Things to Do in Brussels

Brussels sits at the heart of Europe in more ways than one - it's the de facto capital of the European Union, but more importantly for travelers, it's where you'll find some of the continent's best beer, chocolate, and surprisingly excellent food scene. The city has this interesting duality where grand medieval squares bump up against modern EU buildings, and locals switch effortlessly between French and Dutch (sometimes mid-sentence). You might expect Brussels to feel overly bureaucratic given all the EU institutions, but the reality is quite different - it's actually got this laid-back, slightly bohemian vibe, especially in neighborhoods like Ixelles and Saint-Gilles. The compact city center means you can easily walk between the major sights, though you'll likely find yourself ducking into cafés and chocolate shops more often than you planned.

Brussels food scene has evolved far beyond the stereotypical mussels and fries, though you should definitely try both while you're here. The city has embraced international influences while maintaining strong Belgian traditions - you'll find excellent North African restaurants in Matongé, innovative fine dining throughout the center, and traditional brasseries serving carbonnade flamande and waterzooi. The café culture is strong, with many places serving food throughout the day rather than strict meal times. For the best fries, locals swear by small friteries rather than tourist-oriented restaurants, and don't miss trying different mustards and sauces beyond the standard mayo. The Sunday morning markets, particularly at Place du Châtelain, offer excellent local produce and prepared foods.

Brussels weather is famously unpredictable, but late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the most pleasant conditions for walking around the city. Summer brings the most festivals and outdoor events, though it can get crowded and hotel prices peak in July and August. Winter has its charms - Christmas markets, cozy café culture, and fewer tourists - but expect frequent rain and shorter days. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October might actually be ideal, offering mild weather, reasonable hotel rates, and a good balance of open attractions without summer crowds. That said, Brussels is very much a year-round destination since so much happens indoors, from museums to chocolate shops to the legendary café scene.