Welcome to my 2nd post in my Travel Tuesdays blog series! If you're more of a visual person, once you're done here, check out the corresponding video on YouTube.

Brussels is an often overlooked, and underrated European city, that is known for being the birth place of Art Nouveau architecture thanks to architects Victor Horta and Paul Hankar. It is also known for its delicious waffles, chocolate, and beer, all of which are a must when visiting the city. There are plenty of museums, art galleries, and other paid attractions to keep you and your family busy on your visit, but today we want to talk about a more budget friendly side of Brussels. So, without further adieu, I bring you my list of the top 6 Free Attractions in Brussels, starting with...

#6 Manneken-Pis 

Which translates to little man pee, is a small statue of a boy peeing, which also acts as a public fountain. This statue’s fame has grown over the years, and whether you are under or overwhelmed with your visit, it’s become a must see attraction in Brussels, if only for an Instagram photo-op. The original dated back to the 17th century, though the statue on display today is a replica. It is said to have been kidnapped and returned several times over the years, but much of its history is disputed. You can access this statue for free, day or night. 

#5 Saint Hubert Royal Galleries 

The Galeries is retail shopping centre housed in a beautiful Renaissance style arcade that was built in the 1800’s. The roof is glass, and in the past was known as the umbrella of Brussels, and the architecture is quite impressive. Visit The Galeries to take in its beauty and stay for its many retail stores, chocolate shops, restaurants, art galleries, and so much more! You can even take in a movie at its in house cinema. If you have a rainy day in Brussels, this would be the perfect place to spend it, but any day is a good day for some retail therapy. 

#4 Parc Du Cinquantenaire

It was built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgium independence in 1880. The park is filled with gardens and surrounded by beautiful architecture, most notably the triumphal arch. This is a wonderful place to just relax and enjoy some fresh air, away from the busy city center, but it is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year. Access to the park is free, and it is open at anytime, but it is fenced and there are always guards on duty. For another view of the triumphal arch, consider taking it in from outside the park, as this affords you a unique view of the tunnel that runs beneath it all. 

#3 Cathedral of St Michael & St Gudula

You won’t want to miss seeing this beautiful cathedral that took 300 years to build and dates back to the 11th century. Its current structure was built in the 11th century Brabantine Gothic style, but the old church underneath, was built in the 10th century Romanesque style. The cathedral is named for its chapel that is dedicated to St Michael and because it houses the remains of St gudula. You can explore the main parts of the cathedral, with all its stained glass, paintings, and statues, for free, but if you wish to check out the archeological site you’ll have to pay a euro. In addition, if you wish to check out the crypt you will have to pay 3 euros and it is by appointment only. The cathedral is open Monday - Friday from 7am to 6pm, Saturday from 8am to 5pm, and on Sunday from 1pm to 6pm. 

#2 Mont Des Arts

Mont Des Arts translates to Hill of the Arts, and is an important cultural site in Brussels. It includes the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium, the Square – Brussels Meeting Centre, and a public garden. It affords you wonderful views of the city, and is a relaxing place to enjoy a morning or afternoon stroll. Within this area you have easy access to the Museum of Musical Instruments, Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Royal Palace and Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula. As this is a public space, you can access this area for free, day or night. 

#1 Grand-Place Square

This UNESCO World Heritage site sits in the heart of Brussels and is one of its most popular spots for tourists. The square is surrounded by stunning gothic and baroque style architecture that draws thousands of tourists a day, to marvel at its beauty. There are many shops, restaurants, and cafes in this area, making is convenient to grab a bite to eat, a cup of coffee, or a beer. Just be aware that prices here are much higher than those outside the city center, as is true in most touristy areas. The square is close to many of the city’s main attractions and can be accessed day or night for free. 

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