Our guide on the Mistakes To Avoid In Brussels and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is a city that blends medieval charm with modern sophistication. From its iconic waffles and chocolates to historic squares and vibrant neighborhoods, Brussels is a city full of surprises.
However, to fully enjoy what Brussels has to offer, it’s important to avoid a few common mistakes that travelers often make. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the city, maximize your experience, and avoid typical pitfalls.
Brussels is a city of hidden gems, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine. Avoiding these common mistakes will help you experience the city like a local and fully appreciate its rich history and diverse culture. Enjoy your journey through this fascinating European capital!
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Mistakes To Avoid In Brussels
1. Only Visiting for a Day Trip
Mistake: Treating Brussels as a quick day trip destination and only spending a few hours here before moving on to other cities like Bruges or Ghent.
How to Avoid:
Spend at Least 2-3 Days: While Brussels is often overlooked in favor of smaller Belgian cities, it has plenty to offer.
From museums and historic landmarks to modern attractions and a dynamic food scene, Brussels deserves more time.
Explore Beyond the Grand Place: While the Grand Place is stunning, venture into neighborhoods like Sablon, Ixelles, and Saint-Gilles to see different sides of the city.
Visit the European Quarter: Take a walk through the European Quarter to see the European Parliament and other EU institutions.
Tip: Plan your itinerary to include at least 2 days in Brussels to experience its rich culture, cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
2. Ignoring the City’s Diverse Neighborhoods
Mistake: Sticking to the city center and missing out on Brussels’ diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own unique vibe and attractions.
How to Avoid:
Explore the Marolles: A historic working-class neighborhood known for its vibrant flea markets, street art, and vintage shops. Don’t miss the Jeu de Balle Flea Market.
Visit the Trendy District of Ixelles: Full of Art Nouveau architecture, chic cafés, and the lively Matongé area, which offers a taste of African culture.
Discover Saint-Gilles: Known for its art studios, quirky boutiques, and local markets. It’s a hotspot for creatives and artists.
Head to the EU Quarter: For a modern feel and a peek into Europe’s political scene, walk around Schuman and Leopold Park.
Tip: Use public transport or rent a bike to explore these neighborhoods, as they are all easily accessible from the city center.
3. Missing Out on Belgian Cuisine Beyond Waffles and Chocolate
Mistake: Limiting your food experience to just Belgian waffles, chocolate, and fries without exploring other local dishes.
How to Avoid:
Try Local Specialties: Brussels has a rich culinary scene. Make sure to sample traditional dishes like:
Moules-frites (Mussels with fries): A must-try Belgian classic, often cooked in white wine, garlic, or cream.
Carbonnade flamande: A hearty beef stew cooked in dark beer.
Waterzooi: A creamy stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and eggs.
Stoofvlees: A rich beef stew simmered in beer, usually served with fries.
Visit a Local Brasserie: Head to traditional Belgian brasseries like ‘t Kelderke or La Roue d’Or to try these specialties in a cozy, authentic setting.
Tip: Don’t forget to pair your meal with a local Belgian beer — Belgium is home to over 1,000 varieties!
4. Only Eating at Tourist Spots Around Grand Place
Mistake: Dining only in the tourist-heavy areas around Grand Place, where restaurants can be overpriced and food quality inconsistent.
How to Avoid:
Venture Away from Tourist Traps: Walk a few blocks away from Grand Place to discover authentic and more reasonably priced eateries.
Check Out the Local Favorites: Try the Saint-Catherine area for seafood (Brussels’ unofficial seafood district) or the Ixelles and Saint-Gilles districts for hidden gems.
Avoid Rue des Bouchers: This street is infamous for aggressive touts and overpriced tourist traps. Opt for nearby streets with more authentic dining options.
Tip: Use apps like Google Reviews or ask locals for recommendations if you’re unsure.
5. Skipping the Atomium and Mini-Europe
Mistake: Missing out on the Atomium and Mini-Europe because they are slightly outside the city center and perceived as touristy.
How to Avoid:
Make Time for a Visit: The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most iconic structures. It offers a unique design and panoramic views of the city from its top sphere.
Combine it with Mini-Europe: Right next to the Atomium, Mini-Europe features small-scale models of famous European landmarks. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Go Early or Late: Visit early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the large crowds.
Tip: Take metro line 6 to Heysel/Heizel Station for easy access to the Atomium and surrounding attractions.
6. Thinking Brussels Is All About Beer and Ignoring Belgian Breweries
Mistake: Focusing only on well-known beer brands like Stella Artois and Jupiler and missing out on the variety of craft breweries and Trappist beers.
How to Avoid:
Try the Local Beer Bars: Head to bars like Delirium Café (which offers over 2,000 beers) or Moeder Lambic to sample a wide range of Belgian brews.
Explore Trappist Beers: Belgium is famous for its Trappist beers, brewed by monks in monasteries. Try Chimay, Rochefort, or Orval for a true taste of Belgian brewing tradition.
Visit the Cantillon Brewery: A historic family-run brewery that produces traditional lambic and gueuze beers using centuries-old methods.
Tip: Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and taste unique varieties that aren’t widely available outside Belgium.
7. Underestimating the Weather
Mistake: Assuming that Brussels’ weather is always mild and not preparing for sudden changes, especially in the colder months.
How to Avoid:
Pack for All Seasons: Brussels has a reputation for unpredictable weather. Bring layers, a good waterproof jacket, and an umbrella even in summer.
Be Ready for Rain: The city experiences frequent showers, so be prepared with waterproof footwear if you plan to explore on foot.
Tip: Use a weather app to check the forecast daily and adapt your clothing and plans accordingly.
8. Not Understanding the Language Situation
Mistake: Assuming everyone speaks French, ignoring the multilingual nature of Brussels, which is officially bilingual (French and Dutch).
How to Avoid:
Know the Basics of Both Languages: Brussels is a mix of French and Dutch speakers, and knowing a few words in each language shows respect. For example:
Hello: “Bonjour” (French) or “Hallo” (Dutch)
Thank you: “Merci” (French) or “Dank u” (Dutch)
Goodbye: “Au revoir” (French) or “Tot ziens” (Dutch)
Use English as a Bridge Language: Most people in Brussels, especially younger generations, speak English, so you can usually default to it.
Tip: Pay attention to street signs, which may be in French or Dutch, and be open to using both languages interchangeably.
9. Overlooking the Lesser-Known Museums
Mistake: Sticking only to the big-name museums like the Magritte Museum and skipping the smaller, quirky ones.
How to Avoid:
Visit the Comics Art Museum: Brussels is the birthplace of the Smurfs and Tintin. The Belgian Comic Strip Center is dedicated to the country’s comic book history.
Explore the Musical Instruments Museum: This museum offers a fascinating collection of over 8,000 instruments and interactive displays.
Check Out Train World: Located in Schaerbeek, this museum is a must-see for train enthusiasts, featuring vintage trains and modern displays.
Tip: Purchase a Brussels Card, which offers free entry to 49 museums and discounts on other attractions.
10. Not Booking Attractions in Advance
Mistake: Assuming you can visit major attractions like the Magritte Museum or Atomium without prior booking, which can result in long wait times or missed opportunities.
How to Avoid:
Book Tickets Online: For popular attractions like the Atomium, Magritte Museum, and European Parliament, book your tickets in advance to save time and ensure entry.
Arrive Early: If you’re visiting without pre-booking, go early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Tip: Check for combo tickets that include multiple attractions to save money.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.