26 Best Museums in Brussels That Are Worth a Visit

1. Choco-Story Brussels

Belgium has a long and fascinating history; somehow, it has become famous for three simple things – fries, beer, and chocolate.

What better way to experience the true culture of Belgium than to indulge in all three?

A great way to tick at least one of these is by visiting the Choco-Story Museum in Brussels.

The “Brown Gold” has a rich history that dates back to the Mayans and Aztecs of ancient Mesoamerica.

From there, they trace the humble bean journey across the seas, eventually becoming the tasty treat we know today.

Belgians, as mentioned earlier, are known for their chocolate, and here you have the chance to learn from the best!

Wander through this two-story, interactive kid-friendly chocolate museum in Brussels, where you can learn everything you want to know about chocolate.

You can also experience a ‘praline presentation’, where a master chocolatier will demonstrate the skills involved in chocolate making. Don’t miss the free tasting!

And if you’re not satisfied yet, you can even book your own individual workshop to become a hands-on expert yourself.

And, there is always the museum shop, stocked to the brim with goodies!

If you love chocolate (who doesn’t?) then this is absolutely the museum for you!

Great for kids, and a break from the many art museums, palaces and churches, the Choco-Story Brussels museum is a fun and delicious experience for everyone.

Contributed by Jenna from I Know the Pilot

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

2. Museum of the Belgian Brewers

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you can’t miss the Museum of the Belgian Brewers in Brussels.

The museum is the best place for anyone interested in the rich history and traditions of Belgian beer making.

You can learn about the brewing process, the different types of Belgian beers, and their unique flavours and aromas through exhibits that showcase artefacts, tools, and machinery used in the brewing process.

The interactive displays and multimedia presentations make the museum experience even more engaging.

Enjoy a guided tour and taste some of the best Belgian beers for the best experience for beer lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

3. Atomium

Atomium is a Brussels landmark and a beautiful attraction for anyone travelling to the city.

This futuristic structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.

The Atomium consists of nine interconnected spheres that house exhibitions, a restaurant, and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city.

You can explore the various exhibits, which include a history of the Atomium, a tribute to the 1950s, and a space dedicated to the famous comic character Tintin.

The Atomium’s unique design and breathtaking views make it a memorable destination that’s sure to impress.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

4. The Musical Instruments Museum

The Musical Instruments Museum in Brussels is a must-visit for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

This unique museum boasts an extraordinary collection of over 8,000 musical instruments from different eras and cultures.

The exhibits explore the history and evolution of music through these fascinating objects, ranging from ancient Egyptian harps to modern synthesizers.

The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, and visitors can listen to recordings of music while admiring the instruments on display.

The Musical Instruments Museum also offers workshops, concerts, and interactive experiences, making it a lively and engaging destination for all ages.

Whether you’re a musician or simply curious about the world of music, this museum is an excellent choice for an unforgettable experience in Brussels.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

5. Mini-Europe

Mini-Europe is an incredible miniature park in Brussels that offers visitors the opportunity to explore scaled-down replicas of famous European landmarks and buildings.

The park features over 350 meticulously crafted models of iconic sites from across the continent, including the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and the leaning tower of Pisa.

Wander through the park at your own pace and admire the intricate details of each model, while also learning about the history and significance of each structure.

The park also includes interactive exhibits and displays that allow visitors to experience the sights and sounds of different regions of Europe.

Mini-Europe is absolutely a fun and unique attraction that’s perfect for all ages!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

6. Autoworld

Autoworld is a fascinating museum located in Brussels that showcases the history and evolution of the automobile.

The museum features an impressive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, as well as interactive exhibits that provide insight into the technological advancements of the automotive industry.

Autoworld also offers a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including classic car rallies and exhibitions featuring new and innovative automotive technologies.

The museum’s location in a stunning Art Nouveau building that was once part of the Cinquantenaire Park complex adds to the overall charm and appeal of this unique and inspiring place.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

7. Train World

Train World is the perfect museum for train enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of transportation.

Located in Brussels, the museum features a collection of steam locomotives and vintage carriages that showcase the evolution of trains and railways.

Visitors can explore the various exhibits and learn about the engineering and technology behind these fascinating vehicles.

Train World also offers interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what it’s like to drive a train and to learn about the daily lives of train workers.

With its engaging displays, Train World is a destination that’s sure to captivate a lot of tourists!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

8. Belgian Comic Strip Center

Brussels has a serious obsession with comic book strips.

Walking the streets you’ll notice the building-sized murals featuring comic book characters.

In fact, the city claims to be the home of comic strips and celebrates this all across the city.

