Arts & Culture
Best Museums in Brussels for Art and History Lovers
Best Museums in Brussels for Art and History Lovers
The capital of Belgium will surely delight those fascinated with history and various art styles. Here’s what not to miss on your next visit.
Brussels may be popular as a cultural hub, but not many people know that it’s home to so many museums. In fact, the number is nearing 100 as peculiar smaller museums keep emerging and for a good reason – Belgium’s capital city is filled with treasures that can satisfy the appetite of every avid museum-goer.
If you love history, art, and seeing niche collections that are hard to find elsewhere, Brussels is the city for you. Take a look at the following list of the best museums in Brussels and make sure you visit them on your next trip.
1. Brussels City Museum
What better place to start your museum tour than at the place that showcases the fascinating history of the very city?
The Brussels City Museum building is an architectural wonder in its own right. It’s made in the Neo-Gothic style and has been a national heritage site ever since 1936. This museum also has a name to match – Maison du Roi, which is French for The King’s Household.
There are over 7,000 exhibits in the museum, including paintings, maps, sculptures, and porcelain figurines. The insight into the city’s history that you’ll get from the museum offers an ideal beginning of your journey.
2. Museum of Original Figurines
Entirely devoted to comic book characters and their three-dimensional representations, the Museum of Original Figurines is a wonderland for comic book fans. It’s where you can find exhibits covering classical and modern American comics, Japanese manga, and local Belgian and Flemish editions.
The museum also showcases the various stages every comic book passes through before it’s finalized. If you have at least a passing interest in this subject, you’ll get a lot from your visit. And if you’re a real comic book lover, you could proceed to the Comics Art Museum for even more great experiences.
3. Brussels Gueuze Museum
Located in the Cantillon Brewery, the Brussels Gueuze Museum is all about the history of beer. It’s where you can see various pieces of brewing equipment that are a century old or older. The museum gets its name from a particular variety of beer made without yeast.
The recipe and method of making Gueuze beer stem from the Middle Ages and the visit to this museum will let you learn how to brew the rare sort. The reason you’ll have that chance is that you’ll be visiting the last brewery that still produces Gueuze beer.
4. Museum of Natural Sciences
The amazing Museum of Natural Sciences is largely known under a different name. It’s often called the Brussels Dinosaur Museum, named as such because it’s the most expansive gallery showcasing the ancient reptiles with no match in Europe.
The dinosaurs are presented incredibly well and are, of course, fascinating. While the stars of the show are the Iguanodons, there are other equally captivating exhibits.
The Museum of Natural Sciences features other galleries as well, including those devoted to humankind and evolution. Additionally, as is the practice of many respected museums, there are yearly exhibitions that change periodically.
5. Museum of Fantastic Art
Museum of Fantastic Art is among the gems that will provide you with an experience rarely seen in other places. But the best way to describe the artwork you can find here is – strange.
It’s because the exhibits in this museum focus on the fantastical and surrealistic art done in any number of techniques. Among the otherworldly wonders that the Museum of Fantastic Art offers is the Elephant Man and works such as ‘The killer flies’ and ‘Mato Grosso mummy,’ which should give you some idea of the art direction in question.
6. Belgian Comic Strip Center
We teased the expansive collection of comic and cartoon art when talking about the Museum of Original Figurines. Now, entering the glorious Art Nouveau estate that houses the Comic Strip Center where you can explore the legends of the art form.
You’ll find here some memorable characters such as Lucky Luke, Tin Tin, the Smurfs, and more, nestled alongside some favorites of Belgian origin.
And if you want to explore more and perhaps take home some of the art, there’s an excellent book store to browse. Finally, you can stop by the restaurant located inside the center to take a break and have lunch.
7. The Clockarium
The Clockarium is precisely what you would expect from the name, but with a particular twist. This is a clock museum but the exhibits fall into a very narrow niche – most of the clocks are ceramic and made in the Art Deco style of the 1920s and 30s.
