Sunday Funday: 7 Must Try Activities in Brussels
- Introduction
- 1. Explore Historical Sights and Landmarks
- 2. Museums and Galleries
- 3. Unique Experiences for Adventure Seekers
- 4. Find Peace in Parks and Gardens
- 5. Experience Miniature Europe at Mini-Europe Park
- 6. Gourmet Dishes to Craft Beers
- 7. Unconventional Delights: Quirky Museums and Iconic Characters
- Conclusion
Sunday Funday: 7 Must Try Activities in Brussels
Introduction
How to Spend a Sunday in Brussels?
Let me show you my favourite ways to make the most of a Sunday in this lovely European city. I’ve found that Brussels has this special way of being old and new at the same time and Sunday is the day to experience it all!
Have you ever wondered what makes Brussels so special on weekends? Well I can tell you Sundays here have their own magic. The city is both peaceful and lively at the same time – it’s weird!
Whether you’re a history nerd, foodie or just looking for a fun day out I’ve found that Brussels has something for everyone. From strolling through centuries old streets to discovering hidden gems in local neighbourhoods there’s no shortage of ways to have your perfect ‘Sunday Funday’ here.
Trust me by the end of your Sunday in Brussels you’ll see why so many people (including myself!) fall in love with this city. Ready to see what a Brussels Sunday has in store for you?
1. Explore Historical Sights and Landmarks
Why I Enjoy Going to Brussels’ History on Sundays
Have you ever of considering how great Brussels is as a tourist destination? I’ve found that spending a Sunday exploring history is the best way to spend a Sunday and I can’t wait to explain how!
Stroll Through History At Grand Place
So let me tell you about my favorite historical place in Brussels, the Grand Place which is one of the best places in the entire city. Believe me, when you first enter in this UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you will be surprised! This square is like a time capsule of different architectural styles, emerging in the 1200s. I never fail to be astonished at how great the Gothic, Baroque and Louis XIV styles are.
Standing in the center of this square, I tend to feel completely different, as I'been transported back in time. As seen on guild houses, town hall and other historically elegant elaborations, all these structures were built during the time of the advancement of Brussels. And here is one tip as a very little policy: go on Sunday mornings.
Join the Future at the Unbelievably Amazing Atomium
The Atomium is like stepping into a sci-fi filme! This giant steel structure is not just a display; such a construction is on of Brussels's symbols. And the best part? There is no other place in the world to enjoy climing into sparkling balls. Trust me, when you see the combination of both sky and old building views from up there, it's something else!
My Favourite Secret Place: The Church of Our Lady of Victories
Let me tell you about one of Brussels’ best kept secrets ! Who, like me, every time I go back to the Church of Our Lady of Victories seems stunned, let alone amazed, by the stained glass windows. They bring forward incredible light, almost like magic. And the sculptures are absolutely incredible. Each one tells a story about Brussels’ rich artistic heritage.
Live like a King at the Magnificent Royal Palace
Ever wanted to live like a royal? Well here’s your chance! I love strolling through the Royal Palace’s grand rooms – each one more impressive than the last. From chandeliers to furniture it’s all just so luxurious. It’s like stepping into a fairytale and you get a real taste of Belgium’s royal history. The architecture alone will leave you speechless!
I swear - walking through the old parts of Brussels is like a time machine! I love that each landmark has a story to tell. Trust me - spend your Sunday on this route and you’ll get great pics and memories that will make you smile for years to come. I’ve done this route myself and it’s the perfect way to get into the history of the city and have fun. Who knows? You might even find some hidden gems I haven’t found yet!
2. Museums and Galleries
Brussels has an amazing art and cultural scene. Whether you like traditional art or street art, here’s what you should absolutely test:
I’ll never forget my first visit to the Musical Instruments Museum, in that beautiful Art Nouveau building that looks like a fairy tale. Trust me, you’ll be blown away by their 8,000+ instruments! Last time I was there I spent hours listening to ancient drums and modern guitars through their headphones. It’s like having your own personal concert wherever you go in the museum.
Just down the road you’ll find the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts, where I often get lost admiring the Flemish masterpieces. There’s something magical about standing in front of a Bruegel or Rubens painting, isn’t there? The way they tell stories through their art is just mesmerizing. The museum also has amazing works by James Ensor and René Magritte - their pieces always get my imagination going.
