The heart of Brussels is known as the Grand Place and grand it is. The area is filled with the city’s most impressive architecture including the town hall and buildings trimmed in gold. The multitude of medieval and Renaissance structures is one of the most impressive in all of Europe.

Some other well known architectural landmarks are the stained glass windows of the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudule. The impressive cathedral took over 300 years to build. The detailing extends from the statues surrounding the entrance to the intricate pulpit. It is the oldest gothic style cathedral within the Benelux, a union of states comprised of Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

There is also a great selection of museums and festivals that focus on everything from art to the military and waffles to music. The Royal Museums of Fine Art is actually four different museums that offer over 20,000 paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and of Military History is built on the original training grounds of the Civil Guard and strives to provide an all encompassing view of the military and its place in society and history. So whether students want to spend a day learning about the development of the military or the evolution of the waffle, there is a museum for everyone.

The city also provides outdoor activities in sprawling parks and beautiful botanical gardens. Festivals are frequent and take place year round so if the upcoming one doesn’t interest you, have no fear, another will soon follow. Iris Day pays homage to the lovely flower which is used as the emblem of Belgium and the Belgian Beer Weekend is filled with thousands of brews from around the world. Others include the Brussels Film Festival, and the weekly Roller and Bike Parade. Expect to find plenty of concerts and food at all of them.