Brussels with Kids | Best Things To Do | Where To Stay

Heading to Brussels with kids? You’re in for a treat! This city is a fantastic mix of history, culture, and modern vibes, offering great activities for the whole family. And since we know you want to make the most of your trip, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll guide you through the top things to do in Brussels with kids, such as visiting the impressive Atomium, seeing dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural Sciences, enjoying the wonders of Mini Europe, or having a blast at the Children’s Museum and Lego Discovery Center. With so many options, you won’t have a dull moment in this European capital.

So, buckle up and get ready for a memorable family adventure in Brussels! Here are the best things to do in Brussels with kids, and where to stay – with practical tips from a local!

In a Nutshell

• Best hotels
  • Best luxury hotel: Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo
  • Best midrange hotel: Novotel Brussels City Centre
  • Best budget hotel: Meininger Hotel in Brussels

• Get the Brussels City Card (free access to 49 museums, Atomium and public transport)

• Best museums
  • Book tickets to Atomium
  • Book tickets to Mini Europe
  • Book tickets to Choco-Story (interactive chocolate museum)

• Best workshops:
  • Book a chocolate workshop
  • Book a waffle workshop

• Best day trip: guided tour of Ghent and Bruges

Is Brussels Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely, Brussels is incredibly kid-friendly!

This city is jam-packed with cool stuff for everyone – think gorgeous squares, historic landmarks, hands-on museums, and awesome parks with playgrounds. And let’s not forget the mouth-watering treats like Belgian waffles, chocolates, and fries that you can enjoy together!

Picture your family checking out Europe’s famous landmarks at Mini Europe, discovering cool comic strip murals around the city, having fun at the Lego Discovery Center or being awestruck by the ginormous dinosaur skeletons in the Museum of Natural Sciences. Trust us, Brussels has got it all!

Best Time to Visit Brussels

Brussels has a temperate climate, featuring mild summers and cool winters. The city really comes to life between May and September, when you can enjoy outdoor activities and vibrant green spaces.

But if you prefer a quieter visit with fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April and October. You’ll still get to enjoy the city’s charm, just in a more relaxed atmosphere.

The city becomes a wonderland in December, with the vibrant Brussels Christmas market offering loads of fun for kids. With exciting rides, delicious treats, and a festive atmosphere, it’s a perfect place for families to create cherished holiday memories together.

Tip
It rains often (but usually not a lot, just a drizzle), so check the weather in advance and pack your rain coat!

How Long to Stay in Brussels

You can catch Brussels’s highlights in just one day, but if you want to take it easy and really soak up the city’s vibe, a 2-3 day trip is the way to go. This way, you’ll have more time to explore the top sights without feeling rushed.

With a longer stay in Brussels, you’ll also have the opportunity to embark on some fantastic day trips to nearby cities like Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent. These charming destinations are just a stone’s throw away, allowing you to explore even more of Belgium’s rich culture and history.

How to Get to Brussels

The city is well-connected with major European cities through its two international airports and train stations. The Eurostar offers a quick and easy train ride from London, Paris, and Amsterdam, making Brussels a convenient destination for a weekend getaway or as part of a European tour.

How to Get around Brussels

Brussels boasts an efficient public transportation system that includes trams, buses, and the metro.

Brussels: City Card with STIB Public Transportation

The Brussels City Card gives you access to 49 museums, Atomium and public transport.

Get the Brussels City Card here

Tip for locals
If you live in Belgium, MuseumPass gives you access to 225 museums for a year. You can get the MuseumPass here.

By Metro

The Brussels Metro is a modern and efficient subway system that serves the city and its suburbs. It has four main lines and is known for its reliability and speed. The metro is a convenient way to travel around Brussels, with frequent trains and connections to other forms of public transportation.

Good to know

• Closest metro to Grand Place is Gare Centrale metro stop, closest metro to Sainte-Catherine is Sainte-Catherine metro stop.
• Children under 6 travel by metro for free.

