Brussels - The Capital City of Belgium
Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and one of the most important political, cultural, and economic centres of the European Union. The city has a rich history, and is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis and the Atomium. Brussels's rich history dates back to the Roman era, and its strategic location as a crossroad between northern and southern Europe has played an important role throughout history.
The city is well-connected with an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro trains.
Places to visit in Brussels
Brussels is known for its historic architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. To help travellers plan a better trip to Brussels, IndiGo has curated a list of must-visit places. The codeshare with Turkish Airlines ensures a smooth journey.
- Atomium - The Atomium, a modern symbol of Brussels, was constructed for the 1958 World Expo and is designed to resemble an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Offering stunning panoramic views of the city from its highest sphere, it is a must-see destination for visitors. It also features a range of fascinating exhibitions.
- Royal Palace of Brussels - The Royal Palace of Brussels is a grand and historic landmark in the heart of Brussels, Belgium. Originally constructed in the late 18th century, the palace is the official residence of the Belgian King and Queen. It is used for various state functions and events. Visitors to Brussels can tour the palace during the summer months when the King is not in residence. The palace features opulent interiors, including the Mirror Room, Throne Room, and Grand Staircase. Visitors can also explore the palace gardens which are home to various sculptures and fountains.
- Mini Europe - It is a park with scaled-down models of famous European landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and Leaning Tower of Pisa, among many others. Visitors to Mini Europe can stroll through the park and admire the impressive and detailed models, which are designed to be as accurate as possible. The park also features interactive exhibits and displays, providing visitors with a fun and educational experience. Mini Europe is an excellent destination for families, as children can learn about the landmarks and cultures of different European countries while enjoying the miniature models
- Belgian Comic Strip Center - The Belgian Comic Strip Center is located in a unique and historic Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta, a famous Belgian architect. The building is attractive, having a beautiful glass roof and intricate ironwork. It is dedicated to the history and art of comic strips, which have a rich tradition in Belgium and are celebrated as a significant cultural setup. The centre features exhibitions showcasing famous Belgian comic strip characters, including Tintin, Smurfs, and Spirou. Visitors can learn about the history and evolution of comic strips, as well as the art and techniques used to create them. The centre also hosts temporary exhibits on different themes and artists in the world of comic strips.
- Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert - Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a famous shopping arcade. It is a historic landmark that dates back to the mid-19th century and has stunning architecture and a range of high-end shops and restaurants. The arcade is covered by a glass roof and divided into three sections, with two smaller galleries on either side and a larger central gallery. Visitors can wander through the arcade and admire the beautiful architecture, including the ornate ironwork, grand arches, and elegant storefronts.
- Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium - The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a group of museums in Brussels, Belgium. The museums showcase a vast collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings, from the 15th century to the present. The collection is divided into several different museums, each with its own focus. The Old Masters Museum has paintings from the Flemish and Dutch schools, including works by Bruegel, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The Modern Museum showcases art from the 19th and 20th centuries, with works by artists such as Magritte, Ensor, and Spilliaert. The Wiertz Museum is dedicated to the works of Belgian painter Antoine Wiertz, and the Meunier Museum features sculptures and drawings by Belgian artist Constantin Meunier.
- Jubelpark - Jubelpark is an important landmark in Brussels and a testament to Belgium's rich history and culture. It was created in the late 19th century to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Belgium's Independence. It offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to experience some of the country's most iconic landmarks and monuments. The park hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, fireworks displays, and outdoor exhibitions. The park is easily accessible by public transportation and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
- Grand Place - The Grand Place, also known as the Grote Markt, is the central square of Brussels and one of the most iconic landmarks in Belgium. Today, the Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the Gothic-style Town Hall and the ornate guild halls that line the square. The Grand Place has a long history dating back to the 11th century when it was a marketplace for traders. Over the centuries, it became a hub for political and cultural events, and a popular gathering place for locals and visitors.
Important things to remember for a trip to Brussels
- The official currency is the Euro, so it's recommended to exchange your currency before taking flights to Brussels. You can also withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival.
- Brussels boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro trains. Consider purchasing a Jump ticket for unlimited rides on public transport during your visit.
- To make the most out of your trip, plan your travel between March and May.
- Book tickets in advance for any popular sightseeing destinations to avoid the hassle.
Brussels Airport
Brussels Airport, also referred to as Brussels Airport Zaventem (BRU), is the main international airport serving the city of Brussels, Belgium. Located approximately 12 km northeast of the city centre, it is among the busiest airports in Europe.
The airport has two terminals: Terminal A caters to Schengen flights, while Terminal B is designated for non-Schengen flights. Passengers can easily reach the airport using various modes of transport such as trains, buses, taxis, or private cars. The airport also provides many convenient facilities including restaurants, shops, and lounges, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience for passengers arriving or departing from Brussels.
Brussels visa requirements
To travel to Brussels, tourists are required to obtain a Belgium tourist visa or Schengen visa. The following documents must be submitted as part of the Brussels visa application process:
- Belgium visa application form.
- Two photos with Belgium-specific requirements.
- Your passport.
- Copies of your previous visas (if applicable).
- Language Preference Form.
- Round-trip flight itinerary.
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay in Belgium.
- Employment status documents.