Brussels

Brussels is known to be more than just Europes capital city and any visit to Brussels should include at least some of the most popular below.

Grand Place

Everything starts here - Brussels most distinguished feature started life as a cobbled market around the 12th century. Most buildings that are the size of such a framework sharp from the Grand Place today were not erected until the 18th century.

Local councils that give Grand Place is the identity were part of trading companies formed around the 13th century - notably butchers, bakers and drapers. Each Guildhall stands by some unique designs.

Perhaps the most admired part of Grand Place is the magnificent Hotel de Ville, which was completed in 1444 by architect Jan von Ruysbroeck. Since then he has been described as a gothic masterpiece and one of the most beautiful in Belgium. Inside, you can tour and see more a work of art and the wonderful tapestry of the 15th century. Enjoy the breathtaking majesty of the conference room with antique tapestry and the "aldermen Room" where even today the Mayor holds certain prolific meetings. The last masterpiece of the Hotel de Ville is its exquisite belfry - described as one of the best in the world. Now City Hall is the center of Brussels.

The King's House was built in 1536 by (then) Spanish leaders and today houses a fine collection of art, tapestries and Manneken Pis from the 16th century. Meaning "Kings House" Maison du Roi is now the Theatre Museum of the City of Brussels - a collection of medieval art. If you're going to see a number of museums during your stay in Brussels, you can benefit from a "Brussels Card" which offers free admission to 30 museums from 30 Euros - the holder also gets unlimited access on public transport and discounts on various other attractions and restaurants.

Le Pigeon is known as the home of Victor Hugo, the famous French writer in 1852 after fleeing France after the French insurrection and La Maison des Bakers was built by the guild of bakers - a testimony to their power and wealth at the time. House of Tailors was made famous by the statue of the patron saint St Barbara - this was the guild of tailors.

One of the best experiences of visiting Brussels is to enjoy a coffee or a beer in one of the cafes set within Grand Place and watch the bustle of tourists potter along the cobbled streets while watching greatness.

If you intend to have something to eat in and around the Grand-Place, then there is no shortage of options. If you're in the mood for traditional Belgian fare, try t'Kelderke that serves the usual offerings of mussels and fries at reasonable prices. Katya is also a kitchen facility serving a variety of interesting dishes, including Asian and more traditional Belgian dishes. There are other restaurants within a stone's throw from the Grand Place if they do not take your fancy simply take to the streets until something does.

Try to come back to see the Grand Place at night - the lively atmosphere and night lights make it a very rewarding experience.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Beautiful, tree-lined Parc du Cinquantenaire was built as a tribute to the celebration of gold for Belgian independence in 1880. The famous Arc de Triomphe landmark was completed several years after the park was built.

The park houses the Army Museum is a museum describing Belgic military history and includes various articles dating back over two centuries. Gateway in the city is marked by the central arch. Interestingly, the park also hosts "Autoworld" which has hundreds of vintage cars on display. Also worth a visit to the Cinquantenaire Museum which houses objects of international civilizat.