Brussels is calling this summer: book before June 30 and enjoy 15% off your August stay!
Brussels is one of those European capitals that works beautifully with children: compact, walkable, playful and full of small surprises. In August, the city takes on a softer rhythm, making it especially pleasant for families visiting from abroad. Between comic book murals, hands-on museums, leafy parks, chocolate shops, waffles and easy day trips, Brussels offers the perfect mix of culture, fun and indulgence. From a central base such as Hôtel des Galeries, families can explore much of the historic centre on foot. Here is our little guide to enjoying Brussels with kids this summer.
Brussels in August has a deliciously relaxed rhythm. The locals disappear toward the seaside, the terraces stretch across cobblestone streets, and the city suddenly feels lighter, slower, and wonderfully family friendly. Nestled inside the elegant Galerie du Roi, Hôtel des Galeries offers the perfect base for parents looking to combine culture, comfort, waffles, and the occasional strategic ice cream stop.
The beauty of Brussels with kids lies in its simplicity. Distances are short, museums are playful, parks are everywhere, and there is always a café nearby when morale needs immediate restoration.
From Hôtel des Galeries, families can explore the historic center entirely on foot. Comic book murals appear around every corner, chocolate shops become mini adventures, and the city’s elegant atmosphere somehow still leaves plenty of room for children to be children.
Staying at Hôtel des Galeries places families directly in the heart of Brussels, within walking distance of many of the city’s best attractions for children and parents alike.
Start with the legendary Grand Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares. Children may not immediately admire the Flemish guild houses, but they will absolutely enjoy the giant open space and lively atmosphere. Just nearby, the famous Manneken Pis offers exactly the kind of tiny absurdity children tend to find hilarious.
For a more immersive cultural stop, the Comic Art Museum is essential. Belgium’s comic heritage comes alive through Tintin, the Smurfs, Spirou, and beautifully designed interactive exhibits that appeal to every generation.
A stroll through the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, directly connected to Hôtel des Galeries, is equally magical. The glass-roofed arcade feels cinematic in the soft August light, especially when punctuated by stops for Belgian chocolates or waffles.
Traveling with children is often just a sophisticated form of snack management. Fortunately, the area around Hôtel des Galeries is filled with elegant yet relaxed places where both parents and children feel instantly comfortable.
For a long brunch or easy lunch near Mont des Arts, Restaurant Albert is an excellent choice. Overlooking the city with one of Brussels’ most beautiful panoramic terraces, it offers a refined but accessible atmosphere perfect for slow summer afternoons with family.
Just a short stroll from Hôtel des Galeries, Galerie Bortier makes for a wonderfully refined gourmet stop: beneath its glass roof, among bookshops, period woodwork and beautifully curated food counters, families can nibble their way through the day in one of Brussels’ most atmospheric covered arcades.
Meanwhile, Le Pain Quotidien offers large communal tables, organic dishes, and a calm atmosphere ideal for families exploring the city center.
No family trip to Brussels would be complete without dessert. A stop at Maison Dandoy for traditional Belgian waffles and speculoos biscuits feels almost mandatory. Nearby chocolate houses such as Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini transform simple snack breaks into fully respectable cultural experiences.
Families spending several days at Hôtel des Galeries should absolutely explore beyond the historic center. Brussels is compact and easy to navigate, making day trips surprisingly stress free.
One of the most beloved summer escapes is Bois de la Cambre, the city’s vast urban park where locals gather for picnics, bike rides, and lazy afternoons under the trees. In the middle of the lake sits the charming Chalet Robinson, accessible by a tiny ferry crossing that children tend to consider the highlight of the day before lunch has even arrived.
For something more futuristic, the Atomium remains a must see for families visiting Brussels. Its giant silver spheres and panoramic views continue to fascinate children and adults alike. Nearby, Mini Europe allows families to “visit” the entire continent in a single afternoon, which feels both educational and impressively efficient.
