OCT – Brussels – Barks Abroad

Brussels has been the de facto capital of the European Community (and now European Union) for decades, and for a good reason.

The city’s gothic and baroque style squares, set between medieval streets, are the playgrounds of international politicians and adventurous tourists alike

Tourists can visit the historic Palais Royal, once home to the Belgian royal family, before climbing to the top of the Palais de Justice.

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum, take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop.

Just don’t forget to pay a visit to Brussels’ favorite little fountain, the Manneken Pis, to see what fashion the little statue is sporting.

Volunteering with dog related organizations is a wonderful way to help out while you visit this country. Check out the following links for detailed information to make a difference locally! Use Google Translate for the entire website if needed.

Help Animals

DIsclaimer: Barks Abroad has not vetted, endorses, nor guarantee these organizations or their work.

Carbonade flamande: a Belgian beef stew, similar to the French Beef Bourguignon, but made with beer instead of red wine. Served with bread or fries and mustard. Usually accompanied by a beer.

This is also considered one of the national dishes, along with moules-frites.

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The best time to visit Brussels is between March and May and September and October, the shoulder seasons; this is when room rates are cheaper and fewer crowds clog the top attractions.

This city also experiences all four seasons, and rain is a possibility year-round. Average highs range from about 40 degrees in winter to 70 degrees in summer.

Belgium is a compact country where everything is just a short drive away.

Go to the medieval town of Brugge or visit the bustling capital of Brussels. Paris, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Cologne are all within driving distance from wherever you are in Belgium.

Traffic travels on the right and streetcars always have the right of way. Many Belgian roads have heavily traveled bike lanes, so be careful

Brussels has 19 main municipalities, but the most important tourist attractions are to be found in the following Brussels’ neighborhoods: Brussels-City, Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, Schaerbeek, and Koekelberg.

The Metro in Brussels lets you explore the sights easily though, so finding the best area to stay in Brussels mainly depends on your personal preference and budget.