Brussels Travel Tips and Insider's Guides

This Flemish city, Belgium’s capital, has been known since the Middle Ages for its manufacture of carpets, tapestries, and fine lace. The Porte de Hal (Hal Gate) is the last remaining section of the town’s second wall, built in the 1300s, and now houses a museum. A conservative country with Roman Catholic roots, Belgium is a small country about the size of the state of Maryland and is surrounded by France, Luxembourg, Germany, and Netherlands. The north coast faces the English Channel and the south coast of Britain.

You’ll find both Flemish and French spoken in Brussels with street signs in both languages. Many Belgians also speak English. A beer-lovers paradise, a favorite specialty is the brewing of beer and you’ll find at least 400 different brews to sample in friendly pubs, restaurants, and sidewalk cafes throughout the city. You’ll also find food stalls, open air markets and shops and the locals’ favorite snack, packets of freshly cooked French fries. Another favorite snack is broodjes, baguettes crammed with delicious meats, fish, cheeses, and other tasty fillings.

Find Historic Brussels’ best-preserved medieval townscape at the Grand’ Place (Grote Market) where you can people-watch at a number of sidewalk cafes. Also nearby, visit the headquarters of the Brewer’s Guild, the Knights of the Mash Staff, and the Brewery Museum. The rue des Bouchers area with its cobbled streets and Mediterranean style restaurants is also located nearby. Browse glass-roofed shopping malls in the 19^th century Galeries St. Hubert along with another lively shopping area, nearby rue Neuve. No doubt you’ll want to spend several days in this charming city.