hall. This square is a whole XNUMXth century architectural complex and one of the most beautiful squares in all of Europe. Almost all of them had to be rebuilt centuries ago, except the town hall. The Hotel de Ville is the oldest building in the square and is so representative that guided tours are made. We also find Le Pigeon, Victor Hugo's home during his exile. If we want to improve our luck, to the left of the town hall is the statue of Everad't Serclaes, which you have to touch the arm because it brings good luck.
The Atomium
If we think of Brussels, the Atomium, created for the Universal exposition and that despite being highly criticized at the time has become a symbol of the city. This architecture represents an atom increased in size, and the interesting thing is that within each sphere there are temporary exhibitions and the tubes that join them have escalators to go from one to another. In the upper area there is a restaurant to take a break, although we must go patiently because being a symbol of the city, queues tend to form to be able to see the interior.
Brussels cathedral
The Cathedral of Brussels or San Miguel and Santa Gúdula It is a beautiful Gothic style building started in the XNUMXth century. The interior of the cathedral is very beautiful but more sober than it should because it has endured several looting. Its beautiful stained glass windows or the baroque pulpit carved in wood stand out. The great organ of the cathedral is also striking. Guided tours can be done and it is one of the essential visits in the city.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is an amazing building located near the Brussels Park. A XNUMXth century building which today is the seat of the Belgian monarchy. In it are some of the ministries and royal offices. It is a place where official events of great importance are held, which is why they have spacious and elegant event rooms. Nowadays the visit to the palace can be done from July to September, when there is not so much activity inside, so if we want to see its interior to get an idea of the current palace life, it is better to choose a trip in these months .
Galleries Saint Hubert
These are the first commercial galleries that were created in Europe. They are located near the Grand Place and it is a beautiful gallery that still retains that elegant and old charm. In it you can see all kinds of shops and well-kept shop windows, with chocolate shops, luxury shops or jewelers. There are also restaurants, cafes and a cinema. Without a doubt, it is an ideal place to spend the hours if the day is not good outside, since it is covered with a glass dome that protects and brings clarity. Today only three covered galleries are preserved in the city, of which the most important is the Saint Hubert Gallery.