By Car

If you want to get around Brussels by car (which is not a good idea around the center due to traffic), we usually use this parking:
Interparking Brussels – Parking Grand Place
Rue du Marché Aux Herbes 104, 1000 Bruxelles

Where to Stay in Brussels with Kids

Accommodation in Brussels caters to families, with numerous hotels and apartments offering kid-friendly amenities and convenient access to the city’s attractions.

Staying in the city center or the European Union district ensures you’re within walking distance of many points of interest, while neighborhoods like Ixelles and Saint-Gilles offer a more local experience.

Best Hotels in Brussels for Families

Luxury

Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo is a well-located hotel, just 200 meters away from tManneken Pis statue. The hotel offers a gym and a restaurant.

See photos and availability here

Midrange

Novotel Brussels City Centre is a conveniently located hotel, only a 5-minute walk from the Grand Place and adjacent to a metro station. The hotel features an on-site spa center with a fitness facility and a small indoor swimming pool, providing relaxation and leisure options for guests. It is an excellent choice for families looking for a central base in Brussels.

See photos and availability here

Renaissance Brussels Hotel is near the Museum of Natural Sciences. Families can enjoy the indoor swimming pool, sauna, and fitness center. With its proximity to the EU Parliament and within a 20-minute walk to the Grand Place, this hotel offers a great base for exploring the city. Additionally, the availability of family rooms ensures comfortable accommodations for families.

See photos and availability here

Budget

Meininger Hotel in Brussels is housed within an old factory building. Located just 1.5 kilometers from Grand Place, the hotel provides a play area for kids, affordable rates, and family rooms, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers with children.

See photos and availability here

Visiting Brussels as a Day Trip

Brussels is a great city for a day trip, thanks to its compact size and efficient public transport. Arriving at Central Station or the Brussels-Capital Region’s other train stations, you can easily walk to many of the city’s top attractions.

Best Things to See in Brussels

No visit to Brussels is complete without a stop at the iconic Manneken Pis and the Grand Place, which serve as enduring symbols of the city’s history and charm. As you explore these landmarks, take the time to appreciate the intricate architecture and vibrant atmosphere that define the city’s identity.

1. Grand Place

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Place is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, featuring ornate guildhalls and the city’s Town Hall. A short walk from the central station, it’s a must-visit spot to start your Brussels adventure.

2. Royal Palace

During the summer months, the Royal Palace, which is NOT the official residence of the Belgian royal family, welcomes visitors. You can stroll through the lavish state rooms, learn about the history of the Belgian monarchy, and feast your eyes on the stunning art collection. It’s a great way to experience a bit of royal life!

The Royal Palace usually opens its doors to visitors from the last week of July through the entire month of August. And just in case you’re curious, the Belgian royal family actually resides in Laeken, at a palace that opens its Royal Greenhouses to the public every spring. So, you have a couple of opportunities to get a glimpse of royal life in Belgium!

Tip
Right in front of the Royal Palace, you’ll find Royal Park, which features a playground complete with baby swings and slides here. There’s also a kiosk offering drinks here, as well as a summer pop-up bar. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the heart of Brussels.

3. Atomium

A striking symbol of Brussels, the Atomium offers panoramic views of the city from its nine interconnected spheres. You’ll also find temporary exhibitions and a restaurant inside this architectural marvel.

Tip
Atomium is free with the Brussels City Card.

Book tickets to Atomium

Read more: Atomium with kids

4. Mini Europe

Located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini Europe is a fascinating park that features scale models of Europe’s famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Berlin Wall. It’s a fun way to explore the whole of Europe in a single day.

Book tickets to Mini Europe

5. Manneken Pis

This quirky bronze statue of a little boy urinating has become an iconic symbol of Brussels. Nestled in the city center on Rue de l’Etuve, it’s worth a quick visit to snap a photo and grab a Belgian waffle or some French fries from nearby vendors.

I’ve got to be honest with you – Manneken Pis is probably one of the most underwhelming landmarks out there! But since it’s super close to the Grand Place and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions, you can still swing by and snap a quick photo. It’s worth a visit just to say you’ve seen it!

Tip
Did you know there are more peeing statues in Brussels? Zinneke Pis is a dog 🙂
You can find the exact location here.