But here’s a local secret I want to share with you: some of Brussels’ best art isn’t in the museums at all! Whenever I need a creative boost I head to the neighborhoods of Saint-Gilles and Ixelles. These areas are hopping with emerging artists and galleries. And don’t even get me started on the Comic Strip Route - walking through the streets and suddenly coming face to face with giant comic book characters on building walls never gets old. Have you ever seen Tintin or the Smurfs three stories high?
Whether you prefer more traditional art or even if you are more into modern art, visiting these cultural hubs will immerse you in Brussels' creative spirit.
https://navsteria.com/blog/article/Top-7-Things-to-See-and-Do-in-Brussels for more inspiration on where to go!
3. Unique Experiences for Adventure Seekers
Brussels has a variety of unique experiences for adventure seekers. Whether you're into music, puzzles, or history, these activities will make your Sunday in Brussels even more exciting.
1. Intimate Candlelight Concerts
- Be surrounded by candlelight as you soak up the beautiful music of classical.
- Brussels has several venues that do candlelight concerts, it’s magic and intimate.
- You’ll see the virtuosity of talented musicians and beautiful ballet dancers, it’s going to be epic.
2. Escape Rooms
- Brussels has many escape rooms to put your brain to the test and your teamwork to the proof.
- These immersive experiences will transport you into different scenarios, where you have to solve puzzles, find hidden clues and unravel the mystery within a given time frame.
- It’s a fun adventure that requires quick thinking and good communication, perfect for friends or family to bond over brain-teasers.
3. Interactive Train Museum
- Explore the history of train travel at Train World, for all ages.
- Train buffs and history fans will love Train World, an interactive museum of the history of train travel.
- Located in a old railway station building, the museum has an impressive collection of locomotives, carriages and memorabilia from different eras.
- From steam engines to high speed trains, you’ll learn about the technological evolution of transportation.
- Interactive exhibits let you be a passenger or even drive a train yourself!
These are different from the usual sightseeing activities. Whether you choose to do a candlelight concert, an escape room or Train World, you’ll have an epic Sunday in Brussels. So, get ready to go wild and add some fun to your agenda !
4. Find Peace in Parks and Gardens
You know what’s funny? Every time I go to Brussels I find myself drawn to the parks like a kid to an ice cream truck. Trust me, there’s nothing better than getting out of those crazy streets and into a green oasis. Let me show you my faves!
Parc du Cinquantenaire
- First up is my number one go to, Parc du Cinquantenaire. I remember the first time I walked through those gates and my jaw dropped at the sight of that giant arch! It’s like Brussels’ version of go big or go home and I am here for it.
- So what’s my perfect Sunday? I grab a fresh baguette from my local bakery, some Belgian cheese (because when in Brussels, right?) and head to the park for an impromptu picnic. The best spot? Under one of those beautiful tree lined paths where you can people watch while staying nice and cool in the shade.
- In the spring, oh my goodness, you have to see the flower beds! They’re like nature’s own rainbow party - I’ve probably taken about a million photos there, no shame in admitting it. And if you’re like me and love a good walk and talk, the paths around the main area are perfect. You’ll find these beautiful statues and fountains that make excellent conversation starters (or selfie backdrops, just saying).
Pro tip: if it’s a Belgian day (aka rainy) duck into the Cinquantenaire Museum. I spent 3 hours there last time and geeked out over all the Belgian history. It’s like a time machine!
Brussels Park
You know what’s really cool? Behind the Royal Palace is this little slice of heaven where you can escape the city. I love spending time there!
The park is stunning, with these beautiful flower beds, peaceful ponds where you forget you’re in the city and lush greenery that puts your mind at ease. It’s like nature’s own stress relief, in the middle of Brussels!
Here’s what I like to do : sit on one of the benches or find a nice spot under one of the old trees. There’s something so lovely about just sitting there and taking it all in. And if you’re into history and art, you’ll enjoy the beautiful monuments throughout the park, including the statue of King Leopold II.
Oh, and if you can time your visit for spring, you’re in for a treat! The cherry blossoms are absolutely stunning - it’s like walking through a pink wonderland. I’ve seen many people taking their perfect Instagram shots there!
Whatever you do, Parc du Cinquantenaire or Brussels Park can’t be bad. They’re both little urban paradises where you can spend your Sunday exactly as you want - a slow walk, a picnic or just find your own quiet spot to relax. Believe me, there’s no better Sunday in Brussels than in these parks!
5. Experience Miniature Europe at Mini-Europe Park
Hey there! Ever dreamed of exploring all of Europe in just one day? Well, at Mini-Europe Park, you can do just that! It's this super cool place in Brussels where you can wander through a magical world of tiny versions of Europe's most famous places.
