Belgium is a country that is often taken for granted. Of course, many visitors to Europe will travel through it en route from the United Kingdom to Europe, but few actually take the time to stop and explore. It is, however, a country well worth exploring and Brussels, the capital city, can prove the best place to get a taste of what the country has to offer.
Brussels can prove to be an ideal destination as a weekend city break, a stopover on a longer journey around Europe or a half-term destination. What's more, it's a great city to explore on foot, which really allows you to take in the many wonderful sights.
The best place to start your journey in Brussels is the Grand Place or de Grote Markt. Often hailed as one of the most beautiful and well preserved market squares in the whole of Europe, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the city. Before you set out, enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the terrace restaurants and take your time to soak up the amazing architecture.
Only a short walk from the Grand Place is a must-see sight in Brussels - the famous Manneken Pis fountain. This historic fountain has an unusual water feature, in the form of a statue of a toddler urinating. There are many stories about how the statue originally came to be there, and all are treated with a good sense of humour and fun by both locals and tourists alike. On some festive occasions you can even get a beer from the free-flowing toddler, as the fountain is connected to a beer keg!
The Royal Palace of Brussels is also well worth a visit - even just to look at the façade. The inside of the palace, where the Royal family deal with matters of state, is spectacular; however, it is important to understand that it is only open to tourists in July. Open all year round, the restored Gothic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudule is an impressive sight, containing some fantastic stained-glass windows.
For a more comical approach to the city, follow the Comic Strip Route. Brussels is the self-proclaimed world capital of comics and as such, has commemorated the title by commissioning key comic book artists to decorate wall murals - erecting them across the city. As an added bonus, by following the route you will come across many delightful areas of Brussels that are off the tourist trail.
And whilst Brussels is lovely to visit almost any time of the year, the summer months can often prove the most popular amongst tourists. But whether it is a short or long break intended, finding hotels in Brussels should not be too difficult; and considering there is so much to see and do in the city, you may well find that having the option of extending your stay here is essential.
Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
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