No place pays more homage to comics art in Brussels than the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

Here they immortalize famous comic book characters like the Smurfs, as well as, my personal favourite comic Tin Tin.

As one of the top museums in Brussels, this place boasts a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits.

They showcase 60,000 different comics, the history of comics, and the impact they have had on the world.

To be honest, I wasn’t the biggest fan of comic strips, other than Tin Tin, before visiting the museum.

But after learning more about their history and art, I walked away from this Brussels comic museum with a new perspective and appreciation for them.  

There’s no shortage of things to do in Brussels, but the Comic Strip museum is unique, informative, and fun. 

Contributed by Stephen Schreck from A Backpackers Tale

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

9. Design Museum Brussels

The Design Museum Brussels is a space dedicated to the previous and current centuries’ design and their histories. 

The museum was established when the Atomium acquired its permanent exhibition Plastic Design Collection or Plasticarium. This collection shows plastic’s role from the 1950s to the present and its impressive relationship to design. 

Another permanent exhibition, Belgisch Design Belge, is specifically designed for the appreciation of Belgian design and its history. 

As for other forms of design that showcase other periods, materials, and themes, the Design Museum Brussels holds temporary exhibitions for these.

With the mission to make design accessible for all, the museum also holds guided tours, workshops, and other events.

If you love interior design and furniture design, the Design Museum Brussels is the best museum in Brussels for you!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

10. Fashion and Lace Museum

Located in the centre of Brussels, the Fashion and Lace Museum is the right spot for those interested in fashion and textiles.

The museum boasts a unique collection of over 10,000 objects, including intricate lacework, elegant clothing, and accessories that date back to the 16th century.

Visitors can marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship on display, learn about the history and techniques of lace-making, and explore the evolution of fashion throughout the centuries.

Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations further enhance the experience, providing visitors with hands-on exploration of this fascinating world.

Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, this unique museum is a must-visit attraction in Brussels.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

11. Horta Museum

The Horta Museum is an ideal attraction for art and architecture enthusiasts visiting Brussels.

The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Victor Horta, one of the founders of Art Nouveau architecture.

The building itself is a work of art, designed by Horta in 1898 as his own residence and studio.

It is a stunning example of the Art Nouveau style, with curved lines, ornate ironwork, and colourful stained glass windows.

Inside, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved interiors, including the artist’s living quarters, as well as original furniture and decorative pieces.

The Horta Museum is a unique and inspiring destination that showcases the beauty and creativity of one of the most influential architects of the 20th century.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

12. Royal Museums of Fine Arts

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are a group of world-renowned Brussels art museums.

It features an extensive collection of over 20,000 paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the 15th to the 21st century, showcasing the works of Belgian and international artists.

Visitors can witness iconic masterpieces by Flemish painters like Rubens and Bruegel.

These Brussels museums also host temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and events that cater to art enthusiasts of all ages.

With their rich cultural heritage and vibrant contemporary scene, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels are must-see destinations for any art lover.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

13. Magritte Museum

Brussels beyond the Grand Place and the brewery tours is a delightfully surreal experience! 

The Magritte Museum is among the best art museums in Brussels, Belgium and one of my favourites anywhere in Europe.

Celebrating the works of famed Surrealist René Magritte, the museum has over two hundred of his works on display.

Magritte is one of the most famous Belgians in history, and over three hundred thousand people visit the museum every year, making it one of the most-visited art museums in Brussels.

Many of Magritte’s famous pieces are here, including works from his Vache period, but there are also numerous works here from his lesser-known periods.

It’s a great way to appreciate what makes Magritte’s work so special, as well as discover entirely new chapters in the artist’s career.

However, make sure you don’t take pictures (even with the flash off). I had a guard come up and delete my entire camera roll when I forgot that you couldn’t take photos in the museum.

Be amazed by a lot of surprises and hidden gems that go beyond the top tourist attractions like the best museums in Brussels.

If you plan to visit some of these fascinating places, you could never go wrong visiting the Musée Magritte Museum!

💡 Tip: Since 2017, it’s possible to rent an audio guide for children and teenagers. Through a conversation between a child and the painter, kids will get to know 30 pieces of his work. The guide costs €4 and is available in 5 languages and in 2 versions (6-11 & 12-18).

Contributed by Stephanie from HistoryFangirl

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

14. OldMasters Museum

The Oldmasters Museum in Brussels is a treasure trove of art.

It houses a remarkable collection of masterpieces from the Flemish and Belgian schools of painting dating back to the 15th to the 18th centuries.

The museum features works of renowned artists such as Bruegel, Rubens, and Van Dyck, showcasing the evolution of painting styles and techniques during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

People can immerse themselves in the museum’s galleries and admire the details and beauty of each painting.