The museum collection contains over a thousand clocks that vary in shape and decoration style. It might sound extravagant, but the exhibits are well worth seeing. And since you can pause and have a nice cup of tea in the Clockarium, visiting this unique place is a great idea.
8. Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History
The Belgian Army might not be very famous on its own, but the Royal Museum provides an interesting insight into the history of European armed conflicts.
The museum houses over 100,000 various objects that tell the tale of war in Europe along with a detailed history of Belgian armed forces. The aviation section is especially fascinating, as it showcases different types of military aircraft.
9. Musical Instruments Museum
The Musical Instruments Museum has an impressive collection of over 1,100 instruments, including modern and historical examples. The exhibits are divided into four galleries and you can take an audio tour, which is especially exciting.
It’s also interactive, as the music played on a particular instrument is transferred via WiFi straight to your headphones, allowing you to hear the instruments in action. The museum also features additional amenities, such as a workshop space, concert hall, library, shop, and a restaurant on the roof.
All things considered, this is one of the most enjoyable experiences for music lovers.
10. Magritte Museum
Rene Magritte was a world-famous artist who produced some of the greatest examples of the surrealist school of Verism. Although some of his works are housed in galleries around the world, the museum named after him has been quite respectable ever since it opened in 2009.
The artwork exhibited in the Magritte Museum showcases the evolution of the artist’s personal style. You’ll also find the story of his artistic development further detailed through letters and videos.
A Place of Incredible Culture and History
Brussels is very rich in historical heritage and the abundance of museums shows that cultural treasure to everybody interested.
From the classical arts to the modern and abstract, there’s much to see and the only limiting factor might be the lack of time. That’s why if you love visiting museums and learning about history and culture, Brussels will be a city you’ll return to multiple times.
Best Cities
Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)
Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)
Is Australia next on your to-visit list? We suggest taking a trip to Adelaide, the beautiful cosmopolitan city on the coast of Gulf St Vincent. Its cultural offering is spectacular, but that’s not all you can enjoy.
Adelaide is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Australia, and for a good reason. It’s an ideal mix of culture, fun, and nature. Not to mention that it’s a heaven for animal lovers, especially if you have time to visit nearby places.
Out of all the fantastic tourist spots in Adelaide, you’ll find in the following a list of 11 favorites. These are some of the attractions and places that you simply can’t afford to miss while in this sophisticated city.
1. Central Market
The best place to learn about local food and drinks is the Adelaide Central Market. And if you’re a fan of always lively places, the market is a perfect launching pad for exploring Adelaide. It’s where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious sweets, and then some.
And if you stop by on a Friday night, you can also enjoy live music. There are also workshops for kids, cooking lessons, and other exciting activities, depending on the season.
2. Glenelg Beach
A metropolis with a beach that’s only 25 minutes away sounds like a dream. And this is exactly what you get in Adelaide.
Glenelg Beach, one of the most famous in all of Australia, is easily accessible by tram and will amaze you with its awesome sunset. It’s perfect for photographers and romantic souls who want to enjoy a cup of coffee or cocktail in one of the cozy cafés along the beach.
3. Haigh’s Chocolate Store
Are you up for fine chocolates? If so, Haigh’s Chocolate Store is a logical stop on your route.
The factory is a family-owned business and is where the best South Australian sweets are born. The factory’s part of a host of Adelaide city tours, and it’s where you’ll learn all about the chocolate-making process.
Haigh’s selection includes more than 250 types of chocolates in all shapes and sizes imaginable. You might want to bring home at least one gift box as a souvenir.
4. North Terrace
Adelaide’s famous boulevard’s filled with historical sites and cultural monuments. And if you’re not sure where to start, this may be perfect. You’ll first see the Parliament House, undoubtedly the city’s most impressive building.
And as you continue the walk, you can visit the State Library of South Australia, various museums and galleries, and the University of Adelaide campus.
You may have to spend a whole day to fully take in these examples of splendid architecture.
