A centre for international politics, Brussels is home to both NATO and the European Union (EU). These international institutions have brought with them post modern architecture and a thriving social scene which slots in surprisingly well with its Art Nouveau and Medieval constructions.

Officially bilingual, the city is split between the French and Flemish (Dutch) languages, evident by the street signs and choice in schools.

With so many different international visitors you could easily spend your days (and nights) indulging in the cities thriving food culture but there is so much more to Brussels. Take your time exploring its rich art history and architecture styles; acquaint yourself with all its quirks and you’re sure to fall in love.

Brussels Information

Population: Approx. 1, 000 000
Time Zone: UTC +1
Languages: French and Flemish (Dutch)
Currency: Euro €
Currency Exchange: Purchase your euro cash and travellers cheques before you leave Australia

Brussels Climate

Brussels experiences a typical oceanic climate. Temperatures in summer reach 21°C during the day and fall to around 12°C overnight. Snowfall in winter is rare, with temperatures generally sitting around 6°C during the day and dropping to 1°C overnight. Winter is the wetter season, with monthly rainfall averages around 76mm.

Brussels Airport

Name: Brussels National Airport
Website: www.brusselsairport.be
Partner Airline: Etihad Airways
Car Rental: Mates rates on all car hire with our preferred partners

Around Brussels

A morning spent at Grand Place should be at the top of every visitors list. The central square of Brussels attracts thousands of tourists each year and is home to the famous Gothic style Hotel de Ville - the only building in the area to avoid destruction during the French bombardment of 1695 (despite being the target). Here you’ll find the tourist centre and a number of small shops and cafes on the ground floor, the perfect place to study a map of the city and plan your day ahead.

The Musee des Instruments de Musique is home to one of the world’s largest collections of musical instruments, including an entire 17th century orchestra. More than 1500 instruments are housed in the beautiful Art Nouveau building which alone, is worth seeing. The entrance fee includes a set of tour headphones which play the sound of each instrument as you approach, a one-of-a-kind tourist experience.

Brussels is home to a number of popular jazz clubs and refined bars. The Archiduc Bar at 6 rue Antoine-Dansaert attracts a hip crowd with its art deco interior, high ceilings and in the know bar staff. Touted as the coolest bar in Belgium, nights kick-off with after work drinks and conversation before things heat up with great cocktails and its famous jazz sessions. Like most European cities, Brussels also has a thriving dance culture well suited to the young and energetic.

Surrounding Area

Take advantage of Brussels’ proximity to the rest of Europe and book a day trip to Holland. Cross the border where tulip farms and windmills make for picture perfect scenery. Then spend the afternoon in Amsterdam shopping for pottery, clogs and cheese. There are plenty of local tour providers who are happy to pick you up from your hotel.

Sofitel Brussels Le Louise

5 Star property

Featuring an elegant decor and a warm hospitality, Sofitel Brussels Le Louise welcomes you for an unforgettable vacation. Ideally located in the heart of the city, the hotel has 160 rooms and 10 suites that are equipped with numerous standard amenities including Internet access. Sofitel Brussels Europe has a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 24-hour room service is available. Recreational amenities include a health club, a steam room, and a fitness facility.

Rocco Forte Amigo Hotel Brussels

5 Star property

The Rocco Forte Amigo Hotel Brussels is ideally located in the very heart of Brussels and is adjacent to the picturesque Grand Place, which is the focal point of the city for social events and festivals. The hotel offers a variety of bedrooms and suites, which are individual in style and equipped with all the modern comforts. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant that offers the best of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. There is also a fitness centre available onsite, equipped with the latest machines to give you the opportunity to workout and unwind.

Marriott Hotel Brussels

4 Star property

Steeped in a rich as well as a diverse culture, the Marriott Hotel Brussels offers luxurious accommodation in a historic building to make your stay an unforgettable experience. Located in the city of Brussels, all the 66 rooms are adequately furnished with an array of modern amenities. You can enjoy an exquisite dining experience at the on-site restaurant, which boasts high quality food that satisfy all type of tastes. A well equipped fitness centre is also on offer.

Aloft Brussels Schuman Hotel

3 Star property

Aloft Brussels Schuman Hotel is an ideal accommodation choice for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel is located at Place Jean Rey in the city of Brussels. Aloft Schuman Hotel boasts spacious, well lit and bright rooms. Alarm Clock, radio and refrigerator are available in each room. Several restaurants are available in the surroundings of this property that offer a wide variety of local, regional and international cuisines. For recreation, a gymnasium is available. At leisure, guests can visit the popular Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, which is at easy access from this property.

Dining

Due to the high concentration of international political folk, Brussels boasts a great selection of restaurants, cafes and bars serving some of the best cuisine in Europe. Comme Chez Soi which loosely translates to ‘as at home’ is the perfect example of Belgium gastronomy at it’s best. With a main dining room, private function rooms and tables by the kitchen it easily manages to maintain it homey charm and the 70, 000 plus cellar all but guarantees the perfect wine match to your meal. If you’re hoping to book a table on a Friday or Saturday night make sure to get in touch at least two months in advance. Located at 9 Place Rouppe.

The dramatic dining space featured at Belga Queen, hints at some serious old world glamour. Sky high marble columns lead up to a beautiful stained-glass ceiling and a downstairs vault houses plenty of Havana cigars and classic cocktails. Back upstairs a sophisticated white marble bar serves a selection of more than 500 beers. The menu focuses on hearty meat and fish dishes like roasted royal cod, loin of lamb and pan-fried veal chops - the oyster bar firmly cementing the restaurant as one of Brussels best seafood restaurants. Located at 32 Rue Fosse aux Loups.

For a sweet treat head to Brussels’ most famous patisserie Wittamer. Centrally located at the Grand Place, its deep pink walls, polished floors and sparkling chandelier continues to attract the crowds. As does its creamy Pralines, delicate macaroons and Belgium chocolates – resistance is futile.

Shopping

If you’re after a designer fix, look no further than Avenue Louise. All of Europe’s latest and greatest can be found housed in the specialty boutiques in this area – Gucci, Chanel and Yves Saint Lauren are as home here as they are in Italy or France.

Spend a weekend morning walking through the antiques market held in Sablon Square or visit the Vieux Marche. This popular flea market has been in operation since the 17th century and is a great place to search for that special something to take home.

Likewise Senses Art Nouveau Shop has a great range of gifts and souvenirs as well as silk scarves, jewellery and perfumes and convincing Art Nouveau reproductions. Located at 31 rue Lebeau.