In the heart of Europe

Brussels is not a big city compared to other European capitals; there are around two million people living, working, watering plants and drinking coffee every day there. But it is the place where all ends meet. In this fantastic mix of modern and old architecture, traditional sweets and vibrant nightlife, decisions are made. This is the place where the European Parliament stands and where interns from all European Union come to train. It's also the city of art, waffles and beer; it's expensive but highly charming in a way that is hard to explain. I've been to Brussels a few times now and the last time, when I was sitting at the Grand-Place among all those magnificent buildings around me, with a juicy hot Liège waffle in my hand, I felt totally at home.

Waffles and other delicacies

Of course, Brussels has many waffle shops, but if you want the best, go to Maison Dandoy on Rue Charles Buls 14. This amazing bakery is around close to 200 years now and there you can try both the Brussels and the Liège waffles. The first ones are crunchier and crispier, and the second ones are more juicy, creamy and caramelised. You can top them off with whipped cream, bananas, chocolate or - my personal favourite - ice cream. The coffee shop itself has a very nice ambient in which you can sit and relax with your waffle and you can also buy a variety of cookies and other sweets to take home with you. Their speciality is also Speculaas cookies from which they make delicious cream that you can put on your morning slice of bread.

If you don't have time to sit in a coffee shop (although I strongly recommend it) you can also head to their boutique shop on Galerie du roi 2, where you can try and taste different products and see what you'd like to take home. Of course, prices are not cheap, but it's definitely worth it to pay a little extra for the heavenly taste. They also have an online shop for when you get that sweet craving at home after you've already eaten all the cookies!

Another typical delicacy that you should try while in Brussels are the fries. They are not served only with ketchup, but also with mayonnaise, which can be shocking for some tourists. Nevertheless, they are juicy and delicious!

Another one of the Belgian specialities that are imported all over the world is beer. It is widely appreciated for its quality and long tradition of production, as well as a variety of tastes. When you go to a bar, don't be afraid to try something new - you will almost certainly be happy with your choice. The most common brands are the excellent Duvel, Chimay and Leffe, and they are also very popular in other countries, as well as Triple Karmeliet, but you should try different ones.

Where to go next

After you have already finished your waffle at the Maison Dandoy, bought your cookies and take enough pictures of the City Hall on the Grand-Place, you can start thinking where next. You are at a good spot. This is the historic centre of the city and everything to be seen is close to you: the architectural and gastronomical jewels as well as beautiful museums. Right next to you there is also the Brussels museum and Museum of cacao and chocolate, as well as Hard Rock Cafe and comic book store La Boutique Tintin. But if there is one museum that you can't leave Brussels without seeing it, I'd definitely have to say it is the Magritte Museum on Rue de la Régence 3. It is spectacular and it will leave you breathless, and if you are a student under the age of 26 with a valid student identity card you can get into the museum for the price of just 3 euros.

Enjoy your stay!

Photo gallery