Families staying a full week in Brussels may also enjoy a day trip to Pairi Daiza, one of Europe’s most spectacular zoological parks. Giant pandas, immersive gardens, and beautifully designed habitats make it feel more like a cinematic adventure than a traditional zoo.
And if Belgian weather decides to become dramatically Belgian for a day, indoor favorites like the Natural Sciences Museum and Train World provide the perfect rainy day alternative.
Family travel does not have to mean sacrificing elegance, calm, or beautiful surroundings. That is precisely what makes Hôtel des Galeries such a unique address in Brussels.
After long August days exploring parks, museums, comic book streets, and waffle shops, returning to the peaceful atmosphere of Hôtel des Galeries feels wonderfully restorative. The hotel combines understated Belgian elegance with an ideal central location, allowing families to experience Brussels at their own rhythm.
Because the best family vacations are not only about seeing a city. They are about enjoying it together, preferably with chocolate nearby.
Planning a summer trip to Europe and wondering if Brussels is worth a stop? The answer is simple: yes, especially if you know how to experience it right.
Compact, walkable, and full of character, Brussels is one of those cities that reveals itself slowly. In just three days, you can explore historic landmarks, discover hidden gems, enjoy incredible food and drinks, and still find time to unwind.
Here’s how to spend 3 perfect days in Brussels, with a mix of must-sees, local favorites, and unique experiences.
Start where every visit should begin: the Grand Place, often considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Surrounded by ornate guild houses, it’s the heart of the city — and the perfect introduction.
Just steps away, you’ll find Maison Grand Place, an exceptional venue that reflects the elegance and heritage of the area. It’s a reminder that in Brussels, history and modern experiences often go hand in hand.
From there, wander into the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert, one of Europe’s oldest covered shopping arcades. Split into three sections — the Galerie de la Reine, du Roi, and des Princes — they offer a refined, almost cinematic atmosphere.
Take your time here:
This is Brussels at its most authentic: elegant, slightly understated, and full of hidden layers.
Brussels is a food city — and not just for waffles and fries (though you should absolutely try both).
For a more local and curated experience, head to Galerie Bortier, a lesser-known passage that blends books, food and culture in a unique way. It’s the kind of place you don’t find in guidebooks, but remember long after your trip.
Later in the day, make your way to one of the city’s best-kept secrets: rooftop Albert, located at the top of the KBR (Royal Library of Belgium).
Recently made even more accessible thanks to a newly installed elevator, this rooftop offers:
It’s an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring — and a great example of how Brussels blends heritage with contemporary lifestyle.
One of the surprises for many first-time visitors is how green Brussels is.
For a change of pace, head to the Bois de la Cambre, a vast park just outside the city center. In the middle of the lake sits Chalet Robinson, a charming restaurant accessible by a small ferry.
This is where Brussels slows down:
It’s a perfect way to balance your trip — combining urban exploration with a touch of nature.
This is a common question for American travelers, and an important one.
The answer: yes, especially in the city center or the south/east of the city.
Brussels is a relatively small capital, and its central neighborhoods are:
Like any major city, basic awareness is recommended, but overall, it’s a safe and accessible destination, particularly for first-time visitors.
To make the most of your trip, location matters.
Staying in the center allows you to:
For travelers looking for something more personal than a standard hotel, Hôtel des Galeries offers a unique alternative.
Located directly within the Royal Galleries, it combines:
Whether you’re here for a city break, a cultural trip or even a business stay, it places you right at the heart of Brussels — where the city truly comes alive.
Brussels may not always be the first city on a European itinerary: but that’s exactly what makes it special.
It’s authentic without trying too hard.
Refined without being formal.
And full of experiences that feel both local and memorable.
In three days, you won’t just visit Brussels.
You’ll understand it — and probably want to come back.
Choosing a hotel in Brussels is not just about comfort. Location shapes the entire experience. And in a city like Brussels—compact, walkable and full of contrasts—staying in the city centre transforms the way you experience it.
Whether you’re visiting for business, a city break or a longer stay, choosing a hotel in Brussels city centre allows you to experience the city more fully, more freely, and with far less friction.
