Located in western Europe and deemed the unofficial capital of the European Union, Brussels is a bustling city similar to Paris. Brussels is rich in history, culture, architecture, and simultaneously urbanized and modern. It is a city belonging to no state or province and also the Capital City for Belgium. In this sense, it is similar to Washington, D.C. For those who are unaware, there are three regions in Belgium. The northern half is the Flanders region and Flemish-speaking. The Southern part is the Wallonia region or the French-speaking region. Both the Flanders and Wallonia regions have five provinces each, and the third Region of Brussels has none.
As with any big city, There are innumerable things to do in Brussels. There are various options for tours, workshops, unlimited gastronomic options, and museums. Most people associate Belgium with Chocolate, Beer, Waffles, and Fries. Yes! French Fries are not French. They are a Belgian creation. The following is a list of six things you can do to enjoy your visit while watching your budget.
1. Fries: Have some Belgian Fries. There are many Frites trucks in Brussels. Frites is the French word for fried. I think French Fries are a very versatile addition as a side to any meal and great on its own. The act of cutting the potatoes into strips is referred to as “frenching” or “to french the potatoe” and began in Belgium. It is how the name developed into French Fries. Most Americans prefer Ketchup on their fries but in Europe fries are accompanied with Mayo. Everywhere you go, you now have so many variations of fries. Thanks to Belgium.Most
2. Waffle workshop: On Groupon, you can find various discounted activities. My wife opted for a Waffle workshop that was fun and very informative. Very much like Fries, Beer, and Chocolate, there is a deep-rooted Pride between Belgians and their waffles. Worldwide there are various versions of the waffle. Nonetheless, there are two officially recognized types of waffles in Belgium. There is the “Liege” waffle that is rounded around the edges and uses a thicker batter. The “Brussels” waffle is more rectangular, lighter, and fluffier and is the more typical type people recognize. Either way, waffles are delicious.
3. Atomium & design museum– Built-in 1958 for the world exposition, the Atomium was constructed to resemble Iron atoms. The Atomium is a great way to get a spectacular view of the Brussels skyline. It is complete with a restaurant on the topmost sphere. A phenomenal architectural endeavor also serves as a museum and includes entry to the Design museum with the Price of Admission.
4. Café-Tasse: For the love of all things Belgian, this café offers a plethora of chocolaty delights. It is a charming place to have rich and creamy Belgian hot chocolaty drinks with friends. It is also a great place to purchase chocolate goodies as gifts for relatives and friends. One of the locals recommended this place, and it did not disappoint.
5. Grand Place- Market Square: Entering the market square, you will quickly notice the wonderfully crafted and historic architecture. The Town Hall and “Maison Du Roi” are two of several places located in the Square as it is a world heritage site. The surrounding area is full of restaurants, specialty shops, and many other gastronomic experiences.
6. Cathédrale des Sts Michel et Gudule: This medieval Gothic-style cathedral is a great place to visit and get a sense of the rich history of Bruselles. The interior throws you back in time in the same manner as the Notre Dame and Sacre-Coeur of Paris can. Every time I walk into one of these churches, the song “Princes Of The Universe” starts playing in my head. It is free of charge and a great place to visit.
Brussels is a big city for sure, and one day in town is not enough time to explore it all. However, there is much you can do in a day to explore the city and enjoy the visit. As long as there is always tomorrow, I will be looking forward to another visit.
