Brussels – An Enchanting City

Capital of Belgium

The Belgian capital Brussels also doubles up as the de facto capital city of the European Union. The city has grown from a 10th century fortress town into a thriving metropolis as you see it now. It was founded by a progeny of the last virtual Holy Roman Emperor, Charlemagne who, incidentally, was either of German or French origin, but definitely not a Roman.

The people of Brussels were traditionally Dutch-speaking, as they were supposed to be, being after all located in Belgium. Since the 19th century the city was showing the tendency of becoming increasingly French-speaking. This linguistic diversity, and probably also its mixed ethnicity, provided the favorable climate for Brussels to acquire a pan-European flabour and open up to international organisations. Brussels not only hosts EU, but NATO also has established its headquarters here. All this has made Brussels to become an interesting, liberal, vibrant and cosmopolitan city, buzzing with business travelers and tourists.

Exploring the city

What will strike you first on your arrival here is the dramatic mix of grandoise classical buildings with the arrogance of shining skyscrapers.

The best way to know Brussels – or any city for that matter – is by walking. But you cannot possibly walk all over the city if it is big – and Brussels is indeed a big city. Select the areas that you would enjoy more while exploring as a pedestrian. Use the efficient public transport like, bus, tram and metro for visit the rest of the city. Taxis – both metered and private – are easily available but not really necessary. Driving a r=ented car or motorbike is not advisable. Getting around this medieval city isn’t always an easy task. Users of street are no longer horse and horse-driven carriages. Motorized traffic sometime choke streets in old part of the city.

The city’s layout

An interesting part of Brussels is the city center district always abaz with activities. Many alluring shops and glamorous boutiques are located here. It is also the location of the fortified medieval city.

Tourist attractions

The best way to start your tour and know the city is to visit the Grand’Place first. It is a historic market place and a treasure trove of majestic medieval buildings. The Gothic tower of the Town Hall dominates the skyline. Stretch your neck skywards and spot the 1455-vintage guilded statue of St Michael on top of the tower.

Another historical building in this area is the Maison du Roi in French or Broodhuis in Dutch with several statues. It is now the City Museum.

The façade of The Royal Palace was built around 1900. The palace, however, was in existence since the late 18th century on the ground where once stood the original palatial complex dating back to the Middle Ages.

There are many places of historical importance in this area. See as many as possible, by walking as much as possible.

Hotels and restaurants

Hotels are available to suit individual requirements. You should consider booking one in the City Center district where, within walking distance, you will find many local attractions like monuments, museums and quality restaurants. Business travelers will also find it convenient many commercial and government offices are located in the neighborhood.

Local cuisine

Along with Paris and Hong Kong, Brussels is one of the finest cities that offer exquisite dining and wining opportunities. Traditional Belgians in Brussels still use recipes created in medieval times. Local restaurants use a wide variety of seafood besides conventional eatable animals and birds.

Welcome to Brussels

Come to this enchanting city and enjoy exploring its majestic historical buildings, ancient market squares, gourmet food, cultural programs and, to top it all, the pleasure of being in the midst of warm-hearted wonderful people.