Lifestyle in Brussels

The lifestyle in Brussels is vibrant and exciting, offering expats a delightfully cosmopolitan and culturally fascinating experience. As the headquarters of organisations such as NATO and the EU, the city gives a sense of being at the centre of an integral cog in the wheel of European society.

While Brussels is best known for its cultural and architectural attractions, expats will also be able to enjoy world-class sports facilities and natural beauty. There's also an abundance of options when it comes to restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping in Brussels.

Shopping in Brussels

For designer clothing and boutiques, expats can peruse the aisles in the Boulevard de Waterloo and Avenue Louise, where famous luxury brands adorn the shop windows.

The Rue Neuve is one of the longest streets in Brussels. It's famous for being a pedestrian-only shopping heaven. Chain stores also abound, while a number of small shops and boutiques can be found between the Grand Place and the Rue Lemonnier.

Nightlife in Brussels

While the nightlife in Brussels may not rival that of its European neighbours, the city still provides a wonderful selection of pubs, overflowing with Belgium's best beers, not to mention trendy clubs and live music venues.

Most residents head to their local pub for a few pints of their favourite brew before going out to dinner and enjoying a night out on the town. Happy hour is a jovial affair, especially at the Place de Brouckère, where there are many after-work drinking holes.

If you're in the mood for pulsating basslines at high volumes, you're sure to find them in the bars and clubs that light up the strip on Rue du Marché au Charbon. On the other hand, the young, wealthy and trendy prefer to be seen at clubs and bars of Upper Town in the city centre. 

Eating out in Brussels

From mouthwatering street food to fine-dining restaurants, Brussels is a fantastic city for foodies of all inclinations. Feast on frites (fries) served fresh from streetside stalls, indulge in a traditional Belgian waffle, or while away a few hours over a delicious brunch.

When deciding where to go, skip the tourist traps and instead ask locals for their recommendations. This is often the best way to find out about hidden gems and experience authentic Belgian cuisine. 

Outdoor activities and sports in Brussels

Expats are often surprised to learn about the abundance of green space in Brussels, which boasts parks, woodlands and sports facilities. There are several parks in the city centre, including the Botanical Garden and Leopold Park.

The Sonian Forest is the most impressive of these outdoor attractions. Known as la Forêt de Soignes in French and Zoniënwoud in Dutch, the forest can be found at the city's southeastern edge and extends over three Belgian regions. The Sonian is famous for being one of Europe's most beautiful beech forests and is home to wild boar and deer.

For expats who prefer their outdoor adventures a bit tamer, the south of the city has many green spaces popular with joggers, cyclists, and picnickers.

Active expats will also have access to countless health clubs, gyms, and sports clubs in the city. The most prominent sports venue in Brussels is undoubtedly the King Baudouin Stadium, which hosts national football and rugby matches.

Sport and Fitness in Brussels

Meeting people and making friends in Brussels

Moving to a new city like Brussels presents the exhilarating opportunity to create new social networks and friendships. With its multicultural and international environment, there are many organisations and platforms that make it easier for expats to integrate into the city's social scene and meet new people.

Women's International Club of Brussels

Founded in 1958, the Women's International Club of Brussels (WIC) is a dynamic organisation committed to facilitating friendship and understanding among women of all nationalities residing in Belgium. 

WIC offers a variety of activities, including cultural tours, book clubs, language groups, and charity events, providing numerous opportunities for expat women to connect, learn and develop strong social networks within the community. This is a wonderful platform for women to establish lasting friendships and engage meaningfully in their new home city.

American Club of Brussels

Established in 1921, the American Club of Brussels provides a platform for Americans in Brussels to network, socialize and get involved in the local community. While the organisation was originally intended for American expats, it welcomes members of all nationalities, making it a vibrant, diverse place to forge new connections and friendships.

British Charitable Fund

This not-for-profit organisation has a history dating back to the early 1800s and is the only registered charity supporting the needs of British citizens in Belgium. You can get involved by donating or volunteering your time, and it's a fantastic way to make new and meaningful connections.