1. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are a must if you want to discover the country's artistic masterpieces. Located not far from Place Royale, this museum complex groups together several institutions, including :
- The Museum of Ancient Art, where you can admire paintings, sculptures and drawings from the 15th to 18th centuries. Flemish primitives (Van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden) are particularly prominent.
- The Museum of Modern Art, with collections spanning the period from the late 18th century to the present day.
- The Magritte Museum, dedicated to one of Belgium's greatest artists, René Magritte. His surrealist canvases, full of symbolism and mystery, fascinate young and old alike.
This museum complex is both grandiose and immersive. Allow several hours, or even a full day, if you wish to explore each section in depth. The various itineraries, as well as the temporary exhibitions, offer a variety of pleasures and a deeper understanding of Belgian and European art history.
2. Belgian Comic Strip Center (CBBD)
Brussels is often referred to as the capital of comics. This is the birthplace of such iconic characters as Tintin, Spirou, Lucky Luke and the Smurfs. To immerse yourself in this rich and colorful universe, visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center.
Housed in a superb Art Nouveau building designed by architect Victor Horta, the CBBD traces the history and evolution of Belgian and international comics.
You'll discover :
- Permanent exhibits, covering the history of 9ᵉ art, drawing techniques and the secrets behind comic book boards.
- Regularly renewed temporary exhibitions highlight the diversity and creativity of contemporary authors.
- A library and documentation center, perfect for further research or browsing through hundreds of must-have titles.
Whether you're a comic book connoisseur or simply curious, this visit will delight the whole family, thanks to its fun, interactive approach. You'll come away with a head full of bubbles and endearing characters!
3. The Belgian Museum of Natural Sciences
For fans of nature, paleontology and biodiversity, the Belgian Museum of Natural Sciences is a must-see. Located in the European Quarter, this museum is particularly renowned for its Dinosaur Gallery, one of the largest in Europe. Here you can admire impressive skeletons of specimens such as the iguanodon, tyrannosaurus and triceratops.
In addition to the dinosaurs, the museum offers many educational and interactive sections:
- The Galerie de l'Homme, which retraces human evolution and features a variety of fossils as well as immersive scenography.
- The Biodiversity Gallery, highlighting the richness of life and the need to protect our environment.
- Temporary exhibitions on a variety of subjects related to science, nature and sustainability.
Ideal for families, the Museum of Natural Sciences captivates children with its playful, educational displays. Adults will also find plenty to satisfy their thirst for knowledge.
4. The Museum of Musical Instruments (MIM)
Housed in the former Old England House, a magnificent Art Nouveau building, the Museum of Musical Instruments offers both a cultural and sensory experience. Its collection of over 8,000 instruments is renowned the world over.
During the tour, you can :
- Discover the evolution of music through the ages and continents, thanks to a thematic and chronological presentation.
- Listen to sound extracts using an interactive audioguide system. Every instrument on display can be heard, bringing the experience to life.
- Admire the stunning architecture of Old England House, whose wrought-iron and glass façade is a true masterpiece.
MIM also offers an exceptional panoramic view of the city from its top-floor cafeteria. A gourmet break overlooking the rooftops of Brussels - just the thing for an original visit!
Good to know: Before you set out to explore these museums, find out about opening times and online reservations. Some establishments offer reduced rates or attractive family packages.
Brussels is a city in perpetual motion: there's always a new exhibition, festival or event not to be missed. Whether you're a fan of classical art, comics, science or contemporary culture, you're bound to find something to suit you in the Belgian capital.