I know I know I've been all quiet again but this time with good reason. I thought what better what to beat the January blue than a little European adventure. So I spent the last weekend of January in Brussels aka the chocolate capital!
Right lets get the ball rolling with all things Brussels related starting with things to do and see...
- Grand Place is the main square but is home to the town hall, such beautiful buildings and architecture
-The Atomium...about 20 mins from main centre by metro. So easy to get to and only cost 2.10euro per trip. The atomium is massive building that is formed of a number of spheres. I'd recommned going inside and looking around, especially to experience the views from the top.
-Mini Europe...this is placed at the bottom of the Atomium (TIP- you can buy a combined entrance ticket) I really was looking forward to visiting this little tiny village home to miniature famous landmarks across Europe however when I got there I found out that it is closed during the winter (any excuse to go back hey!)
- Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Such a beautiful building both inside and out.
- Royal Palace... a place to relive those "I wish I were a disney princess" moments
- Cathedral of St Michael & St Gudula, again another beautiful religious building
Food:
Peck 47 - great cafe for brunch and sandwiches or salads. Yummy cakes!
Chi Chi - fabulous Mexican restaurant. Amazing cocktails, plus live music on Friday & Saturday night
Drug Opera - dessert heaven! The decor inside reminds me of an old Paris tea room
WAFFLES!!! Waffles are everywhere in Brussels, the smell takes over but always draws in you. So cheap as well and a million percent worth it
Chocolate - now what would a trip to Belgium be without stocking up on their chocolate. Literally every road has a chocolate shop on, I spent majority of my trip thinking why isn't everyone over here obese with all this delicious chocolate available. I managed to buy 5 boxes of truffles for the bargain price of 10euro!!
MIM - Brunch with a view?! Who can resist a rooftop restaurant.
Top Tips:
- all shops are closed on a Sunday so no shopping sprees I'm afraid
- rather than get a taxi to the city centre you can get a train direct from the train station. Takes roughly 15 mins and its around 8 euro per person one way
- accommodation...I'd recommend staying at one of the Thorn hotel chains. All within the city centre and all very reasonably price