Brussels City Breaks 2012

The Duke's House in the Grand-Place Brussels | Image by thearg

Brussels can get a really raw deal when it comes to reputations. It’s often perceived as a dull place full of Euro-bureaucrats and stuffy business men. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Yes, there are many European officials walking the streets and the city itself has claimed to be the unofficial capital of Europe, but there is a real vitality and dare I say ‘joie de vivre’ to the Belgian capital that can be sampled simply by walking the streets of this fine town and dropping in on one of the many wonderful pavement cafes that permeate throughout the city.

It is a really fantastic place for a short city break and if you are thinking of somewhere new in 2012, then Brussels could be the place for you.

	Tenement Style Buildng in Brussels

The City Centre and Grand-Place

Brussels old town centre is a delightful place to stroll on a cool summer’s evening. The Grand-Place itself is absolutely outstanding with the guild houses and Town Hall being particular stand outs. It has had many plaudits over the years from the likes of Victor Hugo, Baudelaire and many more.

It can be truly thronging with people at high season and is Brussels main tourist attraction. There is always something going on from open air concerts to buskers to processions. It’s also one of the best places in the world to try some real Belgian beer which is invariably strong and superb.

Shopping in Brussels

Shopping in Brussels is a real delight for shopping enthusiasts and browsers alike. Belgian chocolate shops are a special delight and after sampling some of the truly superb chocs on offer, you will find it hard going back to your Kit Kat or Flake when back at home.

There are also some fantastic open air markets to be enjoyed. Matonge is Brussels African enclave and all manner of delights are to be found here. Some may only be for the adventurous when it comes to snacks though!

Overall, Brussels and it’s citizens enjoy a really superb quality of life. Brussels was European Capital of Culture in the year 2000 and it’s easy to see why.

There are numerous art galleries to enjoy as well with The Musée d'Art Ancien being a standout. Here you can enjoy viewing some of the great Flemish master pieces.

The Victor Horta Museum has a standard entrance fee of 7 euros and is also worth a look. Victor Horta was an architect and major exponent of Art Nouveau and this house and museum are a stunning testament to the man and his life.

This is the house that he built for himself and only 45 people are allowed in at a time so be prepared to queue.

Weather in Brussels

Brussels is located close to the North Sea and is famous for being damp so it’s always advisable to carry an umbrella even during summer. Summers are never too hot however winters can be very cold and the temperature drops quite rapidly after October.