Brussels travel guide

Belgium’s heart served up on a gilded platter

Brussels was founded more than a thousand years ago, and the city is a testament to aging with refinement. Belgium was once Europe’s superpower, and that national pride is still reflected in its soaring town hall and royal palaces. But it has eased gracefully into its new, quieter position on the continent, much like a retired general who enjoys most sitting in the square, reminiscing about the glory days. An eye towards preservation and relative peace have ensured that much of Belgium’s glory still stands to be admired, and Brussels is its showcase. The city is centered around the phenomenal market square, surrounded on all sides by gilded palatial buildings that tug the eye upward and set the head awhirl. The market courtyard is always full of action and offers some of the city's best people-watching. There are also many fine museums in Brussels—the Science Museum, with its fascinating dinosaur exhibit, is particularly enthralling. The expansive royal parks are easily accessible, and it’s worth strolling past the Manneken Pis sculpture just to see what garment this whimsical native son is currently sporting. Brussels evokes the languid romance of a bygone era. Enjoy its fine cuisine and fruity lambic beers while immersing yourself in the old-world aura, and you’ll be enjoying Brussels like a local.