The Brussels-Capital Region is one of the three federal regions of Belgium, and it is the country's capital. It sits in the heart of Belgium, in north-central Europe, and it is the seat of major institutions of the European Union, including the European Parliament and the European Commission. That gives the city a distinctly international character, with official business, diplomacy and everyday life running side by side.
What a visit offers
Visitors come to Brussels for its role as a capital and for the mix of people who live and work there. The region is a place to walk through, to see government and European buildings, and to spend time in its streets and squares. Because so many international bodies are based here, the atmosphere often feels cosmopolitan, and you will hear a range of languages in daily use.
Planning your trip
- Purpose: a city break, a work trip, or a visit to see the European institutions from the outside.
- Getting around: the region is compact enough that many of its central areas can be explored on foot.
- Surroundings: Belgium is small, so other parts of the country are within practical reach for a day trip.
Brussels suits travellers who are interested in how a national capital and an international centre share the same space. Check current details on access, opening times and events with official sources before you set out.
