Heart of Europe

Flanders

The northern part of Belgium is known as Flanders. All Flemish towns are brimming with quaint medieval squares, tree-lined canals, gorgeous architectural facades, world class museums, trendy fashion and designer boutiques, and friendly outdoor cafés perfect for sipping on one of the many hundreds of different local beers. And – not to forget – the best chocolate in the world...Travelling to Flanders is an unforgettable experience!

At the crossroads of ancient civilizations, Belgium is the culmination of European cultures.

Moreover, the capital of Belgium, Brussels, is also the de facto capital of Europe. The European institutions are dotted across town and are at the heart of democracy in the Union.

Belgium is also geographically very much the heart of Europe, so getting there is easy, thanks to the many flight and train connections.

Big European cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam or Berlin are closeby, so Belgium is a perfect starting point to discover Europe.

But just don't go yet â there is much to see and do here!

Not to Miss

European Parliament

The European Parliament acts as the law and policy checker; it is able to amend, delay and reject laws and policies put forward by the European Commission. The President of the European Parliament, all elected representatives and their aids have permanent offices in Brussels at the Espace Leopold complex located on the other side of Place du Luxembourg. The European Parliament is quite welcoming to visitors. The public can attend parliamentary sittings, receive audio-guided visits and organise group tours. All visits are free of charge.

European Commission

The European Commission is the major administrative branch of the European Union, and comprises of commissioners whose responsibility is to draft proposals for law and policy creation. The Commission is housed in one of Brussels'most iconic buildings named the Berlaymont. The Berlaymont is the primary seat of the Commission and was the first building to be constructed for the European political organs – originally built in the 1960s, designed as a four-pointed star on supporting columns, and at the time an ambitious design.

NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is an intergovernmental military alliance with the essential purpose of safeguarding the freedom and security of its members through political and military means. NATO is headquartered in Brussels.

European District

The European neighbourhood in Brussels is roughly comprised between the Royal Park, the Jubilee Park and the Leopold Park. It is one of the most modern parts of the city, and an area of the city where English is the most commonly spoken language.

Train across Europe

Brussels, being situated so centrally within Europe, is a great starting place for an epic journey across the continent. Hop on the train and venture out to Paris, London, Amsterdam or Berlin – and beyond. One of the incredible charms of Belgium is that a one-and-a-half hour ride in just about any direction takes you to... another country!