6. Comic Strip Museum & Comic Strip Route

The city’s vibrant art scene also extends to the world of comic books, with the Comic Strip Route and the Belgian Comic Strip Centre showcasing the rich history and artistic talent behind some of the world’s most famous characters. Fans of Tin Tin, the Smurfs, and other heroes will be delighted by these comic strips that are scattered throughout the city.

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is is free with the Brussels City Card.

The comic strips trail is the best way to motivate the little ones to walk around Brussels! You can find more info on the official site here.

7. European Quarter

Visiting the European Quarter in Brussels with kids can be an educational and fun experience.

The area is home to the European Parliament, where visitors can take guided tours to learn about the European Union. The Parlamentarium, the visitors’ center of the European Parliament, is worth a visit.

The European Quarter is also home to the Schuman roundabout, which features the iconic Berlaymont building, the headquarters of the European Commission.

Other attractions in the area include the House of European History, which offer interactive exhibits and workshops for children.

If you find yourself around Place Jourdan, don’t miss trying the famous fries at Maison Antoine! You can grab the fries at the cantine in the middle of the square and sit at one of the cafes with a sign that they accept fries. There are no cars for the most part, so this is a good place for families.

There are also several parks in the area where kids can run and play, such as Cinquantenaire Park and Leopold Park. You will find details on both parks further below,

8. Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts is a picturesque area in Brussels with great view. You can take in the stunning views of the city and explore the Musical Instruments Museum.

The gardens make it a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. There is no playground, but kids can enjoy the open spaces.

Le Carillon du Mont des Arts is a unique clock found on an arch in Mont des Arts, Brussels. This Jacquemart Carillon clock features 24 bells and 12 figurines that represent significant historic and folkloric figures of Brussels. You can admire the clock and its intricate design, which blends art and history seamlessly.

Fun Fact
The carillon is specifically crafted to play two alternating folk melodies each day – one Flemish and the other Walloon – reflecting the country’s linguistic diversity. It’s like a bilingual battle royale, but instead of fighting, French and Dutch just peacefully coexist on signs – and this clock!

Mont des Arts in Brussels has a cafe that’s perfect for a day out with the kids. The cafe offers indoor and outdoor seating, allowing you to take in the beautiful views while enjoying a meal or a snack. This place changes owners often, but the view remains the same!

Families with children will appreciate the space to move around outdoors and play, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed family outing. Note that there are stairs though, so this spot might be tricky with a toddler.

Best Activities with Kids in Brussels

Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

Unleash your inner chocolatier with this chocolate workshop in Brussels. Led by an experienced chocolatier, you’ll learn the art of tempering chocolate before crafting your own personalized chocolate bar and truffles using original chocolate from Haiti.

Along the way, discover the secrets of Belgian chocolate and sample different origin chocolates, including the famous ruby chocolate. Don’t forget to take home your delicious creations – and whatever you buy with the 10% discount you get for the shop.

Good to know
This is open to kids older than 6 years old.

Book this chocolate workshop

Waffle Workshop in Brussels

Get your hands sticky and learn the art of the Belgian waffle at a fun and tasty 1.5-hour waffle-making workshop in Brussels.

Perfect for families and foodies, this workshop provides all the ingredients, recipes, and kitchenware needed to create your own fluffy waffles.

With expert guidance and demonstrations, you’ll prepare the dough, bake the waffles, and then decorate them with cream, chocolate, honey, or fruit – the sky’s the limit!

Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned pro, this workshop is a must-try activity in Brussels. Plus, it’s an all-you-can-eat workshop!

Book this waffle workshop

Best Kid-Friendly Museums in Brussels

Brussels is packed with kid-friendly museums that’ll keep your young ones both entertained and engaged. Here are our favorite ones.

Locations of the museums that are easiest to reach, if you are short on time:

• Choco-Story, Illusion Brussels and Comic Strip Center are in the center very close to Grand Place.
• Museum of Natural Sciences and House of European History are in Park Leopold, close to the European Parliament.
• Autoworld and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces are in Park Cinquantenaire (neither is ideal for younger kids).
• The Children’s Museum and Train World are not in the city center, but are still some of the most fun things to do in Brussels with kids.

