When you think of a summer getaway, Brussels is usually not at the top of your list. But it may surprise you to learn that the capital of Belgium is well equipped for outdoor attractions during the hot season. The secret for a good Belgian time is to know where the locals hang out when the sun comes out.
Our first tip is to rent a vacation apartment in the heart of the lively local scene. Sweet Inn has plenty of great stylish places available, most of them equipped with balconies that you can bask in the sun and sip an aromatic Nespresso coffee.
Here are 4 cool (yet sizzling) local attractions during the summer time for you to explore in Brussels:
Brussels Vintage Market
Place Saint-Géry 1, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
This market is not only a great source to find anything from second-hand clothing to vinyl records, but is a great option to hang out for an afternoon with retro music ambiance played by a live DJ. It runs on the first Sunday of every month and offers a selection of clothing, accessories, jewelry, small furniture, toys and decorative objects.
There are indoor and outdoor areas, so you can enjoy a cool drink and browse for some great gifts while dancing to the beats.
Cafe Bota
Rue royale,236 Brussels, Belgium
The location of this restaurant is wonderful – right by the Saint-Josse Botanical Gardens. It offers delicious Italian dishes and an excellent wine list. The best part is their outdoor terrace with direct views of the beautiful gardens. We recommend going for an afternoon stroll in the gardens and finishing it off with a flavorful meal here, and of course a bottle of chilled white wine as an antidote to the heat. If it is too hot for you during lunchtime, you can always check this spot out at night when they have live bands or a DJ playing.
Palais Des Beaux-Arts (Bozar)
Rue Ravensteinstraat 23 Brussels, Belgium
Whether you’re looking for art exhibitions, music, dance performances, cinema or literature, immerse yourself in this fine arts center. During the summer months, they offer a unique experience which is called: Bozar Open Air. This outdoor exhibition space includes art shows, a No-Pool zone: an empty pool you can hang around due to authorities not giving them permission to operate it and be inspired by all the graffiti and art pieces encompassing this unique ‘backyard’. This is a really special and chic place for you to get a drink, mingle with other art lovers, look at some contemporary art and savor the summer sunset.
The Foire du Midi
Boulevard du Midi 90, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
It’s not a real summer vacation without a visit to an amusement park. Foire du Midi has been around for over 100 years and is still going strong! There are more than 130 attractions to find there, from rifle shootings to a ghost train, bumper cars to roller coasters, all you need for your complete retro park experience. So take your loved ones out for a full day of attractions, games, fun snacks and entertainment in this outdoor park.
Planning a summer vacation to Brussels? Start with booking your stylish apartment.
1 comment
The summer in Brussels is amazing!