As the capital of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels is cosmopolitan, creative, and full of surprises, a destination that ticks all the boxes for Australian travellers looking for a mix of culture, character and fun.
Iconic Sights You’ll Love
Few cities combine charm and diversity like Brussels. The UNESCO-listed Grand-Place is a masterpiece of architecture, while the playful Manneken Pis adds a touch of humour to the city’s historic streets. The elegant Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert invite visitors to shop, stroll, and savour, while the futuristic Atomium offers panoramic views and a fascinating glimpse into the legacy of Expo 58.
Grand-Place – Grote Markt. © visit.brussels – Jean-Michel Byl – 2022
For a deeper dive into the city’s history, a visit to Brussels City Hall is a must, one of Europe’s finest Gothic buildings. And for those who want to explore the city efficiently, the Tootbus hop-on hop-off fleet is fully electric, providing a sustainable, comfortable way to see the city’s highlights, while the horse-free e-carriage offers a modern, eco and animal friendly twist on classic sightseeing.
Atomium. © www.atomium.be – SABAM – Alexandre LAURENT (AERIAL) – 2010
A Taste of Brussels – From Beer to Fine Dining
Brussels is a true gastronomic capital. From its world-famous waffles and fries to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city offers flavours for every traveller. The brand-new Belgian Beer World Experience, housed inside the beautifully restored Brussels Stock Exchange, is a must for beer lovers, while the quirky Friet Museum celebrates Belgium’s most beloved snack. Add to that world-class chocolatiers and vibrant markets, and Brussels becomes a city to taste and savour.
Culture, Creativity and Design
Art and creativity are at the heart of Brussels. Follow Tintin’s footsteps through comic strip murals, or dive into the dreamlike world of Magritte. Architectural gems such as Maison Hannon, Winssinger House and Villa Empain showcase the city’s Art Nouveau and Art Deco heritage, while Kanal – Centre Pompidou Brussels transforms a former Citroën garage into one of Europe’s most exciting contemporary art hubs.
Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée, Belgisch Stripcentrum. © visit.brussels – Jean-Paul Remy – 2023
Heritage is equally captivating, with museums like the Art & History Museum and Train World, celebrating Belgium’s rich cultural and technological legacy. Brussels seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering experiences for every interest.
Major Events Throughout the Year
Brussels’ event calendar ensures there’s always something happening. Art lovers can explore BRAFA Brussels Art Fair in January or Art Brussels in April. February brings the dazzling Bright Festival, while March is alive with the Banad Festival. Spring also features the Royal Greenhouses in Laeken (April) and Fête de l’Iris, celebrating the city’s heritage.
May is a highlight with Brussels Pride, the Queen Elisabeth Competition, and the 20 km of Brussels race.
Summer offers traditional spectacles like Ommegang in July and the spectacular Flower Carpet in August.
September is perfect for comic enthusiasts at the BD Comic Strip Festival or beer lovers at the Belgian Beer Weekend.
Later in the year, runners can take part in the Brussels Airport Marathon in November, and the festive season comes alive with Winter Wonders in December.
This lively calendar makes Brussels an attractive destination year-round, offering clients unforgettable experiences no matter when they visit.
Bright Brussels Festival 2022. SUNFLOWERS FOR VINCENT VAN GOGH – OCUBO. © visit.brussels – Eric Danhier – 2022
Style, Nightlife and Inclusivity
Brussels is a city that loves to express itself. From the chic boutiques of Avenue Louise to the designer shops of Dansaert, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
When the sun sets, the city comes alive with bars, live music, and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, making Brussels one of Europe’s most inclusive and welcoming capitals.
Belgium legalized same-sex marriage in 2003, making it the second country in the world to do so after the Netherlands.
Whether visitors are exploring its streets, indulging in gastronomy, admiring art, or joining in a festival, Brussels leaves a lasting impression — a small city with a big heart and even bigger personality.
Explore Brussels with Ease
Visitors can make the most of the city with tourist passes designed to simplify sightseeing:
- The Brussels Card provides unlimited access to over 40 museums, discounts on attractions, tours, and restaurants.
- The Art Nouveau Pass highlights the city’s stunning architectural heritage with visits to landmark houses and guided walking tours.
- The Volume Pass offers special cultural experiences, including music, exhibitions, and unique events across Brussels.
These passes make Brussels easy to explore for first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike.
Curious to know more about Brussels?
For trade support, training, or partnerships to help sell Brussels and Belgium, get in touch with your local contact:
Tom Albrand – International Business Developer – Visit Brussels
📧 E-mail: travel.trade@visit.brussels // t.albrand@visit.brussels
🌐 Website: https://linktr.ee/visitbrussels.traveltrade
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomalbrand/
Brussels is now more accessible than ever from Australia, with enhanced airline connectivity via Singapore Airlines (SQ), Cathay Pacific (CX), Thai Airways (TG), ANA Airlines (NH), Hainan Airlines (HU), Emirates (EK), Etihad (EY), Qatar Airways (QR), and Turkish Airlines (TK) and more. Check your GDS and booking systems.
Additionally, all visa-exempt travellers to Europe require a ETIAS travel authorization to enter 30 European countries, including Belgium, simplifying entry while maintaining security.
