We are having an unexpected stay in Brussels for three nights this week. Any recommendations? We do want to train to Bruges one day. Thanks for the help

Go to Antwerp!we love antiques and only find Brussels interesting for a day or 2 when they have a sale or show after the Grand Place it bores me!!

I used to live in Brussels - if you give it a chance there is quite a lot to do. I don't know what your interests are but I always recommend seeing some Art Nouveau, which is the main architectural style from the late 19th century / early 20th century. At the very least see the Museum of Musical Instruments, which is in an old department store called "Old England". It is a spectacular example of the style. I would also try to fit in a visit to the Horta Museum, which is in St.-Gilles, one of the suburbs. It is the former home of the architect Victor Horta, and the attention to detail is incredible. Of course see the Grand' Place (one of Europe's best squares), Place du Grand Sablon (think chocolate shops and pretty area), have a waffle at Dandoy (Rue Charles Buls). Visit one of the markets, like the flea market at Place du Jeu de Balle. Perhaps start by reading up a little about Brussels first (http://www.fodors.com/world/europe/belgium/brussels/) and then come back and ask some more questions based on your interests.

Lavandula

Drink beer. Belgium is the heart of the world's beermaking industry, from the biggest corporation, Anheuser-Busch InBev, to tiny traditional brewers that capture the yeast out of the air. A little searching past the tourist trade should uncover atmospheric pubs with exotic offerings. Try http://beerme.com/region.php?382

Thanks much. When we get settled there I will read more and ask more questions. We do have already scheduled 3 days in Amsterdam after Brussels. The Brussels portion was unplanned

I agree with lavandula and disagree with avalon2--IMO there is a lot to see in Brussels beyond the Grand Place. There is another thread going with questions about day trips other than Bruges.

My TR from 2011 give ideas of things to do/areas to explore in Brussels itself plus some other day trips
http://www.fodors.com/community/euro...etherlands.cfm

I recommend the Horta museum but would caution that it has limited opening hours so you have to plan around it.

At the end of my TR is a link to another thread with beer recommendations

If it rains (and it's always a likelihood in Brussels), head underground to the Coudenberg Museum, the remains of an underground palace in the Mont des Arts area, near the Magritte Museum, which is also a must-see.