Let’s talk about what each museum offers.

Choco-Story

Calling all chocolate lovers! You’ve got to visit Choco Story, where you’ll embark on a tasty adventure through the history of chocolate.

Formerly known as the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate, this museum offers visitors a comprehensive look at the art of chocolate making.

Good to know
Choco-Story is free with the Brussels City Card.

Starting from its Mesoamerican roots to its grand arrival in Europe, Choco-Story is packed with interactive games, chocolate-making demos, and (our favorite part) scrumptious samples to enjoy.

One of the highlights of a visit to Choco-Story is the chance to watch skilled chocolatiers in action as they create mouth-watering treats right before your eyes. You can even try your hand at making your own chocolates in one of the museum’s workshops.

The location of this chocolate museum is pretty great as well, being just across from Manneken Pis. This means you can easily combine both attractions during your family adventure in the capital of Belgium, making for a fun and smooth day out.

Book tickets here

Read more: Choco-Story Brussels

Illusion Brussels

Looking for a mind-bending experience? Check out Illusion Brussels, a one-of-a-kind attraction that dives into the world of optical illusions and interactive exhibits. The whole family will be captivated by the fascinating displays that play with your perceptions and spark your imagination.

From mirror mazes to holograms, Illusion Brussels takes you on an unforgettable journey through the senses, making it a super fun addition to your Brussels itinerary.

And the best part? It’s right next to Grand Place! Perfect for kids aged 3 and up, this small but entertaining attraction offers a delightful break from sightseeing.

Read more: Illusion Brussels

Comic Strip Center

Brussels is renowned for its comic book heritage, with characters like Tintin and the Smurfs having originated here. The Comic Strip Route takes you on a journey through the city center, discovering colorful murals featuring beloved comic strip characters. Don’t forget to visit the Belgian Comic Strip Centre for a comprehensive look at the history and artistry of this fascinating medium.

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is is free with the Brussels City Card.

Museum of Natural Sciences

The Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences is a treasure trove of dinosaur skeletons, interactive displays, and exhibits all about biodiversity. Kids will absolutely love getting hands-on with the experiences and marveling at the museum’s amazing dinosaur gallery. It’s a real treat for the whole family!

The Museum of Natural Sciences is conveniently located near the House of European History, which we’ll talk about in a moment. Plus, there’s a cool playground in Parc Leopold nearby, complete with a sandpit, slides, and swings for the little ones to enjoy. It’s a great area for family fun!

Tip
The Museum of Natural Sciences is is free with the Brussels City Card.

Read more: Museum of Natural Sciences

House of European History

The House of European History, with its free entrance, offers a captivating and interactive journey through the continent’s rich history. One of the highlights for kids is the chance to dress up as astronauts!

Conveniently located in the same park as the Natural Sciences Museum, it’s a great spot to continue your day of exploration.

After visiting the museum, head over to the playground in Parc Leopold, where children can have fun at the sandpit, while parents enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the park’s lush greenery and lovely pond.

Read more: House of European History

Children’s Museum

The Children’s Museum is designed specifically for kids aged 4-12 and it offers interactive exhibits that focus on themes like emotions, communication, and creativity. This educational and fun-filled space encourages young minds to explore, learn, and play.

Read more: Children’s Museum

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces

The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces is a comprehensive museum that showcases Belgium’s military history through exhibits of weapons, uniforms, and vehicles. The highlight is the aviation hall, which features an impressive collection of aircraft, including a section dedicated to World War II.

Tip
The Royal Military Museum is is free with the Brussels City Card.

The best part for kids is that they can actually climb inside some of the aircrafts! It’s a super fun and interactive experience that’s sure to keep them entertained while learning about history.

Tip
This museum is situated in the lovely Cinquantenaire Park, where you’ll find a great playground with a sandpit for the kids to have fun. It’s a perfect place for families to unwind and enjoy some leisure time after checking out the museum.

Read more: Royal Museum of the Armed Forces

Autoworld

Autoworld is a great museum to visit with kids who love cars and transportation. Located in Brussels, the museum has vintage and modern cars on display, including iconic vehicles from movies and TV shows.

