Brussels is not only the city of Tintin, Euro MPs and NATO, it is also one of the most interesting and fun cities of this part of Europe. That's why Vueling flies to Brussels.
Here are some suggestions to get the most out of your trip.
Hotels in Brussels
When you look for a place to stay in Brussels, keep in mind that the city is divided into two sections: the lower part of the city and the upper part. The upper part of the city is very convenient for institutions of the EU and for Head Offices of many companies, and also to see large museums. On the East, the lower part of the city is very touristy with cobblestone streets and restaurants from the North of Africa.
 |
Hotel Melia Avenue Louise Boutique 5*
Ideally located off the Avenue Louise with its fashionable boutiques and with easy access to the "Grand Place" via train or bus, this hotel is also only a 10 minute drive from the Gare Midi and a 5 minute drive from Central Station. |
 |
Hotel Royal Windsor 5*
This is an excellent hotel, offering both good quality and a very stylish atmosphere. It is also perfectly located only minutes away from the 'Grand Place' and the central station.
|
Hotel Noga
The best way to describe the atmosphere at Noga is "jazzy." The entire hotel is filled with objects reminiscent of the twenties, from lamps to black and white pictures. Noga is located in the popular Béguinage area near the Saint Catherine market. It is very chic and cosy.
Rue du Béguinage 38
+32 02-218-6763
www.nogahotel.com
Les Bluets
The family that runs this hotel situated in a typical Belgian-style house has filled it with antique and rare objects. Every room is different: styles range from elegance of the old world to kitsch of the twentieth century.
Rue Berckmans 124
+32 02 534 3983
Montgomery HotelThe Montgomery is a hotel that can now be defined as a luxury hotel even though its prices aren't exorbitant. The rooms remind one of the typical English cottage.
Avenue De Tervueren 134
+32 02 741 85 11
http://www.montgomery.be
Back
Airport de Brussels
Zaventem, Brussels international airport, is approx. 8 ½ miles (14 km) Northeast of the city. There are trains and buses that constantly leave for the main stations in Brussels (Gare Central, Gare du Nord and Gare du Midi). The airport's duty-free is not very good and the prices, even without taxes, are higher than in the city, except maybe for alcohol and tobacco products. A taxi from downtown Brussels takes approximately 15 minutes, barring any traffic jams.
Brussels's airport
| | Bus | Train | Taxi | Parking |
|---|
| Price | 8 € | 2.6 € | Aprox. 29.75 € | 1 hour: 2.4 €
1 day: 15 € |
|---|
Back
Restaurants in Brussels
Brussels does not offer the gastronomic experiences of Paris or London, but you can find a number of alternatives.
Keep in mind that although the majority of the restaurants include the tip in the bill, waiters still expect a little more.
Without a doubt, you can't go to Brussels without trying the national dish, moules et pómmes frites; a delicious mussel and french fry casserole.
Restaurant Francois
A charming restaurant that has been operating since 1922. Very fresh mussels, since it has its own fish shop on the side.
2 Quai aux Briques (00 32 2 511 6089).
Au Vieux Bruxelles
One of the best places to eat Mussels and French fries. This restaurant was founded in 1882 and is located in the heart of Ixelles.
35 rue St Boniface (00 32 2 503 3111)
Kasbah
If you want to breathe in the scent of mussels, try one of the best Moroccan restaurants in Europe. With a very romantic atmosphere, thanks to the lighting provided by the chandeliers, let yourself be impressed by the lamb shish kebabs accompanied by couscous of the oasis.
Rue Antoine Dansaert 20
+ 32 02 502 40 26
Bonsoir Clara
Always full, Bonsoir Clara has become a classic of Brussels. Its modern design is pleasant and full of quality, combining brick walls with window panes and colourful tapestries. Its international cuisine, even though it has some French touches, should leave a good taste in your mouth. Don't leave without trying the truffles or the salmon.
Rue Antoine Dansaert 22-26
+32 02 502 09 90
www.bonsoirclara.be
Biodrome
The most fashionable place to eat organic/vegetarian dishes in all Belgium. Try the salad buffet or the special menu that includes a relaxation session.
Rue Marche Aux Charbons 76-78 (Rue Lombard)
+32 02 502 12 10
Le Pain et le VinThe decoration and minimalist cuisine of this restaurant is the only thing that gives it its stoic name. Accompanied by one of the many recommendable wines, allow yourself to be seduced by the risotto with asparagus or the tuna. If you can, upgrade this experience by sitting in the garden when the weather is nice. What more is there to say?
Chaussée d'Alsemberg 812ª
+32 02 332 3774
Back
Business hours in Brussels
Nearly all of the stores are open from 10 am to 1:30 pm and from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The large malls remain open all day.
Back
Don't miss... in Brussels
Grand place
The plaza contrasts the Gothic style of the Municipality of Brussels with the Baroque buildings surrounding the same. La Grand' Place is a flower market, bird market and also works a scene for recitals.
Grand sablon
Restaurants, bars, cafés, antique stores and arcades surround this plaza which is also elegant. On the weekends there is a large antiques market.
Manneken pis
This cute bronze statue of a boy urinating in a fountain is known as the sculpture of the Ancient Inhabitants of Brussels. This statue is a copy of the original version that was stolen by French soldiers in the 18th Century.
Museum of Modern Art
According to its content, the building of the museum has an advanced system and the works are distributed in seven floors, where you can see Belgian and French art collections for most of the last hundred years. The most prominent ones are the works of Magritte and Delvaux.
Horta Museum
Victor Horta is known as the creator of art nouveau and the museum was built in his house. He worked there since 1919 between the furniture and decorations that can now be appreciated while visiting.
Saint Michael de Gudulé Cathedral
Is the largest church of the city and was inaugurated in the 13th Century after the gothic style that prevailed during that time. Its stained-glass windows are the major attraction, along with its twin towers.
Quartier de Láilôt Sacré
This is the area with the most vitality of Brussels, where jewelry and clock dealers offer a mixed bag of merchandise with the pickpockets that take advantage of the crowds of people to sneak away with valuable items. It is also a good place to visit bars and restaurants.
Back
Back