Brussels isn’t known for cheap eats or bargain entertainment, but here are our tips for some sneaky free frivolities…
1. Stroll the Comic Strip Route
A series of 50 murals adorn the streets, celebrating the city’s illustrated heritage – home to Tintin and more. brusselsinternational.be.2
2. Get religion in the Cathedral
Gaze at the richly decorated façade before popping in to admire the superb stained-glass windows.
3. Tour the European Parliament
See where your euros are going – tours run 10am and 3pm Mon-Thu, 10am Fri (www.europarl.europa.eu).
4. Get arty
Visit the Musée Communal d’Ixelles (www.fading.museumofixelles.be) to see works by Magritte and Delvaux, or nearby Constantin Meunier Museum (www.fine-arts-museum.be) for realist bronze sculptures.
5. Gawp at the Palais de Justice
Admire (or abhor) the recently restored, OTT law courts – a lift gives access to a viewing platform with sweeping city vistas.
6. Pack a Parc du Cinquantenaire picnic
Have a green break in this extensive park – then visit the Royal Army and Military History Museum next door (www.klm-mra.be).
7. Browse the uncommon markets
Window-shop swanky stalls at the weekend antique market on Place du Grand Sablon; exotic foods and spices at the Gare du Midi (Sun); and the rambling flea market at the Place du Jeu-de-Balle (daily).
