| 6 min read
Summer activities in Brussels
As the days get longer and warmer, Brussels sheds of her dusty Winter cloak and reveals her sparkling inner self. Full of energy and teeming with life, she casts a spell that turns everything more beautiful and attractive. People in the street are happier, the city looks more welcoming and the activities that become available are just innumerable. In order to help you discover Brussels at its best, we’ve created an overview of things to do in Summer time that will unveil the beauty we’re talking about.
Cool down with an ice cream
Looking for a way to cool down this Summer? Then head to one of Brussels’ best ice cream places for a refreshing break. If you happen to find yourself in the Sainte Catherine area, head to Gaston for some delicious ice-cream with the most unexpected flavors. Otherwise, there are also many Australian Ice Cream parlors scattered all over the city that serve excellent ice cream and waffles. Don’t let the name fool you; it’s a Belgian brand.
Explore Brussels’ rooftop bars
Although Brussels’ cozy ‘brown bars’ have been very welcoming on cold days, Summer is now inviting us to enjoy the long, warm days outside. With a cocktail preferably, and maybe also a panoramic view over the city. In other words, it’s time to explore the different rooftop bars in Brussels.
Watch an open-air movie
In Summer, movie screenings are organized all over the city, often in unique locations. There are various events, so browse around to determine which one is most convenient for you. Here is an overview: Tour & Taxis Summer, Bruxelles fait son cinema, Vaux-Hall Summer, l’Heure d’été, Wolubilis, Josaphat fait son cinema, Cinéma en plein air...
Have an apero or brunch on a boat while cruising the Brussels canal
Brussels By Water organizes short cruises over the Brussels canal, thereby offering you the opportunity to discover Brussels from a completely different perspective. From the deck of a boat you’ll explore the canal scenery which features industrial sites along with new architectural projects, shopping malls and the maritime port. The apero cruise includes a glass of bubbles upon boarding to get you in the mood, after which you’ll set off for a two-hour boat ride towards Vilvoorde and back. If you're hungry or thirsty, you can order another drink or a snack at the bar during the cruise. On a beautiful Summer evening, you’ll also get to enjoy a unique sunset view. They also offer a Sunday brunch formula where you'll get to enjoy an all-you-can-eat brunch while cruising over the canal.
Visit the Royal Palace
Every Summer, the Royal Palace opens its doors to the public. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore this great example of neoclassical architecture and the best part is that it’s completely free of charge. Marvel at the grandeur, marble floors, antique furniture… The Throne Room with its massive chandeliers is definitely a highlight. The ceremonial room which ceiling is decorated with the wings of scarab beetles is quite remarkable too.
Organize a picnic in the park
Picnics are a great Summer activity, because you get to spend time outside in one of Brussels’ beautiful parks while surrounding yourself with people you like. Given the open nature of the event, it is also a great occasion to invite more people and make new friends. We’ve created a little overview of the best parks to picnic based on criteria like opening times, view and coziness. Feeling lazy about the preparation bit? Then check out Josaphine’s picnic baskets that contain everything you need for a completely hassle-free picnic in Parc Josaphat.
Admire Brussels from above
Summer (usually) comes with beautiful clear skies, which automatically adds an extra layer of loveliness to just any place in town. This makes it the best period to climb up to a vantage point and take in as much beauty as possible. We’ve made a list of the best panoramic views in Brussels.
Go camping
Yes, you read it right. It is possible to go camping in Brussels in the center of Brussels. Situated close to Matongé, Camping Ciel Ouvert is a welcoming campsite with space for up to 100 tents, although it’s usually not that crowded. The guests are mainly backpackers, cyclists, interrail travelers, and the occasional non-Europeans. But even if you live in Brussels, why wouldn’t you organize a little camping trip? Not only is it fun to sleep under the stars, it is also an out-of-the ordinary activity that will allow you to discover a different side of Brussels!
Watch the sunset
Pack a bottle of wine and two glasses, and invite your other half to watch the sunset together. There are some amazing sunset spots in Brussels where you'll get to enjoy an amazing view which is made even more dramtical by the sunset light around dusk. Check out our recommendations to find out more!
Check the Brussels agenda for more events
In Summer, Brussels boasts an abundance of very diverse events, many of which are free. The most popular Summer festivals in Brussels are the Brussels Summer Festival and Couleur Café. Keep an eye on the Brussels agenda to stay informed about everything that's happening during the Summer months!
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