Once the 10th century fortress and now a hub of international politics, Brussels has both an interesting history as well as huge modern significance. It’s the largest metropolitan area in Belgium with about two million inhabitants. While this city is a melting pot of European cultures thanks to its location and importance in the European economy, Brussels is a great place for a vacation, but you will need to get a new US passport before you go.
Getting a passport is a breeze with expedited passport pages services. Not only do you get to apply for your passport online, but you also get it as quickly as you need it. It definitely beats having to drive to the post office, wait in line, fill out the confusing paperwork, and then wait 8-14 weeks on top of that for it to be delivered. Other services are available too. For instance, you can get expedited passport pages for your current passport if you are running low, something that is important to consider, as many places won’t allow you entry if you don’t have enough blank pages.
The Grand-Place is definitely a great place to start your adventure in Brussels, and it has earned the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is Brussels’ central square, and it is surrounded by spectacular 300-year-old buildings. There are plenty of places to stop, eat, and do a little people-watching, including some places the sell famous Belgian waffles. There is also a variety of shops around the square. While you’re there, be sure to visit one of the most famous statues in the world and one of Brussels’ most famous attractions, the Manneken Pis. This iconic bronze statue, designed in 1618, depicts a little boy peeing into the fountain.
Also in Place-Royal is Musee Rene Magritte. Brussels is home to many worthwhile museums, and this is consistently a favorite. This museum features the surrealist artwork of Rene Magritte, over 200 works of art on all sorts of different media. Another great museum is the Museum des Sciences Naturelles, a well-rounded and very interesting natural science museum famous for its dinosaur exhibit. One spot that serves as not only an architectural jewel but also a great place to learn a little bit about Belgian culture is the Musee des Instruments de Musique, or the Museum of Musical Instruments. As a world-famous instrument museum, it contains around 7000 different instruments.
Beer is an integral component to Belgian culture. If consider yourself a lover of fine brews, definitely stop by the Cantillon Brewery. Well-known around Brussels for their fresh and delicious beer, this traditional brewery also offers a fun and interesting tour. Not to mention there are free samples involved. As you’re leaving, be sure to pick up a case (or two) of their flavored beers.
The Belgian culture has so many facets, and getting to discover them all is one of the best parts about traveling to Brussels. Before you head over there, be sure to get a new pasport or get an old one renewed. If you are running low on pages, you can also get expedited passport pages online.

















