Brussels is the political capital of Europe but behind the politics of the European Union’s centre is a vibrant city that welcomes millions of tourists every year. Holidays to Brussels are simple with the Euro Star. You can simply catch the train at St Pancras International in London and arrives into Brussels Midi less than 2 hours later.
Today Brussels is still a testament to its history, as many of the medieval streets, lively squares and beautiful buildings have remained intact. Brussels provides a fascinating meeting point between the last millennium and modern day Europe.
History and culture
There is plenty to see and experience when you arrive in Brussels. Why not visit the European Parliament building and the newly opened Parlamentarium visitors centre. It boasts the most comprehensive interactive view of Europe via a vast 3D lighting installation representing a shifting map of Europe and a 360° surround-screen digital projection of the hemicycle (parliamentary chamber). There is also an interactive virtual trip through Europe to discover each Member State and a video wall with messages from Members of the European Parliament.
If politics and the European Union are not for you, there is the Atomium architectural museum. This is Brussels’ most popular attraction due to its unique design based on the model of an elementary iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times. There is also the mini map of Europe nearby as well where you can see the great monuments of European cities recreated in spectacular detail.
Food and drink
Brussels is also famous for its food, with hundreds of restaurants and cafés. Belgium is famous for chocolate and there are many chocolate factories that you can take a tour of should you want to indulge your sweet tooth. There are even some that include a workshop where visitors can make their own chocolate.
Belgium is also known for brewing beer and there are many breweries that also offer tours and tastings. There are also complete beer tours around the city if you like spending the day drinking different beers in all quarters of the historic city.
City breaks in Brussels are proving popular with British tourists because they can be done inexpensively and without the need to fly to the destination. Many people do not like to fly, but still want to have the experience of going abroad and Belgium is located perfectly to do just that.
