Brussels

Brussels is not only the Capital of Belgium; it is also the largest urban area.  The first mention of Brussels was in 695, though its official founding wasn’t until 979.
Brussels built its first walls in the 13tth century, but they were destroyed on the orders of King Leopold I in 1831.
1695 saw the destruction of the city when France sent armed troops to Brussels and they later captured the city in 1746.

The city has so many architectural masterpieces that should not be missed during a stay in this beautiful city.  The Grand Place is one of these masterpieces, as is the Royal Palace, St. Michael and Gudula Cathedral and Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

While you walk along the streets of Brussels, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Atomium, take an escalator to one of the spheres to see the sights from a different angle.

Old Town is another popular tourist destination, as you walk the cobbled streets and soak up the history and culture of this area.  The Gothic Town Hall stands proud and is an architectural marvel.

Brussels is home to many museums, each with its own speciality and it will depend on your preference what you want to see.  The most viewed are the Royal Museum of Fine Art, Museum of the Army and the Comic Museum, which is always great fun for the whole family.

A night out can be enjoyed at the Brussels Theatre or La Monnaie Theatre, which are just two of the many theatres in Brussels. Enjoy a night at the opera or a theatrical musical or play.

Spend an afternoon with a tour around the European Union Headquarters and sit in on a parliamentary meeting.

Of course visiting Brussels wouldn’t be the same without sampling the famous chocolates, waffles and beer. Modules Fries are another staple in the city and can be found at any restaurant, they are the traditional mussels and chips.  Street stands are everywhere where you can enjoy hot pastries, fries and waffles while on the move.

Being such a popular tourist area, Brussels has a large selection of hotels for you to choose from this holiday.  Choose from affordable three star accommodations to luxurious five star accommodation and they all offer discounted rates at certain times.  Travelling to Brussels on a budget is easy with so many discounted hotels to choose from.

The Hotel Husa President Park is a three star establishment close to the Centre for Belgium Comic Strip, Cathedral St. Michel and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.  This hotel has a restaurant, lounge bar, health club, sauna, fitness facility and steam room.  This is an ideal affordable hotel if travelling on a budget.

The slightly more upmarket, but still affordable Martin’s Central Park is a four star hotel situated close to the European Union Building and the Museum of Musical Instruments.  This hotel has a restaurant, lounge bar, sauna and fitness facility.  You can get tour assistance at reception and an airport shuttle can be arranged on request.

The Le Meridien Brussels is five star luxury conveniently situated near the Grand Place, Brussels City Hall and Royal Palace of Brussels.  The hotel offers a restaurant, coffee shop, lounge bar and twenty four hour room service.  It also has a fitness facility and valet parking.

Once you arrive at your hotel getting around is easy, if you don’t want to drive in a city you don’t know, take advantage of the metro underground, public bus or tram services on offer.  All are extremely reliable and can get you to the sights you wish to see without any hassles.