In November John and I hopped on the Thalys train and enjoyed a mini break in Brussels. We soaked up the culture as well as sampling some of the other Belgian specialities.  See my recommended restaurants and bars.

John outside the Royal Palace in Brussels

We were staying near the Royal Palace.

The Royal Palace in Brussels

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is Fiona outside the Magritte Museum in Belgium

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the recently opened Rene Magritte Musem. It's on Place Royale and show cases an extensive collection of the surrealist painter's life and works.

Antiques market at place du Grand Sablon, Brussels

 

 

 

 

The pretty place du Grand Sablon is full of upscale chocolate and antique shops and an antiques market takes place at the weekend.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notre Dame de la Chapelle, Brussels

 

 

 

 

 

Nearby is the Gothic church, the Notre Dame de la Chapelle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christmas market at place Sainte Catherine, Brussels

One evening we visited the lively place Sainte Catherine, an area famous for its seafood restaurants.

Fiona at place Sainte Catherine, Brussels

 

 

 

 

After strolling around the Christmas market past the stalls offering gluhwein, waffles and wooden Christmas ornaments, we dined at an excellent fish restaurant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended Restaurants

Eb en Vloed
Place Sainte Catherine 22, Brussels
A trendy fish restaurant with an elegant black and white interior serving fabulous seasonal seafood.

Le Falstaff
www.lefalstaff.be
An Art Deco/Art Nouveau bar and restaurant. A great place for hearty Belgian fare such as chips and beer.

Check out my recommendations for other restaurants I have enjoyed visiting whilst on holiday around the world.

See more holiday photos.