Weekends in Brussels are always fun and filled with activities. From social events hosted by local restaurants to cultural events at museums and theaters. There is something for every weekend mood. In this blog, I’ll be sharing my favorite weekend activities as an expat in Belgium who prefers to unwind.

Adventure in the local parks

Spring has officially arrived in Brussels. The flowers are blooming, the days are longer and the locals can be seen more frequently outside of their houses. After such a harsh winter, the change is truly welcome. That’s why my first suggestion is to visit a local park in Brussels.

Bois de la cambre

My favorite park in Brussels is Bois de la cambre. It is an English-style park that resembles a small forest. This is quite fitting as the word ‘Bois’ in French means ‘woods’. The park is peaceful and offers many weekend activities. For example, authorities completely close off the roads surrounding the park to cars. They reserve them for cycling, running and even roller skating. There are also large open fields that are perfect for picnics with friends or soaking in the spring sun.

At the center of the park is Robinson Island, it is home to a restaurant called Chalet Robinson. During the weekend, you can rent peddle boats to explore the lake for €20 per hour. Additionally, the restaurant supplies a small ferry to transport visitors across the water for just €1. Multiple cabin restaurants sit around Bois de la cambre. I recommend Woodpeckers and Le Kiosque for coffee and snacks, and Le Flore for a quiet lunch. There are many parks in Brussels that offer different landscapes and environments. Here is a list of some interesting parks: Jardin du Roi, Brugmannpark and Parc Tenbosch.

Experience Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms are a native tree to Japan but they can also be found in many countries across Europe. Surprisingly, Belgium has loads. Cherry blossoms are special because they only bloom for two weeks every year– usually in April. They have vibrant pink flowers and are a spectacle to see. I first spotted them while on a tram and was curious to know more. Later, I discovered a useful blog that lists the best cherry blossom locations around the city. I will link it below. Cherry blossom hunting in Brussels is a fun and time-sensitive weekend activity. It is also a great way to explore small towns and areas within Brussels.

https://lesexplorateursdumonde.com/fr/Belgique/cerisiers-en-fleurs-bruxelles

Traditional Japanese Garden

Another cherry blossom experience near Brussels is the traditional Japanese garden in Hasselt. It is the largest Japanese garden in Belgium. Their cherry blossom season starts from the 1st of March and ends on the 13th of April. The garden is a two-hour train ride from Brussels and the standard entrance fee is €7. It is perfect for a day trip as the garden also has food stalls. Visitors can bring their own picnics too.

Visit Local Patisseries and Boulangeries

Living in Belgium means having easy access to artisanal patisseries and boulangeries. Artisanal establishments make some of the freshest and delicious pastries and sandwiches all over the world because they are handmade. In Belgium, sandwiches are a popular lunch choice for the locals. The sandwiches that I am talking about are not a typical sandwich. They are crunchy baguettes filled to the brim with fresh ingredients. This is one of my favorite weekend activities to do with friends. Together you can explore the city and find hidden food gems that sell these tasty creations. Some of my favorites that I’ve found are:

Witamers

• It is a Belgian patisserie that was established in 1910. It is also one of the few establishments that hold a Royal Belgian Warrant. Witamers offers pastries, chocolates, macaroons and gelato. They have two locations in Brussels: Place du Grand Sablon and Rue Edith Cavell. Both have outdoor terraces that are essential for the warm spring days.
• I highly recommend their croissants.

Le Pain d’Antan

• It is an artisanal boulangerie that offers bread, brioches, pies and Belgian sandwiches. Their goods are exceptionally made with high quality flour, fresh ingredients and traditional baking methods. The name of the store means ‘Old-fashioned bread”. Their prices are very good and cater towards the locals.

Cafe natural

• Is a cafe that is ideal for an afternoon coffee on Avenue Louise. It has the perfect coffee shop setting with interior window seating overlooking the bustling shopping street.
• I highly recommend trying their specialty coffee called a Crème brûlée cappuccino.

Experience Belgian Waffles

Waffles are a big part of Belgian cuisine and culture. They have been here since the middle ages and are made with care and pride. A fun fact about Belgium: Each region of Belgium has it’s own style of waffle! The two most popular styles are the Brussels and Liège waffles. A Brussels waffle is rectangular and airy. While a Liège waffle is more irregularly shaped, denser and has caramelized bits of sugar on the inside.

The best place to try a waffle in Brussels is around the Grand Place. There are many places that sell waffles, from restaurants to street vendors. This is one of the weekend activities that will allow you to experience the true atmosphere of the city center.

Maison Dandoy

For a well-priced and unique experience, I recommend Maison Dandoy on Rue Charles Buls. I went to this particular location with my partner who was visiting Brussels from London. I couldn’t let him go home without tasting an authentic Belgian waffle. We both got to enjoy our waffles in a beautiful tearoom on the second story of the Maison Dandoy building. They offer classic waffle and topping combinations but also the choice to create your own. The price per topped waffle ranges from €10 to €13.

Discover Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a notable architectural and design movement from the 1890’s. It was started by a Belgian architect named Victor Horta. The movement was first birthed in Brussels and thereafter spread across Europe. The architectural style is characterized by whiplash lines, nature-inspired motifs and elegant ornamentation.

Today art nouveau can still be spotted throughout many of the buildings in Brussels. It is a unique architectural aspect about the city that can be enjoyed as a weekend activity. Guided tours of the most iconic art nouveau buildings are available. You can find these tours on websites like Get Your Guide. Alternatively, you can join a two-hour free walking tour offered by Bravo Discovery.

Conclusion: What to do in Brussels on the weekend

Brussels offers plenty of weekend activities—you just have to go with how you are feeling. Maybe you’re in the mood for some peace in nature, curious to learn more about Belgian culture, or looking to meet people at social events. As an expat, I’ve found that mixing small amounts of each helps me make the most of my time here.

Feel free to reach out to me on social media and share your favorite weekend activities- whether you’re in Brussels or elsewhere in the world!

Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, For you shall be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, For you shall laugh.

Luke 6:20-21