Hello! Today, we will be reminiscing our first ever anniversary trip. This one happened quite some time ago, as it was right before we went to Rio de Janeiro. This meant that we had to watch out with our money, which affected our decision-making when it comes to choosing the destination.
This does not mean, however, that we did not enjoy it! We chose for Brussels, as we could simply take a train to there from the Netherlands where we live. This was both cheap, but also interesting, as Brussels is essentially the capital of Europe! There are tons of beautiful sights and exciting places, so we definitely did not regret going there!
Main Square (Grand-Place)
As with pretty much all of our trips, a Free Walking Tour was how we started to explore the city. We have both already visited Brussels before this, but this was the first time we've done it for a longer time and together. We learnt a lot about the city and the first place that really made us marvel at the city's beauty was the main square, surrounded by absolutely magnificent architecture!
Just look at the golden finishing.. Such grandeur.
Not only are the buildings beautiful, you can also get great chocolate in them!
When I wrote surrounded, I really meant it. It does not matter which way you turn, you see and feel this exaggerated splendor and glamour. Luxury really is the leading word that comes to mind when you see the town hall.. TOWN HALL.
Both on the square itself, as well as in its close vicinity, this display of vanity just does not want to stop.
Rest of Brussels
The beauty of Brussels does not end at Grand-Place though, as there is more to it - everyone knows it as the host of most of the European Union important bodies. What you can find just a fairly short walk away is, however, a former residence of another ruling body - the Royal Palace. It comes with awesome gardens, in which you can freely enjoy strolling, especially if the weather allows.
Fancy buildings don't end there, however, as you can also find a pretty church that doubles up as an art center - still in the city proper!
But what if I told you that all these beauties are not what excites tourists the most? The one "monument" - for the lack of a better word - that brings out the most awe in visitors is Manneken Pis. It does exactly what the name suggests: it's a little statue of a boy taking a piss.. I guess that's where we're headed.
I won't leave you with a statue of a peeing boy though - Brussels definitely also has more pleasant views, as it is one of those perfectly located cities. It has some hills and altitude changes, leading to people being able to get beautiful views of the city even still from within the city!
Isn't it just lovely?
Everything looks great lit up at night.
Closing Words
It has been a while since this trip took place and I would love to refresh my memory by visiting again. Brussels is beautiful for multiple reasons and it keeps surprising you at every corner. This post definitely does not do it justice - our visit there was focused on our anniversary and we surely spent more time looking at each other than at the city. But it is a glimpse at how stunning Brussels is.