Discovering Brussels' Museums and Galleries

No trip to Brussels would be complete without a little time spent in some of the city’s world-class museums and galleries. Dip into local history museums and get a sense of the place you’re visiting, or head to a swish contemporary art gallery and pick up a piece to bring home; however you spend your time in Brussels museums, you’re sure to be glad you did.

There’s something for everyone in the capital of Belgium. Read on to discover our pick of the best museums and galleries in Brussels. 

Insider tip: pick up a Brussels Museum Pass

A Museum Pass, or a Brussels Card, allows you entrance into 39 museums, easy public transport use, and discounts at many of the city’s attractions, tours, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The price of the card is nothing compared to the amount you’ll save during your stay!

Residing in an impressive neo-Gothic building in Brussels’ historical centre, the Museum of the City of Brussels is dedicated to the history and folklore of the city from its foundation right up until today. The building itself is recognised as a national heritage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, worth visiting for those reasons alone. 

Home to more than 7,000 pieces, including the original Manneken Pis statue, the Brussels City Museum is a must-visit and a great place to start your trip.

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts is an essential destination for art lovers and historians alike, with impressive historical and modern collections displayed side by side. Belgian artists are displayed prominently in this museum, which is home to 20,000 works of art. 

Tracing the history of the visual arts, visitors can mill about grand, marble-floored halls, exploring the finest painting, sculpture, and drawing from the 15th to the 21st centuries.

The Horta Museum, or Musée Horta, showcases the elegant style of renowned architect Victor Horta. The father of art nouveau, Horta’s Brussels home is the site of the museum today and is a wonderful place to visit if you’re interested in art, architecture, or timeless design. 

The museum is made up of two buildings, Horta’s house of residence and his studio. Explore the reception, the music, dining, and living rooms, and the private apartments of Victor and his wife. Look up and take note of the stained-glass skylight and pay attention to the curved shapes which add a sense of flow to your journey through the house. 

The best hotels near Brussels museums

If you’re still searching for the best hotels near the Museum of Fine Arts Brussels, look no further than the Pullman Brussels Centre Midi. Boasting modern comfort and slick design throughout, the Pullman Brussels Centre Midi occupies a beautiful building designed by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel. The historic city centre is just a stone’s throw from the hotel, so you can enjoy the short stroll into the atmospheric heart of Brussels. 

Choose Pullman for your trip to Brussels and enjoy the warmest welcome. Our attentive team will be on-hand from the moment you arrive, so you can enjoy a perfect trip from start to finish.