Business District Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for staying safe in Business District, Brussels.


Introduction to Business District

Brussels is a vibrant city that is home to the EU headquarters, and the Business District is the economic heart of the city. Tourists and business travelers alike will find plenty to do in this bustling area. From its luxurious hotels to its world-class shopping centers, Business District is the perfect place to stay when visiting Brussels.

List of Places to Visit in Business District

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: Displaying over 20,000 works of art from the 15th to the 21st century, this museum boasts an impressive collection of Belgian and international artists.
  2. The Magritte Museum: Tribute to the famous Belgian surrealist artist, René Magritte. You can immerse yourself in his artwork in this quaint museum.
  3. The Musical Instruments Museum: Home to more than 8,000 instruments, including rare and ancient ones, the exhibits at this museum showcase the evolution of music.

Natural Attractions of Business District: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Parc du Cinquantenaire: Perfect for a morning jog or a peaceful stroll, this park is one of the largest green spaces in the city.
  2. Bois de la Cambre: Located near the city center, this park offers scenic views of a natural woodland landscape, a picturesque pond, and several walking paths.
  3. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: This seasonal attraction is open to the public for three weeks every spring, allowing visitors a chance to explore the stunning conservatories that house a collection of exotic plants.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Business District

Business District is home to several biking and hiking trails. Some popular trails include:

  • The Brussels Ring: Circles the city and provides either 120 km and 6 hours biking trails for cycling enthusiasts.
  • Forest de Soignes: One of the most beautiful patches of woodland in Brussels that is perfect for hiking or a picnic with friends.

Best Things to Do in Business District: Activities and Tours

  1. Brussels Chocolate Tour: Take the best chocolate tour in Europe, guided by professional chocolate makers.
  2. Brussels Food and Beer Tour: discover the taste of Belgian beers and traditional food in a walking tour.
  3. Brussels Walking Tour: The best way to learn about the history of the city is through a walking tour. Follow the guide while strolling through the old streets surrounded by medieval buildings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Business District

Day 1: Visit the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, then visit the Royal Palace and finish the day exploring the Grand Place.

Day 2: Delve into Belgian art and culture by visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Royal Palace of Brussels and Manneken Pis.

Day 3: Visit Brussels’ famous landmarks, such as the Atomium and the Mini Europe Park.

Day 4: Discover the natural beauty of the Forest de Soignes by taking a hiking or biking trip through the park.

Day 5: See Brussels by boat and enjoy the city’s many canals, each with their unique history and character.

Day 6: Get in touch with Brussels’s food & beer scene with a walking food tour in the city center.

Day 7: Spend your last day shopping in the famous Louise Avenue and take home some delicious Belgian chocolates or traditional souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Business District

No trip to Brussels is complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Belgian waffles: Famous for its sweet and crunchy texture, Belgium produces some of the best waffles in the world.
  2. Flemish Stew: A hearty beef stew that is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
  3. Moules-Frites: The national dish, made from fresh Belgian mussels and served with crispy fries and a selection of sauces.

Local Beverages

  1. Belgian beer: best in the world; it is a must-try during your visit to Brussels.
  2. Jenever: A traditional Dutch liquor made from juniper berries and distilled in copper pots, typically served in shot glasses.

Where to Stay in Business District: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Hotel Amigo: Luxury hotel with Beautiful interior decoration and comfortable beds located on the Grand Place.
  2. The Marivaux Hotel: Famous for its spacious rooms and flexible bedding arrangements, this hotel is perfect for families or large groups.
  3. The Train Hostel: A unique hostel located in a renovated railway station.

What to Buy in Business District: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Belgian chocolate: A trip to Brussels would never be complete without picking up some delicious Belgian chocolates, and Brussel’s finest chocolates can be found in the exclusive Neuhaus or Marcolini boutiques.
  2. Lace: Belgian lace-making is a centuries-old tradition, and you can browse their intricate designs at the Sablon neighborhood.
  3. Atomium Souvenirs: Miniature of the Brussels Atomium is all around the souvenir shops on the Grand Place.

Local Culture and Customs of Business District

The currency in Brussels is the Euro. French and Dutch are the two official languages.

Best Time to Visit Business District

The best time to visit Business District is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Winter is also an excellent time to visit as the city’s Christmas markets are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Business District

Do:

  1. Say hello in French or Dutch when you enter a shop or restaurant.
  2. Try to read as much French or Dutch writing as you can and use it to practice your language skills.
  3. Carry cash, as some establishments do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  1. Forget to try traditional Belgian foods while you’re in the country.
  2. Expect locals to speak English, although they often do, it would still be courteous to learn simple sentences in their native language.
  3. Eat an ice cream cone while walking. It is not standard practice in Brussels and might come off as disrespectful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Business District

Business District is generally safe; however, tourists must take precautions to avoid becoming victims of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching.

Health in Business District

Brussels has good-quality healthcare, and tourists can use public hospitals, clinics, and doctors without difficulty. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is valid in Brussels.

Getting to Business District: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Business District

  1. Brussels Airport: Approximately 11 km away from Business District
  2. Charleroi Airport: Approximately 56 km away from Business District

Bus Stations Near Business District

  1. De Brouckère bus station
  2. Don Bosco bus station

Other Options

  1. Metro: A convenient and affordable way to travel within Brussels.
  2. Tram: A good way to navigate the city center.

How to Get Around in Business District

Walking is the best way to see the sights, but travelers should also consider renting a bike, using public transportation or hiring a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Business District: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Leuven: A vibrant college town with a rich student culture and beautiful medieval architecture.
  2. Waterloo: Home to one of the most iconic battlefields in history.
  3. Ghent: A picturesque city with canals, castles, and a vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Enjoy all that this bustling district of Brussels has to offer, from its historical landmarks to its world-class shopping and dining. By following this guide, you’ll have all the information needed to experience the best the Business District has to offer and to do so safely and responsibly.

''Witloof'', a popular vegetable accidentally ''Witloof'', a popular vegetable accidentally "invented" in the botanical garden of Brussels