It’s often the first question travellers ask.
The answer is simple: everything becomes easier.
From the centre, Brussels unfolds naturally:
But beyond convenience, there’s something more valuable: immersion.
You’re not just passing through the city—you’re part of it.
Absolutely—and it’s one of the best ways to discover the city.
Staying in a hotel for visiting Brussels in the centre means you can:
The historic centre is compact, lively and full of character. Within minutes, you can move from a bustling street to a quiet square, from a museum to a terrace.
Brussels is a city best experienced on foot.
This is when the city reveals a different energy.
After a day of meetings or sightseeing, the pace softens—but the experience continues.
Just a short walk away, rooftop Albert, located at the top of the KBR (Royal Library of Belgium), offers a unique perspective on the city. This panoramic restaurant, set on the fifth floor, combines contemporary design with stunning views over Brussels.
Thanks to a recently installed external lift, access is now seamless—making it an ideal spot to extend your evening, whether for a relaxed lunch, a drink or a private event.
A simple way to experience Brussels from above, without leaving the city centre.
In the centre, hotels are far from interchangeable.
A boutique hotel in Brussels or a charming hotel offers a more distinctive approach:
Often located in historic buildings, these hotels provide a more intimate and authentic experience.
You’re not just booking a room—you’re choosing a place with character.
Brussels is both a European capital and a surprisingly manageable city.
Staying in a city hotel in Brussels centre allows you to optimise your time while maintaining a high quality of life.
Your day remains structured and efficient.
In the evening, everything is within reach:
This balance is what turns a business trip into a more rewarding experience.
It’s a question more and more companies are asking.
Today, a hotel is no longer just a place to stay—it becomes a hub for:
Within walking distance of Hôtel des Galeries, venues such as the Théâtre du Vaudeville, a beautifully restored historic theatre, offer a unique setting for corporate events—combining heritage with a contemporary feel.
Maison Grand Place offers another exceptional setting, hosting events in one of Brussels’ most iconic locations. Its upper floors also feature brand-new meeting rooms, providing a prestigious environment to seamlessly combine business meetings and private dinners.
Some of these venues also offer accommodation solutions, creating a seamless and fully integrated experience.
This is where collaborations with partners like Choux de Bruxelles or Witlof bring real added value.
Staying in the centre is not only about saving time.
It’s also about gaining freedom.
The freedom to decide, at the last minute:
No planning, no constraints.
This flexibility completely changes the way you experience your stay.
Unsurprisingly, the city centre remains the most obvious choice.
It brings together everything that defines Brussels:
A hotel in Brussels city centre gives you immediate access to all of it—without compromise.
Staying in the centre of Brussels means choosing a richer, smoother and more immersive experience.
Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business or an event, the city centre offers a unique concentration of experiences.
From rooftops like Albert to exceptional venues such as the Vaudeville and Maison Grand Place, combined with characterful hotels, everything is in place to turn a simple stay into something more memorable.
Because Brussels is not just a city to visit.
It’s a city to experience—fully—right at its heart ❤️
Business travel in Brussels doesn’t have to end when your meetings do. In fact, the city is perfectly designed for “bleisure travel”—where business and leisure seamlessly connect.
By extending your stay by just 24 hours, you can turn a corporate trip into a more meaningful and memorable experience. Here’s how to make the most of your evening after 6pm in Brussels, and more.
As the workday ends, Brussels reveals a softer, more atmospheric side. The historic centre becomes quieter, more intimate—ideal for unwinding after a day of meetings or conferences.
Start with a walk through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, right outside Hôtel des Galeries. This iconic landmark offers a refined transition between business and leisure, combining heritage, architecture and subtle elegance.
Just a few minutes away, the Grand Place shines in the evening light—an essential stop for any business traveller staying in Brussels city centre.
If your schedule didn’t allow for cultural visits during the day, the evening offers a second chance.