Autoworld is is free with the Brussels City Card.

Tip
Not being able to touch the cars can be frustrating for little kids. Take a look at the other museums of this list if you are visiting Brussels with toddlers!

Book tickets here

Read more: Autoworld

Train World

Train World is Located in the historic Schaerbeek train station. It is a fascinating museum that celebrates the history of the Belgian railways. With beautifully restored locomotives, interactive displays, and even a royal railway carriage, it’s a captivating experience for both young and old.

Train World is is free with the Brussels City Card.

Book tickets here

Read more: Train World

Parks and Playgrounds in Brussels

For a bit of outdoor fun, head to the city’s numerous parks and playgrounds, such as Parc du Cinquantenaire and Parc de Bruxelles. These green spaces provide the perfect backdrop for family picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply relaxing amidst nature.

When visiting the capital city of Belgium, you should definitely check out Royal Park, which is conveniently located right across from the Royal Palace. You’ll also find a tiny playground near St. Catherine.

And if you happen to be exploring the European Quarter, you can also drop by Park Cinquantenaire and Park Leopold for some more outdoor fun. They’re all easy to get to and worth a visit!

Royal Park (Parc de Bruxelles)

The city’s largest urban public park, Parc de Bruxelles is a green oasis amidst the bustling city center. With manicured gardens, fountains, and a playground, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind and enjoy nature.

Directly across from the Royal Palace, the lovely Royal Park awaits, boasting a playground equipped with baby swings, slides, and other fun equipment. It’s an ideal place for kids to enjoy themselves.

If you happen to get thirsty, there’s a kiosk selling drinks, along with a summer pop-up bar that appears every year during the warmer months. It’s an excellent spot to kick back and soak up the outdoor atmosphere right in the center of Brussels.

St. Catherine Playground

This little playground next to St. Catherine may be small, but it’s conveniently located next to some great cafés and restaurants like De Markten Café (offering tasty snacks) and Otomat pizza (with a beer suggestion for every pizza, and chili oil and olive oil in beer bottles!). Plus, you can treat yourself to some delicious ice cream from Gaston afterward, just on the other side of Sainte-Catherine!

Parents can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink while the kids have fun at the playground. It’s a win-win for everyone! Check out the exact location of the playground here. Ideally suited for kids aged 3-6 years, younger children might struggle with climbing the slide, and older kids may get bored quickly.

Cinquantenaire Park

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a vast public park in the heart of the city. It is perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. Don’t miss the iconic Triumphal Arch and the fascinating museums housed within the park, including Autoworld, Royal Military Museum, and the Art & History Museum.

In Cinquantenaire Park, you’ll find not just one, but two playgrounds to keep the kids entertained. The first features a massive sandpit with a dragon, perfect for imaginative play, while the smaller playground offers wood chips and a smaller play area.

Parc Leopold

Georges Henri Park

Georges Henri is a popular playgrounds among local families. With a variety of play structures, swings, and slides, these parks provide a safe and fun environment for children to enjoy the outdoors while their parents relax in the park’s green surroundings.

If you’re visiting the capital city of Brussels and short on time, this particular park will be out of the way from the main attractions. In that case, you can skip it and focus on the more central sights to make the most of your trip.

Read more: Georges Henri Park

Parc Malou

Parc Malou offers a great playground for all ages with a fenced area for younger kids. There used to be ponies there too.

If you’re on a tight schedule while visiting Brussels, this specific park will be off the beaten path from the primary attractions. You can pass on it and concentrate on the more centrally located sights to maximize your time in the city.

In casae you are wondering, the lady with the ponies is now in the Sonian forest. Read our post on Sonian Forest – Poney Riding.

Read more: Parc Malou

Best Kid-Friendly Cafes in Brussels

Brussels offers a variety of cafes that cater to families, providing kid-friendly menus, play areas, and a welcoming atmosphere. Some favorites include:

Le Wolf

A literary cafe that combines books, food, and fun, featuring a dedicated children’s bookshop and a cozy play area.

