Introduction
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cosmopolitan culture, the city blends French and Flemish influences. It’s famous for its medieval Grand Place, Art Nouveau buildings, delicious waffles, and, of course, world-class chocolate. Brussels is also a political and economic hub, home to major EU institutions and international organizations. Despite its global stature, it maintains a charming, walkable old town and a lively arts and café scene.
- Pierre Marcolini – Haute Couture Chocolate
If chocolate had a fashion week, Pierre Marcolini would be on the runway. Known for his sleek boutiques and refined taste, Marcolini sources rare cocoa beans directly from growers across the globe. His creations are elegant, often infused with unexpected flavors like yuzu, earl grey, or passionfruit. The flagship store near the Sablon is a sensory experience, where artistry meets indulgence.
Don’t miss: His seasonal collections and minimalist chocolate tablets, which showcase single-origin beans.
- Neuhaus – The Birthplace of the Praline
Founded in 1857, Neuhaus is where the Belgian praline was invented. With its origins in a Brussels pharmacy, the brand revolutionized chocolate-making in 1912 with filled pralines. Today, Neuhaus continues to uphold tradition while offering rich, smooth flavors crafted with sustainably sourced ingredients.
Don’t miss: The Discovery Collection or the Caprice praline—an elegant bite of cream, nougatine, and ganache.
- Mary – Royal Warrant Holder
Mary Chocolatier, established in 1919, holds a Royal Warrant, meaning it supplies chocolate to the Belgian royal family. Its boutiques, with vintage-style interiors, offer an experience as refined as its chocolates. Known for delicate pralines and beautifully wrapped boxes, Mary is a symbol of elegance and heritage.
Don’t miss: The Champagne truffles and ganache-filled pralines in gold-embossed boxes.
- Wittamer – Luxury and Legacy at Sablon
Situated on the Grand Sablon, Wittamer has been serving chocolate lovers since 1910. With a strong emphasis on tradition, it’s a place to enjoy rich pralines and pastries in a chic tea room setting. The shop has supplied the royal court and is known for balancing innovation with its historical roots.
Don’t miss: The pralines filled with coffee cream or speculoos, and enjoy them with a coffee in their upstairs salon.
- Laurent Gerbaud – Sweet Meets Savory
For something a little different, head to Laurent Gerbaud, a boutique chocolatier near the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. Gerbaud infuses his chocolates with Mediterranean ingredients like figs, Chinese ginger, sea salt, and Sicilian almonds. His creations avoid added sugars and use only natural sweeteners, making for a bold, refined taste.
Don’t miss: The chocolate-covered orange peel and spicy truffle collections.
- Leonidas – Affordable Belgian Quality
Not every great chocolate has to be expensive. Leonidas is beloved by locals for its fresh, accessible pralines that offer great taste at reasonable prices. With stores across Brussels, it’s easy to pop in and grab a box filled with classic favorites.
Don’t miss: The Manon café praline—a white chocolate shell filled with coffee cream and a crunchy hazelnut.
- Passion Chocolat – Artisan and Family-Owned
Passion Chocolat is a lesser-known gem offering handcrafted treats made in small batches. With boutiques in Sablon and Stockel, this family-run shop focuses on traditional recipes, rich fillings, and the use of 100% cocoa butter.
Don’t miss: The intense dark chocolate ganache and the pistachio pralines.
- Frederic Blondeel – Bean-to-Bar Expertise
For those who care about origin and craftsmanship, Frederic Blondeel offers an immersive experience. One of the few bean-to-bar producers in Brussels, Blondeel roasts and processes his own beans, resulting in chocolate with unmatched depth and complexity.
Don’t miss: The tasting bar where you can sip hot chocolate while watching the production process unfold.
- Chocolatier Elisabeth – A Hidden Treasure
With several quaint locations around central Brussels, Chocolatier Elisabeth is a boutique that combines rustic charm with artisan perfection. Their offerings range from chocolate-dipped fruits and caramels to unique seasonal specials and gift boxes.
Don’t miss: The violet-infused chocolates and caramelized hazelnuts.
- Maison Dandoy – Not Just Speculoos
Though better known for its speculoos (traditional spiced cookies), Maison Dandoy also creates delightful chocolate-dipped versions and other cocoa-based treats. It’s a must-visit for those who want a cross between bakery and chocolatier.
Don’t miss: The speculoos chocolate bark and the crispy butter cookies dipped in dark chocolate.
Where to Stay in Brussels
- City Centre (Grand Place / Central Station)
Best for first-time visitors
Stay here if you want to be within walking distance of iconic sights like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. It’s lively, historic, and filled with cafes, shops, and museums.
Top Hotels:
- Hotel Amigo (5★) – Elegant, next to Grand Place.
- The Dominican (4★) – Stylish, modern boutique hotel.
- Motel One Brussels (3★) – Great value with designer interiors.
- Ixelles / Avenue Louise
Best for boutique shopping and a local vibe
A trendy, upscale neighborhood with art galleries, fashion stores, and ethnic eateries. It offers a quieter stay while still being close to the action.
Top Hotels:
- Steigenberger Wiltcher’s (5★) – Classic luxury on Avenue Louise.
- Made in Louise (3★) – Cozy, affordable boutique hotel with charm.
- Sablon / Marolles
Best for art lovers and chocolate hunters
This stylish district is home to antique shops, chocolatiers, and the beautiful Sablon Church. Great for weekend markets and quieter charm.
Top Hotels:
- 9Hotel Sablon (4★) – Boutique comfort near top chocolate shops.
- NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon (4★) – Excellent location and service.
Things to Do in Brussels
- Explore the Grand Place (Grote Markt)
Brussels’ iconic central square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by ornate 17th-century guildhalls and the majestic Town Hall. It’s even more stunning lit up at night or during the famous Flower Carpet (every two years in August).
- Visit the Atomium
A futuristic landmark from the 1958 World Expo, the Atomium offers panoramic views, exhibitions inside its steel spheres, and a quirky photo op. It’s both a museum and architectural wonder.
- Tour Belgian Chocolate Shops
You can’t visit Brussels without indulging in its chocolate culture. Take a self-guided tasting or join a chocolate-making workshop. Don’t miss Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, and Laurent Gerbaud.
Day Trips from Brussels
- Bruges – The Fairytale City
Travel time: ~1 hour by train
Step into a medieval postcard in Bruges with its cobbled streets, canals, and Gothic architecture. Highlights include the Belfry Tower, Markt Square, and a boat tour through the canals.
Must-do: Climb the Belfry, visit the Groeningemuseum, and try handmade lace and chocolate.
- Ghent – A Historic Yet Hip City
Travel time: ~40 minutes by train
A blend of medieval charm and youthful energy, Ghent boasts a vibrant arts scene, riverside cafes, and impressive landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Must-do: View the Van Eyck altarpiece and enjoy a canal cruise with local beer.
- Antwerp – Fashion and Diamonds Capital
Travel time: ~45 minutes by train
Antwerp combines high fashion, rich history, and a thriving port culture. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Rubens House, and the trendy Zuid district.
Must-do: Explore the Diamond District and shop in the city’s top design boutiques.