The Cinquantenaire district, just a short ride away, is home to several of Brussels’ most important museums. From art and history to design, classic cars and heritage, these institutions offer a deeper understanding of the city—ideal for international visitors combining business and culture.
Even a short visit can add a meaningful layer to your stay.
After a full day, the ideal is to enjoy dinner with ease, without compromising on quality or atmosphere.
Near Cinquantenaire, Bagnole Brasserie offers a lively, relaxed setting surrounded by exceptional automobiles—perfect for dinner with colleagues or clients in a refined yet informal atmosphere.
For a dinner that feels both elegant and welcoming, Le Mess in Etterbeek is a natural choice. Housed in a former officers’ mess and easily accessible from the city centre, it provides a contemporary setting that is perfectly suited to business dinners and corporate gatherings… as well as private celebrations.
Brussels offers countless places for a final drink—whether you prefer a discreet cocktail bar, a curated wine selection, or a modern take on Belgian beer culture.
For many business travellers, this moment becomes the highlight of the day: a space to unwind, reflect, or continue conversations in a more relaxed setting.
The rise of bleisure travel in Europe reflects a broader shift in how we approach business trips. Professionals are increasingly looking for balance—combining productivity with experience.
Brussels is particularly well suited to this. The city centre is compact, walkable, and rich in high-quality experiences that require little planning—ideal for short business stays, corporate travel or executive trips.
Location is key. Staying centrally allows you to move effortlessly between meetings, dining, and cultural experiences.
Located in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Hôtel des Galeries offers an elegant and strategic base for business travellers in Brussels. It combines comfort, character and immediate access to the best the city has to offer.
A corporate trip doesn’t have to feel rushed or purely functional.
By extending your stay by just one evening, you allow yourself to experience Brussels differently—more personally, more meaningfully.
The city is yours.
Just steps away from the Grand Place, certain addresses invite you to slow down without even trying.
Kawa Club is one of them.
More than just a coffee shop, it’s a place to settle in, unwind, and let time drift by.
Whether you’re working for a few hours, getting lost in a book, or meeting friends, the atmosphere immediately makes you want to stay.
Kawa Club is tucked inside Galerie Bortier, one of Brussels’ most beautiful 19th-century covered passages, renowned for its independent bookshops and timeless architectural charm.
The interior perfectly complements its surroundings: deep bottle-green walls, warm wood accents, plush club armchairs, and a bright, inviting salon. It feels like stepping into an old English bookshop transformed into an elegant coffee house. Calm, cosy, and effortlessly refined — the kind of place where you lose track of time.
At Kawa Club, coffee is taken seriously. A precisely crafted espresso, a perfectly textured flat white, a silky latte, or a delicate matcha — each cup is prepared with care using carefully roasted, high-quality beans.
Behind the counter, homemade pastries complete the experience. Generous slices of banana bread, velvety cheesecakes, still-warm cookies… The portions are comforting and indulgent — ideal for a leisurely gourmet pause rather than a quick coffee on the go.
Already present at FOX Food Market, Kawa Club can now also be found at RATZ, the new trendy urban food market in Ixelles.
A well-deserved expansion that confirms its status as a go-to destination for lovers of specialty coffee and thoughtfully crafted sweets.
Brussels has a rare gift: the ability to make winter shine.
As days grow shorter and temperatures drop, the city doesn’t fade — it lights up.
A façade comes alive. A park begins to sparkle. An entire square turns into a work of art.
From 12 to 15 February 2026, the capital celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Bright Brussels Festival, its signature winter event dedicated to light and creativity.
For four magical evenings, the historic city centre becomes an open-air gallery. You don’t simply visit Brussels — you rediscover it, step by step, eyes drawn upward.
More than 20 light artworks, created by Belgian and international artists, transform the city into a vibrant canvas. Monumental projections on historic façades, giant light sculptures, interactive installations and immersive sound-and-light creations — every corner reveals a new surprise. Time slows down naturally. You walk simply for the pleasure of looking.
Bright Brussels is more than a visual journey.
