The Basics
City Name: Brussels
Where is it located?: Brussels is located near the center of Belgium.
Why do people go there?: Because they meant to go to Bruges and got lost. Brussels is generally not a destination in and of itself: it’s more of a stopover for those from London or nearby Amsterdam and Paris. However, if you do have a few days there, the central square is not to be missed, nor is the jovial Mannekin Pis.
How do travelers get there?: Trains from Amsterdam and Paris bring the most backpackers, but the Chunnel from London is also n option.
Currency: Euro
City Code: 2
Population: 1 million
Languages: Dutch, French and German are all official languages, although German is spoken by only a small amount, and a decent amount Speak English.
Travel Information
Neighborhoods: Les Marolles, The Sablon, Mont des Arts area, Matonge, Saint-Gilles, Avenue Louise, Ixelles,
Attractions: Chocolate, NATO, Central Square
Accommodations: Brussels Hostels, Brussels Hotels
Tourist Office: Brussels Tourist and Information Office (TIB), Town Hall, Grand-Place, B-1000 Brussels ,Telephone: +32.2.513.89.40 ,Fax: +32.2.513.83.20, Email: tourism.brussels@tib.be, Web site: http://www.tib.be/
Off-the-beaten-path: De Marollen, Serre Royales, Musée Charlier, Atomium,
Health Issues: None
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Belgium is the warmest during the summer months, however, rain and overcast skies are common year-round.
Common Phrases: Yes = Ja, No = Geen, Please = Alstublieft, Thank you = Dank u, Do you speak English? = Spreekt u het Engels?
City Specific Events: Waiters’ Race every September, Brussels For Lovers Bike Ride every February, Midis-Minimes Festival every July to August, Scarecrow Festival every October
How to get around?: These boots and made for walking, and that’s just what they’ll do
Good to know: The rain can be dreary, but the city is used to it.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The main airport for travelers taking flights to Brussels is the Brussels International Airport
Need more information?: Check out the Brussels travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