5. Art Gallery of South Australia
As you walk down and explore North Terrace, make sure to stop by the Art Gallery of South Australia. Located in Adelaide’s primary cultural area, this Victorian building houses some superb art collections.
You’ll have a chance to see different kinds of artworks – from the colonial days to the contemporary. Whether you favor sculptures, paintings, or photography, you’ll find something to enjoy in this gallery.
6. The Adelaide Oval
There’s something for sports fans as well among the many tourist places in Adelaide. Whether it’s the cricket or soccer season, the famous Adelaide Oval is always packed.
Like in many European cities, the stadium is also a huge tourist attraction. It’s located in the Riverbank Precinct and can hold thousands of spectators. More than 16 sports competitions have taken place at this historic stadium.
7. Barossa Valley
As you know, Australia is one of the world’s major wine-producing countries. The Barossa Valley is the best-regarded wine region in South Australia and has a lot to offer all visitors.
Aside from the remarkable wines to try, you’ll find excellent food and even golf courses and cycling tracks. There are also a few galleries to visit for those who are into art.
If you have the time, you might want to consider spending a few days in this beautiful valley.
8. National Wine Centre
Speaking of Australian wines, the National Wine Centre isn’t off the beaten path and certainly worth a visit.
It’s the place to attend all types of wine events, including tastings and interactive wine discovery journeys. And if you’d like to learn more about wines a bit more, you should know the Centre is also an enology research institute.
9. Adelaide Zoo
One of the unavoidable tourist attractions in Adelaide, Australia is the Zoo. Close to 300 species of animals live here. You’ll catch a glimpse of everything, from local animals to the most exotic, including the southern hemisphere’s only couple of giant pandas.
A visit to the Adelaide Zoo is an excellent choice for families with kids. The tour can include interactive presentations and a petting zoo of farm animals. There’s also a unique vertical garden and a huge terrarium.
10. Botanic Garden
Off North Terrace Boulevard, the Adelaide Botanic Garden has a long history. It’s home to many medicinal plants, for starters. You’ll also find rainforest plants, Amazon water lilies, the oldest fig trees in Australia, and more.
The best thing about the Adelaide Botanic Garden? It’s open all year round and it doesn’t cost a dime! The guided tour is also free.
11. Cleland Wildlife Park
Who knew that a wildlife park could be only 20 minutes away from the city center? While in Adelaide, don’t forget to stop by the Cleland Conservation Park.
At the park, you can get your daily dose of kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and koalas. Not only can you see them up close, but you can also feed and cuddle them.
This park is among the most visited tourist places near Adelaide. It’s fantastic for photographers, as well as kids who want a souvenir photo of them cuddling a koala.
Romantic Trips
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
You shouldn’t postpone your trip to Savannah. See a city packed with American history, great scenery, and tons of attractions.
Visiting one of the oldest cities in the south should be on anyone’s list of vacation ideas – whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or nature enthusiast. That’s because Savannah has a bit of everything for everyone.
The city is a piece of living history, but with all the modern amenities and premium facilities.
Check out some of the top tours, attractions, and tourist spots in Savannah:
1. Relax in Forsyth Park
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This park is part of the Savannah Historic District and is recognized for its impressive scenery. And every Saturday, you can sample the local goods at the farmer’s market.
The 300-acre park offers lush landscapes, flowers, green trees, a fountain, and enough room for live concerts. It’s so picturesque that you can find pictures taken in this park all over the internet. But nothing compares to experiencing it in person.
2. A Ride Down the Historic Route
The trolley tours in Savannah are legendary. One ride covers 22 squares and lets you see some of the most important landmarks in the historic district. It’s a great choice if you’re not thinking of an extended stay but want to see as much of the city as you can.
Each tour runs about every 20 minutes, so it’s impossible to miss one. Even better, it’s a hop-on-hop-off tour. That means you can step off the ride and spend time at any hotspot on the line and hop on another trolley to continue your tour anytime.
