Brussels in winter: special places to discover in the Belgian capital
Brussels may be known for its famous landmarks like the Grand Place and Manneken Pis (that’s the bronze statue of a young lad having a wee), but winter in this city reveals a more relaxed and cosy side. Here at 7 Places, we’re not here to tell you about the typical tourist stops — you’ve probably read about them already. Instead, we’re diving into the lesser-known spots, the gems that will make your winter trip to Brussels unforgettable. From musical treasures to cosy cafes, and the perfect place for a warming Belgian brew, let’s explore a side of Brussels that might just surprise you.
The 7 Places to discover in Brussels
1 | Visit the Musical Instruments Museum (MIM)
Beautiful Art Nouveau building that houses the MIM (Credit: Jean-Pol Grandmont, CC BY 3.0)
Start your day with a melodic twist at the Musical Instruments Museum. Housed in a striking Art Nouveau building, the MIM is home to one of the most extraordinary collections of musical instruments in the world. The interactive displays let you hear the sounds of these instruments, adding an extra layer of magic to the experience. And since it’s winter, the rooftop café is an ideal spot to warm up with a coffee, all while enjoying sweeping views of Brussels in the crisp winter air (please note that this cafe is currently being renovated, so do check to see whether the renovation has been completed).
Book online, €15 per adult, children are free
2 | Stroll through the Parc du Cinquantenaire
Big park in the heart of Brussels (Credit: DMR)
Even in the heart of winter, Parc du Cinquantenaire remains a beautiful place to explore. I grew up in Brussels and this is one of my favourite parks. With its grand Triumphal Arch (which reminds me a bit of Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate – check out our 7 Places guides to Berlin) and expansive green spaces, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the city. If the cold gets too much, you can step into the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History, which offers a fascinating insight into European history—a perfect winter day of both nature and culture. Or grab a beer at one of the nearby
3 | Lunch at Place Sainte-Catherine
Place Ste-Catherine (Credit: Zinneke, CC BY-SA 3.0)
As you head into the old docklands of Brussels, you’ll find Place Sainte-Catherine, a square that really comes into its own in the winter months. The area used to host the Brussels Fish Market and it retains its maritime charm through an abundance of seafood restaurants… so the scent of fresh seafood is still in the air (kind of). Grab a warming bowl of soup or some shrimp croquettes at Noordzee Mer du Nord, a bustling seafood bar that’s as atmospheric as it is delicious.
4 | Swan through the Galleries Royales Saint-Hubert
Stunning Galleries (Credit: KoS, CC BY-SA 3.0)
This 19th-century shopping arcade is stunning any time of year, but in winter it’s beautifully lit with festive decorations. Browse high-end boutiques or simply stroll under the glass roof, admiring the elegant architecture. It’s also a great place to escape the cold and do some people-watching from one of the many cafés.
5 | Visit Le Botanique’s indoor galleries
Le Botanique (Credit: Ben2~commons wiki assumed based on copyright claims, CC BY-SA 3.0)
This 19th-century botanical garden may be best known for its summer bloom, but don’t let that put you off in winter. Le Botanique transforms into a peaceful, contemplative space, and its indoor galleries frequently host art exhibitions and intimate concerts. It’s the perfect cultural escape from the busier parts of the city, offering a quieter, more reflective Brussels experience.
Prices vary for exhibitions and concerts, but start from €3
6 | Join a chocolate workshop and self-guided tour at Choco-Story
Belgium and chocolate are a match made in heaven, and there’s no better way to indulge than with a chocolate workshop and self-guided tour of the Choco-Stopry museum. Here, you’ll not only learn about the art behind creating these sweet treats, but you get to make your own chocolate lolly. It’s a fun, hands-on activity, and perfect for warming up on a chilly winter’s day.
Workshop and entry around €30 per adult
7 | Savour dinner at Les Brigitines
End your day with a hearty meal at Les Brigitines, a charming and characterful brasserie that specialises in traditional Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant, set in a former chapel, exudes warmth and comfort, making it an ideal winter dining spot. Expect dishes like slow-cooked meats, rich stews, and inventive takes on Belgian classics, all served in a rustic atmosphere. With its wooden beams and cosy lighting, Les Brigitines offers a more intimate dining experience, perfect for a relaxed and delicious evening in Brussels.
Not a cheap option with starters around €18 and mains at around €35
Your Brussels challenge | Try 10 different Belgian beers
Delirium Café has over 2000 beers to choose from (Credit: Jamie Lantzy, CC BY 3.0)
For every city we go to, we like to set a challenge for the more adventurous traveller. So, as Belgium is known for its beers, and Brussels is packed with spots where you can try local brews, this challenge is perfect (if you prefer not to drink alcohol, you could try to taste 10 different alcohol-free beers!). Head to Moeder Lambic or Delirium Café (this place has over 2000 beers to choose from!), and challenge yourself to taste 10 different Belgian beers (though you may want to do this over a couple of nights as Belgian beer can be extremely strong). This challenge is not as easy as it sounds with the variety and strength of Belgian ales. Make sure you pace yourself.
Challenge Rating: 2/3 (Fun but might leave you tipsy!)
Travel essentials: getting around Brussels
Brussels is compact and well-connected, making it easy to get around, even in winter. The city’s efficient metro, bus, and tram networks will take you to most major sights and neighbourhoods. From the airport, it’s just a quick 20-minute train ride to the city centre. If you prefer to walk, the city’s centre is highly walkable, though you might want to bundle up against the cold! If the weather gets particularly chilly, hopping on a tram is a cosy alternative.
Try to catch Brussels in the snow…
Brussels in winter has its own charm, especially if you’re seeking fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere. The city sparkles with festive lights, and the brisk air gives it an extra layer of cosiness. The best time to visit is between late November and February, when Brussels embraces its winter personality. If you’re lucky enough to catch the city in the snow, you’ll find it takes on an entirely new, magical feel. Winter in Brussels is an invitation to discover a quieter, yet no less beautiful, side of the city—one that you’ll remember long after you’ve left.
