The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Brussels

Brussels is not only the political capital of Europe, it is also the perfect destination for enjoying the great outdoors. Its parks, squares and cycle routes offer great things to do at any time of the year. Although the Belgian weather can be fickle, with sunny days interspersed with unexpected showers, the city has something for everyone. If you're looking for a different way to discover Brussels and its surroundings, here are the best outdoor activities.

If there's one perfect way to get around the city, it's by bike. Brussels has well-connected cycle paths and routes that take you from the Grand Place to more alternative neighbourhoods such as Ixelles or Saint-Gilles. By cycling, you can discover hidden gems that escape the tourists who only walk through the centre. Moreover, the terrain is quite accessible, with few slopes, which makes this activity ideal for everyone.

If you prefer to explore the city with the help of a guide, a bike tour is the best option. Accompanied by a local expert, you'll tour the city's most emblematic spots while learning about its history and curiosities. Plus, it's a quick and sustainable way to get around without missing a thing.

Directly opposite the Royal Palace, this park is the green lung of the city centre. With wide tree-lined avenues, elegant fountains and lawns, it's the perfect place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you can have a picnic, read a book under the shade of the trees or just sit on a bench and watch life go by.

If you like art and music, in summer the park is full of cultural activities, with open-air concerts, theatre and dance performances. It is also common to see people practising yoga or running along the paths. A place where time seems to slow down and where the city feels different.

If you want to escape the city for a day, a trip to Bruges and Ghent is a must. Bruges, with its canals and cobbled streets, looks like something out of a fairy tale, while Ghent combines its medieval past with a vibrant, modern energy.

Both cities have a special charm, with colourful houses reflecting in the water and squares full of history. In Bruges, you can visit the Main Square, the Lake of Love or wander through the narrow streets. In Ghent, St Bavo's Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders are must-sees.

If you decide to visit Bruges, you can't miss a boat trip along the canals. It's the best way to admire the old houses, the charming bridges and the romantic atmosphere. From the water, the city looks different, almost as if time has stood still.

The boat trip lasts about 30 minutes and is a unique opportunity to discover the history of the city from a different perspective. Whatever the time of year, this experience offers unforgettable images that you won't want to miss.

For lovers of history and architecture, a trip to Antwerp and Ghent is an opportunity to discover two of Belgium's most fascinating cities. Antwerp is the birthplace of Rubens and a benchmark in design and fashion, while Ghent dazzles with its imposing castle and Gothic cathedral.

Antwerp is also famous for its imposing train station, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, and for its lively nightlife. In Ghent, you can stroll along the banks of the river Lys and discover places that look like something out of a Flemish painting.

If you fancy a change of scenery, you can take a day trip from Brussels to Amsterdam. Discover its canals, alternative atmosphere and famous museums in a perfect way to make the most of your stay in Belgium.

Walking through the Red Light District, visiting the Anne Frank House or cycling like a local are just some of the experiences that await you in the capital of the Netherlands. An ideal getaway for those looking for something different without straying too far from Brussels.

For those interested in politics and history, a walk through the European Quarter is a must. This is where the main institutions of the European Union, such as the Commission and the Parliament, are located. It is a modern and dynamic area, with international-style cafés and urban art spaces.

Nearby, the Cinquantenaire Park offers a perfect space to walk, play sports or simply admire its impressive triumphal arch. This park is ideal for those looking for a quiet corner to relax and enjoy a bit of nature without leaving the city.

If you're travelling in spring, one of the best options is to take a trip to the Keukenhof gardens in the Netherlands, famous for their endless fields of tulips. Here, thousands of flowers create a visual spectacle that can only be enjoyed for a few weeks of the year.

In addition, the picturesque town of Delft, with its canals and blue and white ceramics, is an undiscovered gem. Strolling through its streets transports you to another era, with historic buildings and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a perfect getaway for lovers of photography and postcard-perfect scenery.

Brussels and its surroundings are full of options for enjoying the great outdoors. Whether it's cycling through the city, strolling through its parks or exploring nearby sites, there are plans for every traveller. Which of these experiences will be at the top of your list?