North-East Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hike, eat, stay, and more in North-East, Brussels with our in-depth guide.


Introduction to North-East

North-East is a vibrant district in Brussels that is deeply rooted in history and culture. It is located in the Benelux region of Europe and attracts visitors from all over the world with its rich heritage, scenic views, and delicious cuisine. This comprehensive travel guide is designed to help you plan your trip to North-East with ease and explore the best that this district has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in North-East

North-East is filled with attractions that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the must-visit places in the district:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Autrique House Museum: This beautiful building is a fine example of Art Nouveau architecture and showcases the works of Belgian artist Victor Horta.
  2. Schaerbeek Museum of Beer: If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss this museum which tells the story of Belgium’s beer-making tradition.
  3. Train World: A fascinating museum that explores the history of trains and railways in Belgium

Natural Attractions of North-East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Josaphat Park: This park is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city and offers a great place to enjoy a picnic or a relaxing stroll.
  2. Tour & Taxis Park: One of the largest parks in Brussels, this green space is perfect for cycling, jogging, and exploring.
  3. Meise Botanic Garden: This beautiful garden is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility, that offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North-East

North-East offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in the city. Here are our top picks:

  1. Green Belt Trail: This scenic trail takes you through some of the most beautiful parks in Brussels, including Josaphat and Laeken.
  2. Schaerbeek Green Cycle Route: This bike trail takes you through the charming streets of Schaerbeek, and offers some great views of the city along the way.

Best Things to Do in North-East: Activities and Tours

  1. Chocolate Tour: Visit some of the best chocolatiers in Brussels and discover the secrets behind making delicious Belgian chocolate.
  2. Brussels Art Nouveau Tour: Explore the stunning Art Nouveau architecture that Brussels is famous for on this guided tour.
  3. Street Food Tour: Savor the flavors of Brussels’s street food scene on this culinary adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for North-East

Here’s how you can make the most of your week in North-East:

Day Activity
1 Visit Autrique House Museum and Josaphat Park
2 Explore the Schaerbeek Green Cycle Route and Meise Botanic Garden
3 Discover the history of Belgian beer at Schaerbeek Museum of Beer and enjoy a relaxing picnic at Tour & Taxis Park
4 Take a chocolate tour and sample the best chocolates in the city
5 Go on a Brussels Art Nouveau tour
6 Hike the Green Belt Trail and enjoy the scenic views of the city
7 Join a street food tour and savor the flavors of the city

Food and Drink Scene of North-East

Belgium is known for its mouth-watering food and drink offerings, and North-East is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Stoemp: This hearty dish is made from mashed potatoes and vegetables, and is usually served with a sausage or pork chop.
  2. Moules-frites: This classic Belgian dish consists of steamed mussels and fries, and is usually served with a side of mayonnaise.
  3. Belgian Waffles: These famous waffles are served with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Belgian Beer: Belgium is famous for its beers, and there are a large number of breweries and beer halls in North-East where you can sample some of the best brews in the country.
  2. Chocolate Milk: Belgium is also known for its delicious chocolate milk, which is made from real Belgian chocolate.

Where to Stay in North-East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North-East offers a range of accommodation options to suit all kinds of budgets. Here are some of our top picks:

  1. Train Hostel: A unique hostel that is housed in a former train station.
  2. Thon Hotel Brussels: This modern hotel is located in the heart of North-East, making it a great base for exploring the city.
  3. Guesthouse Vakantie Logies: A charming guesthouse located in a quiet residential area, that offers affordable accommodation with a personal touch.

What to Buy in North-East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or unique gifts to bring back home, here are some ideas:

  1. Belgian Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its chocolates and there are plenty of chocolatiers in North-East where you can sample and purchase your favorites.
  2. Belgian Beer: Belgium is known for its beers, and there are numerous breweries and beer halls where you can purchase a variety of local brews.
  3. Art Nouveau Prints: North-East is home to some stunning Art Nouveau architecture, and you can purchase prints and souvenirs featuring these beautiful designs.

Local Culture and Customs of North-East

Belgium is a multicultural country that is home to many different nationalities. Despite this, there are certain customs and traditions that are unique to the country and that you’ll likely encounter during your visit to North-East. One such tradition is the famous Belgian fries, which are a must-try during your trip.

Best Time to Visit North-East

North-East can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, if you’re looking to experience the festive atmosphere of Brussels, then the months of November and December are perfect as the city is lit up with Christmas markets and decorations.

Do’s and Don’ts of North-East

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts that will help you make the most of your trip to North-East:

Do:

  1. Try the local cuisine: North-East is known for its delicious food and drink offerings, so be sure to sample some local delicacies during your visit.
  2. Explore the Art Nouveau architecture: Brussels is known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, and North-East is home to some stunning examples of this style.
  3. Visit the green spaces: North-East offers a range of beautiful parks and gardens, so remember to bring your walking shoes and explore these peaceful oases.

Don’t:

  1. Forget your manners: Belgians are known for their politeness and courtesy, so be sure to use phrases like “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals.
  2. Ignore the weather: Brussels can be rainy at times, so be sure to pack some waterproof clothing and an umbrella to stay dry.
  3. Be rude to other tourists: Brussels is a popular tourist destination, so be sure to be considerate of other visitors and follow the rules of common courtesy.

Safety and Health

Safety in North-East

Brussels is generally a safe city, but like all big cities, there are certain areas that are best avoided at night. It’s also important to watch out for pickpockets and keep your valuables safe when out and about.

Health in North-East

Belgium has a good healthcare system, and there are numerous hospitals and clinics in Brussels where you can receive medical treatment if needed. Remember to pack any necessary medication and travel insurance before you depart on your trip.

Getting to North-East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North-East

  1. Brussels Airport: This is the main airport in Belgium and is located around 10 km from North-East.
  2. Charleroi Airport: This airport is located around 60 km from North-East and is served by various low-cost airlines.

Bus Stations Near North-East

  1. Gare du Nord: This is the main bus station in North-East and offers connections to various cities in Belgium and Europe.
  2. Schaerbeek Bus Station: This station offers connections to various destinations in Brussels and is located within walking distance of North-East.

Other Options

  1. Train: North-East is well-connected by train, with various stations located in the district.
  2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in North-East and can be hired for short or long distances.

How to Get Around in North-East

North-East is a compact district and is easily navigable on foot or by bike. The public transport system in Brussels is also efficient and affordable, with a range of options available such as buses, trams, and metro.

Where to Go Next from North-East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Belgium, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  1. Brussels City Center: This vibrant district is home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Brussels, such as the Grand Place and Manneken Pis.
  2. Atomium: This futuristic structure is a symbol of Brussels and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
  3. Antwerp: This charming Belgian city is known for its beautiful architecture and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

North-East is a treasure trove of cultural, historic, and natural attractions, with something to offer every traveler. With the help of this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to North-East with ease, and make the most of your visit to this beautiful part of Brussels.

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