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Ker & Downey Product Manager Elizabeth Frels outlines the best things to do in Brussels

 

Brussels, the urban heart of Europe, is a city where centuries-old history meets modern sophistication. From gilded architecture to avant-garde art and gourmet dining, the capital of Belgium offers endless opportunities for discovery. Ker & Downey designed this Brussels Belgium Travel Guide to inspire travelers seeking culture, elegance, and curated experiences.

So, we invite you to join private tours in Brussels Belgium to uncover the city’s most captivating highlights.

 

Where to Stay in Brussels

The capital of Europe has a wide range of hotels to suit all needs. While they range from apartment residences to glamping sites, these two five-star offerings satisfy those in search of luxury and refinement:

 

Hotel Amigo Brussels Belgium

Hotel Amigo

Warmth, vibrancy and culture converge at Hotel Amigo. Situated between the Grand-Place and Manneken Pis, Hotel Amigo represents the heart and soul of the city. A hub of local art and design, as well as home to Belgium’s best Italian restaurant. To Bar Magritte’s live jazz, late drinks and cozy corners, and to the unique Amigo welcome, spirit and charm.

Corinthia Brussels Belgium2

Corinthia Hotel Brussels

For a luxurious experience, few hotels rival the elegance of the new kid on the block, Corinthia Hotel Brussels. Perfectly located in the city center, this five-star property blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. Formerly the "Grande Dame" Grand Hotel Astoria, it makes the perfect base for a refined Brussels adventure.

"The Hotel Amigo in Brussels pulled out all the stops to ensure we had a pampered family stay in the city. They supplied us with several children's amenities such as a toddler-sized robe, bubble bath, and pack-n-play. In addition, we found ourselves at the doorstep of the city's beautiful, walkable cobblestone streets. All of us, including our two-year-old daughter, were in heaven."

-- Elizabeth Frels, Director of Product Management & Development

 

Iconic Landmarks

Of course, no Brussels Belgium Travel Guide is complete without mentioning the city’s most beloved sights. And they all come standard on every classic Ker & Downey walking tour of Brussels Belgium:

Brussels Belgium Aerial View (C)Vandewiele
  • Grand-Place: A UNESCO World Heritage treasure and the crown jewel of Brussels.
  • Manneken-Pis: Quirky yet iconic, this small statue is a must-see.
  • Royal Galleries: Elegant arcades lined with boutiques and cafés.
  • Atomium: A futuristic symbol of the 1958 World Expo and one of Brussels’ most photographed attractions.

Exclusive Tours & Cultural Treasures

Brussels is the second most cosmopolitan city in the world, home to no less than 184 nationalities. Its inhabitants speak nearly 108 languages. It is therefore no wonder that Brussels serves as a cultural hub year-round.

Not only is it the world capital of Art Nouveau, but it is also the epicenter of surrealism, the Mecca of comics, and a gastronomic paradise. Plus, it boasts more than 100 museums and nearly 20,000 cultural events.

Therefore, Brussels travelers will appreciate the many Brussels museums and cultural experiences and the unique perspective they provide. As such, here are a few of our favorite exclusive tours in Brussels Belgium:

Brussels Belgium Comic Strips ©Visit.Brussels Jean Paul Remy
credit: visit.brussels, Jean-Paul Remy
  • Magritte Museum: Step into the surreal world of René Magritte, one of Belgium’s most celebrated artists.
  • Tintin Shop & Comic Strip Trail: Explore more than 60 vibrant murals celebrating Belgium’s beloved comic heritage. Indeed, children of all ages will also love the Comic Book Museum.
  • Art Nouveau & Art Deco Tours: Admire architectural masterpieces by Victor Horta and Paul Hankar.
  • Royal Palace & BELvue Museum: Discover Belgian monarchy and history side by side.
  • Bozar – Centre for Fine Arts: A must-see for exhibitions, concerts, and cultural showcases.
  • Delvaux Factory: Visit the world’s oldest luxury leather goods house.
  • Electric Carriage Tour: Explore sustainably with a horse-free carriage ride.
  • Mont des Arts: Capture panoramic views at sunset, a perfect end to the day.

Food, Drink & Culinary Adventures

From chocolate to beer, and waffles to Michelin stars, Belgium showcases an array of culinary delights. Indeed, Brussels boasts 14 Michelin-starred restaurants. And while each is an experience in itself, some have a special setting that makes the experience even more unique.

For example, the CHALET DE LA FORÊT, nestled on the edge of Sonian Forest and boasting an exceptional terrace. COMME CHEZ SOI, which will soon celebrate its 100th anniversary, offers meals in the kitchen, in the magnificent Art Nouveau-inspired main room or at the table d’hôtes in the middle of the house’s cellar. And finally, there’s LA VILLA IN THE
SKY, which really is located on the roof of a skyscraper and offers a breathtaking view of the city. 

Consult Ker & Downey's suggested restaurant recommendations in Brussels. Then consider these additional food-focused experiences to complement your Michelin-starred reservations:

Brussels Belgium Beer Tasting
  • Chocolate Workshop: Craft your own sweet creations in a hands-on private chocolate class with an artisan chocolatier.
  • Street Food Tours: Sample Belgian fries, waffles, and other local favorites alongside a knowledgeable local.
  • Private Pub Crawl: With a private guide, travel to bars regularly voted among the best beer cafes. They will of course have a good selection of artisanal beers on tap but also some hidden ones. 
  • Roy-Cantillon: This family brewery, unchanged since 1900 when it was founded, makes Lambic, Gueuze, Faro and Kriek brews.
  • Belgian Beer World Experience: Taste iconic brews with panoramic city views.
  • Wittamer: Indulge in pastries at this iconic Brussels patisserie.
  • WOLF Brussels: Transport your taste buds around the world while staying in one place.
  • Delirium Café: Experience one of the world’s most extensive beer selections in a festive setting.

Seasonal Magic: Brussels Christmas Markets

Brussels Christmas Market ©Visit.Brussels Ericdanhier
credit: Visit Brussels, Eric Danhier

Winter in Brussels proves especially enchanting. The Winter Wonders Christmas Market, often ranked among the best in the world, fills the city with festive cheer.

In addition, families will love the whimsical Christmas Fairies at Le Roy d’Espagne. Meanwhile, the Tootbus Christmas Tour offers dazzling city views from an open-top bus.

See A Sample Journey: Amsterdam & Belgium Christmas Market Tour

"Christmas in Belgium is just as magical as you might expect. I will never forget tasting my first authentic Belgian waffle, as well as the mulled wine spiked with Amaretto. The country's iconic chocolate and festive atmosphere even further contributed to my holiday spirit."

-- Elizabeth Frels, Director of Product Management & Development

 

Put Ker & Downey's Brussels Belgium Travel Guide to Use

Whether your passion is art, gastronomy, history, or design, Ker & Downey can arrange tours in Brussels Belgium tailored to your interests. No matter your interest, each Ker & Downey experience immerses you in the soul of Brussels.

Indeed, this Brussels Belgium Travel Guide highlights just a glimpse of what awaits in the Belgian capital. So let Ker & Downey craft your journey with exclusive access and thoughtful luxury touches. 

 

Contact a Ker & Downey Travel Designer today to start planning your next escape to Brussels and beyond. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on InstagramFacebook, and X.

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