The center of Brussels lies around the Grand'Place, which is undoubtedly one of the most interesting squares in the world. Jean Cocteau even described it as "the most brilliant theater in the world". Victor Hugo went one step further: "the most beautiful square in the world".
We agree that this is a bit of an exaggeration, but don't worry about it... The center of Brussels is very compact and just right for wandering around and exploring. Brussels is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Grand'Place is, for example, a suitable place to start our walk. The city tourist office is nearby. The free city map is an interesting tool, but it's also fun to follow your nose and see what opportunities come your way. Admittedly, the best places are discovered when we find ourselves in them by chance. It's almost impossible to get lost. Special tip: The lower town is completely flat. If the street suddenly begins to climb, then it is very likely that you are headed to the upper part of the city. Don't worry, the upper part of the city is also worth the effort. If you feel like you are too far, take the subway, tram or bus. There is always the capital of Europe. I am in Brussels for business only for one year. Nevertheless, I am not a stranger to the city, as I am fascinated by Flemish painters and have visited Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp privately many times." Brussels offers a lot: a great variety of museums, Art Nouveau gems, palaces, trendy shopping malls, noisy flea markets traditional chocolate shops and many pleasant areas. In short: you have to be very picky not to find something to your taste in Brussels.
BRUSSELS AT NIGHT...
Brussels is a dream for night owls and other "party people". Good bars are scattered throughout the city center. That's why it's worth getting to the city early. Clubs come and go, what was popular last year may be completely gone today. Lest you say we didn't warn you! Current favorites are: Le Fuse (Rue Blaes 208), still the temple of techno in Brussels; L'Acrobate (Rue Borgval 14-16), a funky disco with groovy music; Le Bal (Boulevard de la Triomphe 47), an elegant club for Brussels' beau monde, and Mirano Continental (Chaussée de Louvain 38), a classic that has been setting trends for years. The areas around Place St-Géry and the Bourse are the main points not to be missed during the weekend.
SHOPPING TIP
Rue Neuve – a shopping street in Brussels. Beware: trendsetters will be better off elsewhere, as Rue Neuve consists of an endless chain of popular shops. Rue Antoine Dansaert (and the area around it): Probably the trendiest area right now. Over the years, this part of the city (just opposite the Bourse) has grown into a place for fashionistas, avant-garde designers, designer and fashion shops and inventive restaurants.
SLOVENIAN AMBASSADOR ABOUT BRUSSELS
Slovenian ambassador Borut Trekman also fell in love with Brussels: "I think Brussels is one of the most attractive capitals in Europe. The Grand'Place in particular is my favorite place, every part of the square matches St. Mark's Square in Venice or the Campo in Siena. I really appreciate the peace and quiet of the Bois de la Cambre. Unfortunately, I am very busy, but whenever I have time, I take a walk in the Bois de la Cambre. I also enjoy wandering around the city center, admiring the architectural treasures, because Brussels is sometimes one big open museum. Brussels is essentially a country town, but with the charms of a bustling capital. The standard of living of the people is very high. This is not surprising, as it is also the capital of Europe. I am in Brussels for business only for one year. Nevertheless, I am no stranger to the city, as I am fascinated by Flemish painters and have visited Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp privately many times.'
HOW TO BRUSSELS?
We recommend traveling by plane, where you have two options: the simplest and most comfortable way to Brussels is by plane from Brnik with Adria Airways (www.adria-airways.com). Another option – cheaper but less comfortable – is from Treviso, Venice, with Ryan Air (www.ryanair.com). The decision is yours!