Chicago

Chicago is a family cafe that offers delicious organic food, a play corner for younger children. It’s a great place for both kids and adults.

Read more: Kid-Friendly Cafes in Brussels

Best Indoor Playgrounds in Brussels and Around

When the weather isn’t cooperating, indoor playgrounds in Brussels provide a fun escape for kids to burn off energy. Some of the top choices in and around Brussels are:

Lego Discovery Center

For fans of the iconic building blocks, the Lego Discovery Center Brussels is one of the best things to do with kids in Brussels. Filled with hands-on exhibits, interactive rides, and massive Lego sculptures, this wonderland is sure to spark creativity and inspire imaginations.

Don’t miss the 4D cinema, Lego-building workshops, and the opportunity to create your own unique Lego masterpiece.

Book tickets here

Read more: Lego Discovery Center Brussels

Baboes Centrum

Baboes is a free indoor play area offering soft play structures, and a dedicated baby zone centrally located near Parc de Bruxelles. It is only accessible to kids 0-4 years old.

Read more: Best Indoor Playgrounds in Brussels and around

Kojump Ixelles

A trampoline park offering hours of bouncing fun, Kojump Ixelles caters to kids of all ages, with dedicated zones for younger children and exciting challenges for older kids. With foam pits, dodgeball, and basketball areas, it’s a perfect rainy day activity.

Other trampoline parks in Brussels are Jump XL and Galaxy Jump.

Amusement Parks

Walibi

For thrill-seekers, the amusement park Walibi offers a fun-filled day for the whole family. Walibi features exciting roller coasters and is the closes theme park to Brussels.

Book tickets here

Read more: Walibi

Aqualibi

Aqualibi is an entertaining indoor water park located right next to Walibi. It’s packed with exciting water slides, a wave pool and it offers a fantastic area designed especially for kids. It’s a perfect place for a day of splashing fun for the whole family!

Book tickets here

Good to know
Oceade, another water park, is permanently closed.

Read more: Aqualibi

Farms for Kids in Brussels

Farm Maximilien is located in the heart of the city, Farm Maximilien is a charming urban farm that offers children the chance to interact with animals, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even participate in workshops.

Read more: Farm Maximilien

Best Provincial Domains near Brussels

Provincial domains are expansive parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to playgrounds and picnic areas. These are awesome for a family day out!

Read more: Best provincial domains near Brussels

De Schorre: Trolls Adventure

De Schorre is a recreational domain located in Boom, Belgium, offering a variety of outdoor activities and events for families to enjoy.

A delightful and eco-friendly attraction, De Schorre is home to a family of enchanting trolls created by the talented artist Dumbo.

These whimsical creatures, made from recycled materials, are scattered throughout the park, inviting you to embark on an exciting adventure to discover each one.

With its beautiful landscape, including lakes, forests, and open spaces, De Schorre is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors with the kids. The park features playgrounds, walking and cycling trails, and even an adventure park with rope courses and zip lines.

Good to know
One of the most famous events held at De Schorre is Tomorrowland, the world-renowned electronic dance music festival.

Read more: De Schorre

Provincial Domain Huizingen

Provincial Domain Huizingen is a fantastic spot that offers a pretty castle, playgrounds, walking trails, and mini cars for the kiddos to have fun with. And to top it all off, there’s a cozy café right next to the playgrounds, making it a perfect location for a family outing packed with entertainment and chill vibes.

Read more: Huizingen

Provincial Domain Hofstade

Provincial Domain Hofstade: Offering tons of playgrounds and a beach by the lake.

Read more: Hofstade

Yearly Events in Brussels

There are various events and attractions that make certain times of the year particularly appealing for families visiting Brussels.

Brussels Christmas Market

The city truly comes alive during the holiday season, making it an enchanting time for families to visit. The Brussels Christmas market is a real treat for kids and adults alike. Set against the backdrop of beautifully illuminated buildings and festive decorations, it creates a magical atmosphere.

