What to do in Brussels? Top 20 activities to try

Are you wondering what to do in Brussels next weekend? Great news: the Belgian capital is a goldmine for unique days out. From quirky museums and colourful markets to immersive experiences and buzzing neighbourhoods, there's always something cool to discover. Whether you're with your mates, family or colleagues for a team building, this guide to activities to discover in Brussels is made for you.

We've picked the top 20 things you absolutely have to experience. From classic must-sees to truly out-of-the-ordinary experiences. Let's go!

Quiz Room Brussels: the immersive team quiz

If you're looking for a really fun and original activity, Quiz Room is THE spot to try first. Here, the quiz takes on a whole new dimension: you're not sitting alone with your smartphone answering questions. You're in a team, with a buzzer in hand, in an atmosphere worthy of the greatest TV game shows.

The experience takes place in teams, with varied questions on general knowledge, music, film and loads of other topics. The atmosphere is electric, you completely let go of everything, and you laugh from start to finish. It's the kind of outing everyone is still talking about weeks later.

Whether you come with friends, with family or colleagues for a team building session, the Quiz Room Brussels is designed to bring people together and have fun just like on TV. Perfect for a birthday or an unforgettable evening. Are you planning a work outing instead? Check out our Brussels team building.

Exploring the underground passages of the Coudenberg Palace

Beneath the Place Royale lies a well-kept secret: the ruins of the Coudenberg Palace, residence of the Dukes of Brabant and the Habsburg emperors. A fascinating underground visit that takes you straight back to the Middle Ages.

The place is truly impressive, with its well-preserved medieval galleries and well-put-together explanations. One of the Brussels activities the most original for curious minds who love history.

Try a Rage Room to let off steam

Need to let off some steam? A rage room is the ideal activity. You put on a protective suit and go wild smashing objects with a sledgehammer. Super liberating, great fun, and perfect for a stag or hen do or a night out with mates that's a bit out of the ordinary.

There are several places in Brussels where you can try this out. It has become one of the activities to discover in Brussels for those who want to do something a little different.

Visit the Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums

René Magritte, the master of Belgian surrealism, has his very own museum on the Place Royale. One of the must-see visits if you want to understand the artistic soul of Belgium. The collections of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts complement the visit perfectly.

What to visit in Brussels in terms of culture? This museum duo is clearly in the top 5. Allow at least 2 hours to see everything properly.

Relax in a beer spa

Yes, you read that right. In Brussels, you can soak in a bath of locally brewed beer. Beer spas are a trend that originated in the Nordic countries and has really taken off in the Belgian capital.

It's a surprising, relaxing and genuinely funny experience to tell people about. One of the things to do in Brussels most unusual activities for a day out as a couple or with friends.

Go out to an unusual bar or a quirky club

Brussels nightlife is a real adventure. From cocktail bars hidden in cellars to pubs with giant board games and clubs that keep you dancing until the early hours, there is no shortage of options.

The Saint-Géry neighbourhood and the streets around Rue de la Fourche are perfect for an evening that starts off gently before picking up pace. If you're wondering what to do in Brussels in the evening, the answer is simple: explore these little streets and let yourself be surprised.

Browsing the Marolles flea market

Every morning, the Place du Jeu de Balle in the Marolles neighbourhood transforms into a huge open-air flea market. Vinyl records, vintage crockery, retro clothing, designer furniture... you can find all sorts, and often for very little.

It's a quintessentially Brussels activity, loved by locals and visitors alike. A must if you want to see what Brussels has to offer when it comes to real neighbourhood life.

Admiring street art in Saint-Gilles

The Saint-Gilles neighbourhood has become one of the most vibrant street art spots in Belgium. Its facades have been transformed into open-air galleries, with works by local and international artists.

A stroll around this neighbourhood is completely free and always full of surprises. Perfect for a relaxed, creative outing with friends or family.

Wandering around the Midi Market on a Sunday

The Midi Market is one of the largest markets in Europe. On Sunday mornings, the Midi train station and its surroundings welcome hundreds of stalls overflowing with spices, exotic fruits, cheeses, olives and specialities from around the world.

The atmosphere is incredible, the mix of cultures is striking and the prices are really affordable. A classic among Brussels activities to start your Sunday on the right foot.

Discovering the Japanese Tower and the Chinese Pavilion

Located in Laeken, in the gardens of the royal estate, the Japanese Tower and the Chinese Pavilion are two truly unexpected landmarks in Brussels. These two buildings, constructed at the beginning of the 20th century, are an unexpected journey to Asia without leaving the capital.