It’s also a warm, convivial experience, with a market showcasing creative finds, kids’ activities for younger visitors, and a food area perfect for a delicious break between installations.
Mulled wine, steaming hot chocolate and comforting street food invite you to linger and warm up as the evening unfolds.
After several kilometres of exploring illuminated Brussels, the most pleasant moment arrives: heading back to warmth and calm.
Tucked away in the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, just steps from the light trail, Hôtel des Galeries offers an intimate, welcoming retreat in the very centre of the city.
Natural wood, soft lighting and a hushed atmosphere create the perfect cocoon after an evening wandering through a glowing Brussels.
From here, everything is within walking distance. Step out, explore — then return to the quiet comfort of your room.
Bright Brussels lasts only a few nights — just like the most beautiful moments.
For one weekend, the city becomes a cinematic backdrop.
Settle in at Hôtel des Galeries… and simply follow the light.
Brussels has a rare gift: it turns winter into a celebration without ever losing its soul.
From 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the city hosts the 25th edition of Winter Wonders (Plaisirs d’Hiver) — its signature end-of-year festival. Christmas market stalls, a glowing light trail, big festive attractions, and a Grand-Place dressed up to the nines… the whole historic centre feels like a living postcard.
And this year, it’s not just a feeling: Winter Wonders is ranked among the world’s most on-trend Christmas markets in 2025. A lovely confirmation for anyone who already knows the Brussels magic.
When? From Friday 28 November 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.
The main trail runs until 1 January, with extra activities continuing on Place De Brouckère until 4 January
Where? Across the city centre: Grand-Place, Bourse, Sainte-Catherine, De Brouckère, Monnaie, Vismet… all linked by a beautiful light route.
Opening hours? Open daily, daytime and evening, with special schedules on 24 & 31 December and 4 January.
Tip: The official website has a super handy interactive map to spot stalls, attractions and events.
Best time to stroll?
Weekdays, late afternoon. The lights are on, the mood is rising, and the centre still feels pleasantly easygoing
The foodie reflex
Go for the Brussels trio: hot waffle + thick hot chocolate + winter beer. After that, just follow your nose — raclette and mulled wine do the rest.
The prettiest walk
Start with the Sainte-Catherine stalls, wander toward the Bourse, then finish at the Grand-Place right in time for the light show.
Is Winter Wonders family-friendly?
Absolutely. Between the attractions, ice rink and plenty of kid-focused activities, it’s perfect for families.
Do you need to book certain activities?
Most things are free to enjoy on the spot, but a few experiences (like the View Tower) require advance booking.
How much time should you plan?
At least one evening. Ideally, a full weekend so you can take it all in at your own pace.
December in Brussels lasts only a moment.
And the best dates disappear quickly too.
Book your stay at Hôtel des Galeries and enjoy the city lights… with your cosy boutique cocoon just a few steps away.
Located in the heart of the historic center, just steps from the Grand Place, Hôtel des Galeries is the perfect base to explore a summer in Brussels full of festivities. From urban beaches to music festivals, street parties to immersive art exhibitions — here are the must-see events around the Îlot Sacré this season.
Brussels’ quays transform into an urban beach getaway.
Expect lounge chairs, open-air concerts, boat cruises, mini-golf, kids’ activities, and tasty street food — all in a laid-back, summery vibe.
www.plaisirsdete.be
An enchanting weekend of music at Osseghem Park, right under the Atomium.
One day for folk, one for jazz. Free entry, family-friendly.
Head to Place du Jeu de Balle for a lively night of music and dancing to celebrate the eve of Belgium’s National Day — a joyful, all-Brussels tradition.
Free concerts in the Royal Park, events across the city, and a spectacular fireworks show best seen from Mont des Arts or the city heights.
A festive way to experience Belgian pride in full color.
One of Brussels’ most iconic summer events.
Boulevard du Midi
Over 100 rides and attractions, carnival treats, and a festive atmosphere that brings together locals and visitors alike.