The Oldmasters Museum offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the cultural and historical significance of these works of art and learn about the lives and styles of their creators.

If you’re an avid art lover or simply curious about the history of painting, you don’t want to skip the beautiful Oldmasters Museum.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

15. Musée Meunier

The Musée Meunier features the works of the famous Belgian painter, draftsman, and sculptor Constantin Meunier. In fact, it was formerly his home studio.

The artist’s work revolved around the social, political, and industrial life in Belgium at the end of the 1800s. 

His realist style is graced in the pieces he made between 1875 and 1905, which he referred to as his second life. 

These include over 150 of 700 paintings, plaster models, and bronze sculptures of varying sizes, among others.

If you are an aspiring painter or sculptor, a fan of the artist, or studying the themes that embrace his art, visit Musée Meunier. It is one of the art museums in Brussels you will learn a lot from.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

16. Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art

The Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art, also known as the MIMA, is a vibrant museum situated in the heart of Brussels.

The museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, including street art, graphic design, and digital art.

With its innovative and thought-provoking exhibits, it’s a museum that’s sure to inspire and challenge visitors of all ages.

The museum’s unique approach to art curation includes a focus on the intersection of art and culture, and many of the exhibits are interactive and engage with current social issues.

It’s a destination that shouldn’t be missed!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

17. Bozar

The Centre of Fine Arts, commonly referred to as Bozar, is a brilliant cultural destination. It hosts various programs such as exhibitions, concerts, and other cultural displays and performances.

Its dynamic and diversified programmes employ a multidisciplinary approach in connecting art, culture, and society. For this, it offers space where you can enjoy cinema, dance, theater, literature, and architecture, among others.

Situated in the capital of Europe, Bozar targets to be the continent’s cultural centre. Being located at the Mont des Arts, and in a historical monument designed by the architect Victor Horta, seems to be not enough for the centre.

Hence, Bozar, plays a part in highlighting heritage and creation, science and research, diversity, and inclusion, as well as art and well-being, among other societal challenges.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

18. Natural Sciences Museum

A visit to the Museum of Natural Science cannot be missed when you are spending a couple of days visiting the best museums in Brussels.

Especially if you are a dinosaur fan, you’ll enjoy this recently renewed scientific gem.

Learn everything there is to know about the Bernissart Iguanodons: 30 relatively intact skeletons that were found in a coal mine in Belgium in the 19th Century.

But the Dinosaur Gallery is what makes all the dinosaur lovers drool – this 3000m2 (the largest in Europe) is entirely dedicated to our millions of old friends.

There’s more to the museum than dinosaurs alone. Among others is BiodiverCITY – an exhibition about biodiversity in urban areas and a mineral hall.

There’s also the very interesting Gallery of Humankind. It’s divided into 3 large parts: Our Evolution, Modern Humans, and Our Body.

If you’re travelling with kids, this museum is a top choice too, because it’s been made entirely interactive!

Let the kiddos check out dinosaur poo, compare their height to the Velociraptor, dig up dinosaur bones or recreate human bodies with large magnetic pieces.

Every single hall of the museum enables you to touch, listen, think, hear and smell.

It’s a great feature, not only for kids but for adults as well! We visited the Natural Sciences Museum with a 2 and a 4-year-old and they both totally loved it!

But what really makes it one of the best museums in Brussels is the PaleoLAB which is amazing for kids.

Children, aged 5-12 can take on the role of a palaeontologist, geologist or anthropologist and taste science through an array of great activities.

This lab is available 3 times a day during Belgian school holidays and takes up to 45 minutes.

So, if you’re looking for things to do in Brussels with kids, don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind museum!

Contributed by Babs from Next Stop Belgium

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

19. Museum of Medicine

If you’re fascinated by the history of medicine and medical practices, the Museum of Medicine is your way to go!

The museum boasts a selection of medical instruments and equipment, ranging from the ancient to the modern.

Discover various exhibits showcasing medical techniques and procedures throughout the centuries, as well as the evolution of medical technologies.

Additionally, this museum provides insight into the education and training of medical professionals, including the history of medical schools and teaching hospitals in Belgium.

The Museum of Medicine is an ideal place to learn about the fascinating history of healthcare and medicine.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

20. Sewer Museum

If you are interested in engineering and urban development, the Sewer Museum won’t disappoint!

The Sewers Museum will introduce you to the sewers of Belgium’s capital, the practical purpose it serves, its history, and how they were built and reconstructed. 

You will descend underground, walk alongside an actual sewer, and find out about the secrets of the River Senne.

You will also discover about the water cycle and how the daily water management system in Brussels work. 

The museum will also open your eyes to how sewer workers perform their job and help avoid flooding in the city. You will also notice actual sewer maintenance.

