"The seat of the Union" Brussels by Kulprit

For me, at least, Brussels is not an obvious destination. In my mind it is associated with politicians and law imposition rather than culture or fun. While Brussels does have a disproportionate number of buildings sporting the star-flecked blue banner of the EU the European and Belgian capital does have its gems.
When you learn that croissants are, in fact, a Belgian invention rather than French and when one bears legendary Belgian chocolate in mind, one begins to appreciate the mark that this country has left to the world.
Brussels has all the hallmarks of a typically continental European city. It has a strong dining and cafe culture and a heritage which stretches back into the mists of the past. Its status in Europe, however, does bring its oddities. Hotels, for example, are more expensive during the week than at the weekend. This is because the week sees a flood of people arriving at the city on EU business. Weekend brings a mass migration of EU workers to their homes elsewhere so parts of the city quieten down considerably.
One part of Brussels that remains a hive of activity all week long, however, is Grand Place. This impressive square with its towering gilded architecture is a people watching paradise with outdoor seating at its cafés and a myriad of little back streets surrounding it.
The area on one side of the square is thronged with restaurants, each with a persuasive employee or owner standing outside hassling passersby to enter and dine. I find that approach off putting and, having tried one restaurant and spoken to a local about them I suggest that they are generally overpriced and under-impressive.
The opposite side of Grand Place - where the huge 150 foot steeple stands - is the less brash but preferable side dine. It's where the locals are more likely to be found.
Brussels doesn't 'wow' me in the way that Florence or Paris does but, with its EU status there are incredible deals to be had on flights and if one such deal were to pop up temptingly I'd certainly be happy to return.

• Pros:Good food, beer and cheap to get to
• Cons:Can be expensive in parts once you get there
• In a nutshell:Worth a short visit