Experience
Belgium

BUCKET LIST TRAVEL : BRUSSELS

A warm welcome in the capital of Europe

Brussels, the centre of European institutions, is a cosmopolitan and friendly city. Whether strolling through the streets of the old town, wandering around the remarkable Grand-Place square or snapping a photo in front of the mischievous Manneken Pis, this city is easy to get around and explore on foot.

DIVE DEEP IN UCCLE

Ever wanted to explore the depths of the ocean? You’ll need some sessions in the pool first. There are several in France, but one of the deepest in the world can be found at the Nemo 33 diving centre in Uccle in the Brussels region (Rue de Stalle 333, 1180 Uccle).

Dive 33 metres deep, a depth which earnt this unique pool won the record for being the world’s deepest diving pool in 2004. It held the crown for a decade before being knocked off the top by Italy’s 40-metre Montegrotto Terme pool.

Nevertheless, Uccle’s pool is simply spectacular for a first diving experience. Want to explore the open seas and discover marine life? Take a leap into the 33-metre pool and experience a whole new world.

Must-sees in Brussels

The arc of the fiftieth anniversary park in Brussels

CINQUANTENAIRE PARK

This 30-hectare park close to the European institutions is home to the Cinquantenaire Palace. It’s famous for its triumphal arch topped with a bronze quadriga, like the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, and its museums. The site was built in 1880 for the 50^th anniversary of Belgium’s independence.

THE MANNEKEN PIS

The Manneken Pis (little boy weeing) is an unmissable sight in Brussels. This mischievous statue is just 55cm tall and sits on top of a fountain. It’s just a short walk from the Grand-Place, the city’s central square surrounded by magnificent buildings, including the Town Hall and the Maison du Roi (King’s House).

The Palace of Brussels, residence of the Belgian monarchy

THE ROYAL PALACE OF BRUSSELS

It’s the administrative residence of the Belgian monarchy, making it the King’s office. It’s closed to the public for a large part of the year. The palace opens its doors in summer from the 21^st of July until the start of September. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the elaborately decorated reception rooms.

The Gothic Cathedral of Saints Michael and Gudula in the center of Brussels

SAINT MICHAEL AND SAINT GUDULA CATHEDRAL

This Gothic cathedral was constructed in the 13^th century, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel and Saint Gudula, patron saints of Brussels. It’s a perfect place for contemplation before a stroll in Brussels Park. The park is an elegant greenery oasis with statues and a large pond adjoining the Royal Palace of Brussels.

ATOMIUM

Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, Atomium is a 102-metre steel structure representing an iron crystal cell magnified 165 billion times. It’s a symbol of the city. Admire from the outside and visit inside through tubes and spheres, the highest of which offers panoramic views.