Recommendations

• Head out to the twelfth-century Kasteel van Groot-Bijgaarden, a castle set within sprawling 14-hectare grounds complete with a spectacular moat. In springtime, Groot-Bijgaarden is the site of Brussels' famous spring flower exhibition, Floralia Brussels, and in winter, the gardens are illuminated by LED lanterns as part of the Lightopia festival.
  

• Pay a visit to the historic Théâtre Royal de Toone, the only traditional Brussels marionette theatre still in operation today, to catch a retelling of a classic tale like Dracula, Faust or the Three Musketeers.

• For the most authentic experience of Belgium's capital, head to the trendy Marolles district. The area is bursting with independent cafés, neighbourhood eateries and a daily market that sprawls across the Place du Jeu de Balle. You'll likely overhear the traditional Brusseleir dialect being spoken here.