It is one of the most original visits for things to do in Brussels with children or to surprise visitors who already know the classics.

Spending time at the Ferme du Parc Maximilien

The Ferme du Parc Maximilien is an urban farm right in the heart of Brussels. You can meet animals, take part in workshops, discover permaculture and enjoy a truly restorative green space.

It's a perfect activity for families with young children and for anyone who wants a green escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Spotting the Jeanneke-Pis and the quirky statues

Everyone knows the Manneken-Pis, but did you know he has a little sister? The Jeanneke-Pis, tucked away in a dead end off the Rue des Bouchers, is far less crowded and just as charming. There is also the Zinneke Pis, a dog this time...

Hunting down these quirky statues is a real game of discovery through the back streets of the city centre. A fun and free way to explore Brussels at your own pace.

Going up the Atomium for a view over Brussels

The Atomium is the symbol of modern Brussels. This steel structure representing an enlarged iron crystal is visible from far away and is well worth a visit from the inside. The temporary exhibitions there are always interesting, and the view from the upper spheres is truly impressive.

For a visit brussels memorable with some really striking photos, it's an absolute must.

Strolling around the Grand-Place and its side streets

Brussels' Grand-Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. Its golden facades are breathtaking, especially in the evening when the lighting really shows everything off. The surrounding streets are full of shops, restaurants and little surprises.

If you're wondering what to do in Brussels in just one hour, start here. It's free, magnificent and not to be missed.

Visiting the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Opened in 1847, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert were the first covered shopping arcade in Europe. Today, they're home to artisan chocolate shops, bookshops, jewellers and chic cafés.

A stroll under this monumental glass roof is a real treat, whatever the weather. It's also the perfect place to pick up a box of Belgian pralines to take home.

Taking in the view from the Mont des Arts

The Mont des Arts offers one of the most stunning panoramic views over Brussels. From the top of the hill, you can take in the city's rooftops, the royal palace and the well-kept gardens. It's also a cultural hub with several museums just a stone's throw away.

A perfect spot for a break between visits. And it's free too!

Go for a stroll in the Cinquantenaire Park

The Cinquantenaire Park is one of the most majestic green spaces in Brussels. Its triumphal arch, museums and tree-lined paths make it a perfect place to stroll, have a picnic or go cycling.

The museums surrounding the park (Art and History, Autoworld, the Army Museum) are also a great option for a brussels visit that's both cultural and family-friendly.

Discover the Sablon neighbourhood and its galleries

The Sablon is Brussels' chic and bohemian neighbourhood. Antique dealers, art galleries, luxury chocolate shops and lively terraces sit side by side in a unique atmosphere. At the weekend, an antiques market takes over the Place du Grand Sablon.

It's the ideal place for things to do in brussels when you're looking for a night out that's both elegant and relaxed.

Visit Train World for a unique day out

Train World, located in Schaerbeek, is Belgium's national railway museum. Inside, historic locomotives, vintage carriages and immersive settings tell the story of 175 years of Belgian railways.

It's one of the activities to discover in Brussels that will genuinely surprise you, even if you're not a train enthusiast to begin with. The scenography is really well thought out and the experience is completely immersive.

Try Belgian Beer World and its rooftop

Located on the Grand-Place, Belgian Beer World is the interactive museum dedicated to Belgian beer. You'll learn all about breweries, hops and brewing traditions, with tastings included.

But the real bonus is the rooftop with a direct view over the Grand-Place. It's one of the most incredible views in the city and a fun way to wrap up your visit to Brussels.

Whether you have a single day or a full weekend, what to do in Brussels will never be a question without an answer. The city is generous, diverse and always ready to surprise you. And if you want to enjoy a truly memorable immersive experience in Brussels, we can't wait to welcome you to Quiz Room Brussels for a session of quiz immersive fun with buzzers and good vibes guaranteed!

FAQ: Brussels, we answer your questions

What should you visit in Brussels in one day?

In one day, start with the Grand-Place and the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert in the morning. Head to the Magritte Museum or the Atomium in the afternoon. And to round off the evening in style, book a session at the Quiz Room for an unforgettable immersive gaming experience with your mates. For a full programme, take a look at our guide to visiting Brussels.

What are the 10 must-do things in Brussels?

The 10 must-dos: the Grand-Place, the Atomium, the Magritte Museum, the Galeries Saint-Hubert, the Midi market, the Sablon, the Cinquantenaire park, Train World, Belgian Beer World