What Makes Mini-Europe Park Special
Let me tell you why this place is absolutely amazing:
- It's All in the Details: You will be surprised how much details are being put into these miniatures! Yes, even the small pieces of brick and little statuettes. The audience is treated with the magic of shrunk reality whenever they gaze upon such replicas.
- Fun Way to Learn: Note that while you are getting entertained, there are such info boards situated on the corners of each monument. They are filled with facts and interesting stories that will leave you saying, “Wow! Did not know that!”
- See Things Differently: What's so great about it? The fact that these iconic structures are built in models means that you will be seeing everything on the models’ perspective. Miniatures come with dozens of delicate details which cannot be comprehended in the real-world versions. It is like being a giant looking through an entire, tiny, scale model of Europe.
- Hands-on Fun: And the best part? You can all play! You just press some buttons and you will start seeing miniature toys come to life – small trains will start chugging away, tiny cows and twiggy turbines and people begin twirling, and little jets of water begin to spout out of tubas on small tables. Isn’t that amazing?
- Something for Everyone: This spot is yeah complete, from the ancient Greek acropolis all the way through the current day years! Imagine that going on a European road trip with no long drives and expensive hotels. The best part of all this is that several European sights can be seen within a few hours
6. Gourmet Dishes to Craft Beers
In terms of food, Brussels is cosmopolitan and dynamic, making it easy for even the most demanding gourmet to find satisfaction. Iconic Belgian meals or brand new, the city is full of appetites. Here are some ideas to embrace your appetite and other great things how to spend your time in Brussels:
Savor the Flavors: Exploring Brussels' Diverse Culinary Landscape
So I’m going to narrate my food escapades in Brussels – be ready to tantalize your taste buds! There are numerous Sundays I have used in searching the taste of this city, and today I am happy to share my bests with you.
Let’s start with where to have a meal first. You know that feeling when you crave for something unusual? Brussels has it! Here are the places which will always make me salivate:
- Ever been to Comme Chez Soi? This place has been serving up Belgian food since 1926 (almost 100 years of yum!). I still remember my first time there - the food was so pretty I almost felt bad eating it. Almost. 😉
- Then there’s Belga Queen which is actually in an old bank building (how cool is that?). Pro tip: save room for their Belgian waffles. I dream about these sometimes, no joke!
- If you’re feeling fancy, it is Bon Bon, where the famous chef christophe create food art. This is an artist, but rather than paints, local products form the basis for the creation of art on the plate.
Raise a Glass of Fine Craft Beer
Let us throw some light also on what, in my opinion, is the best part – Beer! Did you know that there are more than one hundred and fifty breweries in Belgium? That’s a lot of beers to sample (and a challenge I quite accept)! Gets me excited to write more about my favourite alcoholic beverage. Here’s where I love to grab a cold one :
- Moeder Lambic is my go-to when I can’t decide what to drink. They have so many beers on tap, it’s like beer heaven! I usually go for their suggestion, it’s the best way to try different styles.
- Want to see how the magic happens? Go to Cantilon Brewery, and you will find the answer to this question. It’s family owned and they still make beer like them ancestors did. Their Gueuze has something special, it’s like the champagne of beers!
So what do you say? Eager to join me for some food and drinks in Brussels? There is nothing better for a Sunday than going out in quest of new tastes and enjoying cups of the best drinks Belgium has to offer! Raising a glass to that premise.
7. Unconventional Delights: Quirky Museums and Iconic Characters
Encounter the Playful Spirit of Brussels: Exploring Its Quirkier Side
- Find out the story of the well-known statues of Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis, which embody a sense of humor that seems to be rather unrestrained.
- Spend additional time pursuing a piece of music history at the Hard Rock Cafe decorated with artifacts of rock and roll elite.
- Experience the distant past at the Dinos Alive exhibition where there are realistic models of large-scaled dinosaurs
Conclusion
It is so easy to have a Sunday Funday in Brussels. The city has combine history, culture, nature and food in one. A day of discovery and fun.
Brussels is a city that has something for everyone. From the fairytale like Grand Place to the iconic Atomium with city views, it’s a mix of historic architecture and street art. Cultural highlights are the Musical Instruments Museum and Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts. Unique experiences are candlelight concerts and Belgian escape rooms, Parc du Cinquantenaire for a peaceful break and Mini Europe for a whimsical tour of European landmarks. The food from fine dining to street fries and craft beer to world class chocolate, Brussels is a foodie destination.
Go! 🎉😊👍️️️️️️️️️