When a friend invited me to stay a few days in Brussels I thought why not, it might be a bit of a rainy destination like London but it’s an easy get away on the Eurostar. I have been many times before for work but not got pleasure. I booked in advance so the train ticket return was only €100 per person and it was so much more convenient than flying.
I didn’t have to mess around with our liquids or the size of our hand luggage. We just rolled onto the train at Kings Cross and two hours later we arrived at Brussels midi main train terminal in the middle of town. With a flight one can often get stuck in Brussels Charleroi airport an hour and a half outside
town so arriving in the centre is a big time saver. I have had journeys across London that have taken the same amount of time!!!
Once we arrived my friend presented me with a number of Children’s entertainment options. The first and most widely known was Mini Europe, a large area where mini capital cities of all of the countries of Europe is built.
Mini Europe exploration
I didn’t think my daughter would be that interested but she was very excited and when we got there she took an interest in every single country. She asked me to take a picture of her in every city, which was getting a bit tedious, especially since it was boiling hot and there was barely any shade amidst the different cities.
This inspired me to give her my extra old phone and tell her to take a picture of all the cities she’s interested in. She took great pleasure in this and one hundred pictures later I realised I have now created a mini photographer.
An unlikely event, but it was one of the hottest days of the year in Belgium so half way through Mini Europe, I had to find us a short cut through the cities to the snack bar to take a break from the sun. After the obligatory ice-cream, french fries and sparkling water we enjoying the air conditioning for a while before we could survive the second round of Mini Europe. It took us almost all day to look around as there was also the planetarium, the Mini Europe museum at the end of tour, plus of course the gift shop.
At end of the day we got the much appreciated air conditioned subway home. This was one of the day trips I could thought would be better in the fall or spring but as my friend pointed out it would then in Brussels, it most likely be raining.
Since we seemed to make it to Brussels in unseasonable hot weather I decided we should go to the Dinosaur Museum the next day, as that’s air conditioned and inside. This museum was another pleasant surprise with loads of well presented dinosaur skeletons, and a play room with lots of educational materials for the kids to dig and play. Mayas favourite room was the interactive play room on the first floor but she found it all interesting especially the room about the evolution of human beings. Even I learned a lot of things I didn’t know about prehistoric times and appreciated the museum myself.
For more adult fun, the The Belgian Beer World Experience at Bourse Beers does fun trips around Brussels also.
In order to amuse my daughter and ourselves we asked her if she wanted to see the “pissing girl statue.” She jumped at the chance and was intrigued and delighted by the peeing girl. She was so disappointed to learn that there is no peeing girl statue for sale in the local shops. Sadly only a peeing boy statue is for sale and we all felt it’s time peeing girl was also made into a tourist symbol for purchase. Apparently the rights to the girl statue belong to Delirium Cate and that’s why no one has taken her image yet. Either way pissing girl is even cooler than pissing boy!!
Next to the girl statue is the Bar called Delirium Cafe, which is a fabulous unique massive bar that serves cherry beer in beautiful little elephant cups. You are not supposed to walk out with the cups but they are for sale at the bar. The cherry beer was delicious. The bar holds the Guinness World Record for the most beers offered with 2004 different beers. Today they are getting close to 2500 beers on the counter!
The last day of our quick trip was the highlight. We went to lunch in a stunning outdoor restaurant called La Fabrique, near the Avenue Louise (the central metro stop for most destinations). A delightful garden full of statues and peace and calm surrounds this amazing find in the middle of the city.
After that we walked to Grand Place, the central square of Brussels and the most impressive and beautiful square in the whole of Europe. As before we got waffles, a Belgium speciality and of course rubbed the pissing boy “Manneken Pis” for luck. It was not my first time to be in the square but it was Mayas since she was just born the first time we came.
On our last evening there was a fun outdoor street market with prosecco and oysters next to a charming street market. Locals enjoyed ambience and street food. The street fair was held on Aquaduc Waterleidings street outside the italian restaurant Educazione Napoletana.
Overall it was a great four days in Brussels and we filled every moment with fun things to do. A good place to stay is the Sofitel. The Radisson is in the same location near Avenue Louise and cheaper but still central and cheaper at around £99 a night. Airbnb offers some great affordable options for families visiting Brussels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Brussels with Kids
What are some kid-friendly attractions in Brussels?
Brussels boasts several attractions perfect for families, such as Mini-Europe, where kids can explore miniature versions of famous European landmarks, and the Royal Palace, which often has special family tours.
Are there any parks or play areas for kids?
Absolutely! Parc du Cinquantenaire and Bois de la Cambre are great spots where kids can run around, enjoy playgrounds, and even have picnics.
Is it easy to get around the city with kids?
Generally, yes! The city center is quite walkable, and many attractions are located close to each other. Just keep an eye on your little ones in busier areas.
What is the best time of year to visit Brussels with kids?
Spring and early summer (April to June) are fantastic times to visit. The weather is mild, and there are often seasonal events and outdoor activities perfect for families.
Is public transport suitable for families with children?
Yes, Brussels has a reliable public transport system that’s family-friendly. Trams and buses generally have space for strollers, and kids often travel for free or at a reduced fare.
Can we find child-friendly dining options?
Most restaurants in Brussels accommodate families, offering special kids’ menus and high chairs. You can also find numerous cafés serving delicious waffles and ice cream that kids will love.
What essentials should I pack for a trip to Brussels with kids?
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the whole family, a lightweight stroller if your kids are younger, snacks for outings, and a raincoat or umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable!
And lastly an interesting Fact for kids about Brussels:
Did you know that Brussels is home to the famous Manneken Pis, a little statue of a boy urinating? This quirky landmark has over 900 different outfits that he wears throughout the year, making it a fun spot to visit and see what he’s wearing next!
Check out:
Reasons to visit Brussels with kids
Packing essentials and travel hacks for family travel