Children will enjoy the various kid-friendly attractions, such as merry-go-rounds, ice-skating rinks, and a Ferris wheel. Parents can join in the fun or browse the market stalls for unique gifts and souvenirs. Be sure to sample some of the delicious treats on offer, like hot chocolate, mulled wine, and Belgian waffles.

With a wide array of entertainment and activities, the Brussels Christmas market is the perfect destination for families seeking holiday cheer and lasting memories.

Read more: Brussels Christmas Market

Carnival

During the Carnival season, the city comes alive with colorful parades, such as the one in the Marolles district, where festive floats and costumed performers enchant spectators.

Read more: Carnival Events in Belgium

Spring

This season is an ideal time to visit, with cherry blossoms adorning the city and events like Floralia taking place.

Don’t miss the stunning Hallerbos, famous for its bluebell-covered forest floor, or the vibrant displays at Meise Botanical Garden.

And while you might not think of Brussels when you hear “cherry blossoms”, did you know there are some amazing spots in the the city to enjoy them?

Read more: the best cherry blossoms spots in Belgium.

Brussels Jazz Festival

The Brussels Jazz Festival is a fantastic event for families with kids to enjoy a lively and entertaining musical atmosphere. Held annually in the heart of the city, this festival showcases a diverse range of jazz artists, both local and international, and offers performances in various venues across the city.

Read more: Brussels Jazz Festival

Halloween

Brussels, and Belgium in general, host numerous Halloween events for kids, from costume parties to themed attractions, making it a thrilling time for a family visit.

Read more: Halloween events in Belgium

Day Trips from Brussels

Brussels is the perfect base for exploring other captivating Belgian cities and attractions, such as:

Ghent

The historic city of Ghent offers a mix of stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and a lively food scene.

Book a day tour of Ghent and Bruges here

Read more: Ghent with Kids

Bruges

Often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is known for its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and charming atmosphere.

Book a day tour of Ghent and Bruges here

Antwerp

Famous for its diamond district, Antwerp also boasts impressive museums, shopping, and the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady.

Dinant

Nestled along the Meuse River, Dinant is a picturesque town with a rich history, a stunning citadel, and the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone.

Read more: Dinant with Kids

Namur

The capital of Wallonia, Namur is a charming city with a fascinating history, impressive architecture, and beautiful gardens.

Head up to the Citadel of Namur using a cable car, and then hop on the little train for a fun tour around the citadel.

There’s also a fantastic outdoor playground complete with jumping castles that kids are sure to love. It’s a great adventure for the whole family to enjoy!

Read more: Namur with Kids

Bouillon

Home to a stunning medieval castle and beautiful surrounding countryside, Bouillon is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Bouillon is a hidden treasure in Belgium that’s definitely worth a visit. With its stunning castle, numerous fantastic hiking trails, and a hanging bridge, it offers a mix of adventure and beauty that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Read more: Bouillon with Kids

Durbuy

Known as the smallest city in the world, Durbuy is a charming destination with picturesque streets, a beautiful castle, and a maze to explore.

What Is the Official Language of Brussels?

The official languages of Brussels are French and Dutch. Brussels is located in the central part of Belgium, which is a multilingual country with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.

The use of French and Dutch in Brussels reflects the city’s unique history and cultural diversity. French has traditionally been the dominant language in Brussels, as it was once a center of the French-speaking world during the 19th and 20th centuries. However, in recent years, the use of Dutch has also become more widespread, particularly in the northern part of the city.

Tip
Take a stroll through Brussels and you’ll see street names in both French and Dutch! Talk about a bilingual brain workout. And don’t even get me started on the movies, you’ll be reading subtitles in four different lines!

In addition to French and Dutch, many residents of Brussels also speak English, which is widely used as a second language for business and tourism. As a result, visitors to Brussels should have no problem communicating in English, especially in popular tourist areas and establishments.

FAQs

Brussels with Kids

When planning your visit to Brussels, be sure to include a mix of activities that cater to your family’s interests and preferences.

With so much to see and do, you’ll create lasting memories and deepen your connection with this vibrant and beautiful city.

Whether you’re exploring the hidden gems of the Belgian capital or enjoying a stroll through its parks, Brussels offers a wealth of experiences that make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable family holiday.

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