An intimate alternative to the Flower Carpet.
The majestic Town Hall is adorned with floral creations by international artists — a sensory journey through Brussels’ architectural heritage.
An immersive, interactive exhibition blending digital art and retro video games in a lush setting.
Plein Publiek BXL – near Sainte-Catherine.
A creative indoor experience, ideal for a rainy day or family outing.
A free, eclectic festival in Laeken Park, combining live music, theatre, family activities and food trucks — vibrant and intergenerational.
Wrap up summer with a trio of cultural gems:
Feeërieën – magical open-air concerts
Boterhammen in het Park – Flemish music at lunchtime
Bar Chaud – DJs, cocktails & summer vibes
Five days of concerts across Brussels’ most iconic venues.
A mix of Belgian and international acts, with a festive urban energy.
Brussels’ most iconic summer moment.
The Grand Place becomes a living canvas of thousands of begonias, displayed for just four days.
A must-see — and less than a 2-minute walk from the hotel!
After a day of exploration, unwind in the calm of our elegant rooms, sip a cocktail on our hidden terrace, or enjoy local flavors at our restaurant.
Need help planning your days? Our reception team is always happy to assist with recommendations, reservations, or insider tips.
Book your summer stay now and experience Brussels in full seasonal splendor.
Nestled in the heart of the Parc du Cinquantenaire, Bagnole Brasserie is far more than a typical museum café. Located within the iconic Autoworld building, it’s the perfect spot for a gourmet break — whether you’re exploring the vintage car collection or simply in search of a quiet and delicious moment. Nearby, the Art & History Museum makes this a cultural stop not to be missed in one of Brussels’ most beautiful parks.
With wide bay windows, a sunny terrace and views over the majestic arches of the park, Bagnole appeals to lovers of fine machines and fine food alike.
Whether you’re planning a team lunch, a professional reception, a gala dinner or a large-scale corporate event, Bagnole offers a wide range of private hire options thanks to the adjacent event spaces at Autoworld.
From the brasserie itself to full-scale events in the museum, anything is possible. The team provides tailored catering menus, seminar packages, and full support to ensure a seamless and refined experience.
The menu celebrates Belgian brasserie favourites, revisited with freshness and generosity. A feel-good cuisine, simple yet full of flavour — perfect for a relaxed lunch or friendly gathering.
Dishes worth trying include:
• Glazed chicken wings, young leaves, shaved parmesan
• Italian-style beef tartare, sautéed vegetables
• Fish & chips, crispy batter and house tartare sauce
• And for dessert: lemon cream, topped with crunchy meringue
A warm and welcoming table where heritage meets indulgence.
Bagnole Brasserie
Autoworld, Parc du Cinquantenaire 11
1000 Brussels
info@bagnole-brasserie.be
Just steps from the European Quarter, Le Mess is housed in a historic building: the former officers’ mess of the Etterbeek barracks. Behind its understated façade lies a space of grandeur and calm, with soft light, high ceilings and the quiet charm of a stately home. Wood floors, spacious volumes and a welcoming atmosphere make Le Mess truly timeless.
The space lends itself beautifully to private hire, whether for a business lunch, cocktail reception, birthday or more formal celebration. In addition to the main dining room, the veranda along the side of the building offers a luminous, convivial setting. Carefully designed group menus ensure a seamless and refined experience for all occasions.
At Le Mess, vegetables are more than a side — they are the soul of the plate. Treated with care and creativity, they inspire a seasonal cuisine that is fresh, expressive and full of flavour. Some standout dishes include:
• Vegetable tartare, mustard seeds, cashew emulsion and flat-leaf parsley
• Beet carpaccio, apple, ash-ripened goat cheese and Sichuan pepper
• Vitello, stracciatella, anchovy cream, confit tomatoes and taggiasca olives
A cuisine rooted in simplicity, in a place where authenticity meets understated elegance.
Le Mess
Blvd Louis Schmidt 1
1040 Etterbeek
📞 +32 2 734 03 36