While the place slightly smells and you may run into a couple of rodents, worry not! The area is perfectly safe and there are a few hygiene stations where you can sanitise yourself if need be.

The Sewers Museum offers an audio guide that allows visitors to explore at their own pace. For children, an interactive visit is designed. If you think these suits you or your family, it is better to not skip these!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

21. BELvue Museum

The BELvue Museum is the best history museum in Brussels.

Its doors are open to provide a deeper view of the past and present history of the country. It also offers an insight into what makes one a Belgian and a Belgian society.

The approach to learning is thematic. 

To help develop historical awareness and trust in democratic values, the BELvue Museum dedicates seven rooms to seven social themes. 

These include democracy, language, prosperity, and solidarity, among others. 

Each theme is initially presented with the perspective of the present day in mind and then is discussed further historically.

Another feature of this museum is the gallery of more than 200 ordinary and exceptional objects. All of which are relevant to Belgium’s history. 

Memorabilia included are everyday items, artworks, and scientific inventions, among others. These are displayed chronologically, starting from the 19th century to the present.

Situated in what formerly was the Hotel Bellevue, the BELvue Museum is located near other Belgium museums on this list. Hence, if you’re planning to visit multiple in a day, hopping from one museum to another will be a breeze!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

22. Brussels City Museum

Brussels City Museum, also known as the Maison du Roi, is a fascinating museum that showcases the history and culture of Brussels through the ages.

The museum is housed in the iconic City Hall building, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Inside, visitors can explore the various exhibits, which include historical artefacts, paintings, and sculptures that tell the story of the city’s past.

One of the most famous exhibits is the Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue of a urinating boy that has become a symbol of the city.

The Brussels City Museum is a worthwhile place to visit for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Brussels.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

23. Palace of Coudenberg

The Palace of Coudenberg is the perfect place in Belgium for royalty and archaeology enthusiasts.

This former home of Charles V and other European rulers between the 12th and 18th centuries used to tower over Brussels.

However, the building was accidentally destructed by flames in 1731.

Around 4 decades later, the ruins of the palace were pulled down to make way for the Place Royale’s construction.

This underground archeological site of passages and chambers allows visits to the palace’s main buildings and Rue Isabelle.

The BELvue Museum offers entrance to the Palace of Coudenberg. Hence, if you plan on visiting one, you might as well see the other!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

24. Erasmus House

Erasmus House is a museum and historical site located in Anderlecht, a suburb of Brussels.

The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the renowned Dutch philosopher and humanist, Desiderius Erasmus.

Explore the various exhibits, which include artefacts, manuscripts, and paintings that tell the story of Erasmus’s life and work.

In addition to the indoor exhibits, the museum boasts a stunning garden and a tranquil courtyard, providing visitors with an opportunity for relaxation and contemplation.

Erasmus House is a great place to visit for anyone who wants to learn about the history and beauty of Europe.

It’s particularly important for understanding the impact of Erasmus on the Renaissance and humanism.

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

25. Halle Gate

The Halle Gate (or Porte de Hal) is a former Medieval city gate. Unfortunately, it is the only remaining one in the area and is now preserved as a military museum.

Built in the 1380s and restored in the 1800s with a neo-Gothic design, the Halle Gate will take you centuries back.

While the architecture alone is worth a stop, the landmark’s exceptionally curated exhibitions will give you a better understanding of how medieval Brussels shaped the present-day one.

The collection of relevant pieces, such as parade armours and armaments, fortifications, and multimedia elements will walk you through medieval Brussels, its history, and its military defences.

The museum also hosts various temporary exhibits, which are a good reason to return from time to time.

You can also climb 169 steps to the rooftop to see a spectacular panoramic view of Brussels.

If you love architecture and history, you will not regret making a stop at Halle Gate.

There are a few museums in Brussels that are open on Mondays and Halle Gate is one of them!

BEST MUSEUMS IN BRUSSELS

26. GardeRobe MannekenPis

The Manneken Pis, a fountain sculpture that depicts a naked little boy, is a famous landmark in Belgium. 

And if you are a fan of visual and fine art or the piece specifically, you should not miss the chance of visiting the GardeRobe MannekenPis. 

The GardeRobe MannekenPis is a museum dedicated to the celebrated statue’s costumes.

While the growing collection is home to over about thousand pieces, the museum offers exhibits of only a hundred outfits at a time for protection and preservation purposes. 

Nevertheless, they offer two screens that show the entire collection.

Because this Belgium museum changes the exhibited outfits regularly, you will see different ones on each visit!

Exhibit themes include celebrities, folklore and carnivals, geographical location, and sports, among others!