Car Hire Brussels - Mini guide to Brussels

Brussels, one of Europe's only bilingual capital cities and undisputed crossroads of Europe, continues to grow and thrive as a major center for international relations, industry and trade..

Its old tradition of strong international relations is widely symbolized by it’s grand halls, fabulous architecture and the Pis Mannekin, the sculpture of a young boy urinating, are now the city's proud symbols.

The city of Brussels is divided into two areas known as the Lower and Upper Towns. The Lower Town, with its medieval town center was built around the Grand Place. The superb structure includes an intricately designed 100m-high tower, topped by a gilded statue of St Michel, and is open for guided tours. The spectacular square outside offers sidewalk cafes, cellar restaurants and the splendidly Gothic Hôtel de Ville (Brussels Town Hall). Many roads are pedestrianised and its cobbled streets lead to attractions such as Ste Catherinen, Ilôt Sacré and Marolles.

The Upper Town is very different in atmosphere and appearance, comprising wide boulevards, major museums and up-market shopping areas, especially in Sablon and Ave Louise. The Belgian parliament building is also found here and is worth a look. Despite being Belgium's national symbol and known throughout the world, the Manneken Pis fountain is actually rather disappointing due to it’s size – very small.

The Cathédrale des Sts Michel and Gudule is a beautiful twin-towered cathedral located in parvis ste Gudule, slightly away from the city centre.