Brussels | Belgium 2022

Our next home base after leaving Bordeaux was Brussels, a city that quickly won our hearts. It’s beautifully organized, blending medieval charm with modern energy. To this day, it remains Cole’s favorite city! The boys got a kick out of visiting the famous Manneken Pis every day, eager to see which quirky outfit he was wearing. They also couldn’t stop laughing at the funny & risqué pastries and cookies on display, making us laugh right along with them!

We spent our days wandering the streets, admiring the city’s breathtaking architecture, stopping at playgrounds, and indulging in delicious local treats. The highlight of the old town is the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by ornate 17th-century guildhalls and the striking Town Hall, a Gothic masterpiece that soars over the square. It’s a place that feels larger than life, buzzing with history and energy. Another highlight was the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, a stunning Gothic church whose construction began in the 11th century. Inside, we admired its soaring stained glass windows, and even ventured down into the crypt, where the ancient foundations of the church are still preserved.

Our hotel, the Novotel Brussels City Centre, couldn’t have been better located—right in the heart of the old town, within walking distance to all the major attractions. The added bonus of a pool made it a perfect choice for traveling with kids, offering the boys a chance to unwind after long days of exploring.

The food in Brussels turned out to be both approachable for the boys and endlessly interesting for us. While Belgium is often known for adopting and perfecting dishes from neighboring countries, the city felt like a true cultural melting pot. One of our favorite memories was dining at a cozy Italian restaurant in the old town. When Cole decided he wasn’t in the mood for pasta and wanted a burger instead, the server didn’t hesitate—he simply ordered one from a neighboring restaurant and brought it right to our table, adding it seamlessly to our bill. It was such a warm example of how the local restaurants work together, and it made the meal even more memorable. I personally indulged in lasagna several nights in a row, and it was fascinating to see each chef’s unique interpretation of the same dish.

Brussels surprised us at every turn. We stumbled upon vibrant street art and colorful murals, watched lively street performers, and even caught sight of a police training session right in the city center. Between its charm, culture, and humor, Brussels was a joy to experience—and we can’t wait to return!