City of Brussels – Stunning architecture, quirky fountains
Why not start your visit to Brussels with the wonderful view from the ascenseur des Marolles, a glass lift from Marolles to Place Poelaert on the hill above? The view takes in the monumental Basilique Nationale du Sacré Cœur, the town hall's spire, and Brussels' modern icon, the iron-atom-shaped Atomium, over 6 kilometres away. For another breathtaking vista, the Basilique's dome more than repays you for the climb and the art-deco architecture of one of the world's largest churches is well worth the visit. If museums are your thing, you're in for a treat – there are more than 80 in Brussels, covering wide-ranging topics, including the history of comic strips. Children should enjoy activities at the Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site, including an underground treasure hunt. For relaxation, check out Brussels' many intimate ‘pocket parks', such as Parc Faider or Square Frère-Orban, or have a chuckle at the Manneken Pis or Le Cracheur water fountains.