3. Walk the Wormsloe Path
Visiting the Wormsloe Historic Site is another good idea. Before reaching the estate, you can travel on a path covered by suspended trees. It’s quite the artistic marvel in a natural site and simply breathtaking in the summer.
You can see Savanna’s oldest building that’s still standing at the site. Tours are available throughout the year and the locals even host memorable events there.
4. Visit the Museums
If you’re a fan of old ships, the Sea Maritime Museum is the place to visit. The museum has a rich collection of ship memorabilia dating back to the 1700s. What’s interesting about this is that the museum opened only in 1966.
The Telfair Museum of Art is another top tourist attraction. This museum features 19th century and 20th century art collections of both European and American origins. It also has an impressive sculpture gallery. Even the building, the 200-year-old Neoclassical Regency mansion, teems with a rich history.
Located in the Tricentennial Park is the Georgia State Railroad Museum, another tourist hotspot.
Having multiple museums that are rich with history and unique collections on display, this city will meet all your need for history.
5. Admire the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Originally built in the 1870s, the cathedral saw many restorations over the years. The first rebuild was in 1899 and restoration work carried on up until the 1990s.
Its interior features marble floors, railings, and an altar weighing 9,000lbs that came all the way from Italy. The Renaissance murals and the Great Rose Window are breathtaking and any art lover would want to see them up close.
6. Learn More About the Girl Scouts
The Girl Scouts of the USA has its origins in Savannah at the house of Juliette Gordon Low. Being an iconic organization, the founder’s home became one of the first national historic landmarks of the city.
It’s been restored to its original look in the 1880s and you can even see most of the original family furniture and memorabilia. Many of the items on display, including photographs, personal jewelry, and writings, are more personal in nature
The house isn’t a destination just for Girl Scout troops, but also for tourists of all ages. And the tour offers great insight into the Girl Scouts movement from its inception to modern times.
7. A Tour of Unfiltered History
One of the most common things to do in Savannah is to visit historic landmarks just because there are so many of them. The Owens-Thomas House is a great example of a National Historic Landmark you’ll want to check out.
It commemorates the lives of 14 slaves that lived there, and it’s done in great detail. The tour helps one to understand the complex relationships of that time by putting things in perspective.
You can also visit the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. It’s in Franklin Square, inside the oldest African Baptist Church in Savannah. The exhibit features written stories and photographs, as well as lots of information that is not widely publicized.
8. Visit Georgia’s Oldest Still Standing Fort
Old Fort Jackson is a brick fort and one of the few still standing in America. It got its name in 1812, during the war, and saw enough action during the Civil War. The Coastal Heritage Society manages the fort and sees to the continuous display of military history.
And, if you’re lucky, you might see some old cannon firing demonstrations. Talk about getting a bang for your buck while vacationing in Savannah.
9. Outdoor Activities in the Fort McAllister State Historic Park
Even if you’re not a Civil War buff or offended by anything related to the Confederacy, this park is still great to visit. Along with cannons and military memorabilia, the park features acres of natural beauty.
It’s a wonderful recreational spot right near the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah. You can enjoy various activities, like hiking, fishing, and going on picnics, and you can even camp in certain spots.
10. Experience the Local Cuisine in Unique Locations
If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Savannah, GA, you might want to try the Olde Pink House Restaurant. It’s a great restaurant and a city landmark.
You can eat inside the 1700s mansion and sample the fine dining menu. It’s so popular with both tourists and locals that it also has accommodations nearby to cater to guests who need them.
The Oldest City Is Still Bustling with Life
Savanna, GA, may be an old town, but it’s teeming with life. It has so many attractions for you to see for yourself – from old mansions and history-packed museums to fine dining and lush parks. Savannah really has it all.
That’s why it’s worth more than your average weekend trip.
Trip Ideas
The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers
The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers
Go beyond sports and Mediterranean cuisine. Madrid is a top destination for art and history enthusiasts, too.
Spain’s capital city is elegant, expansive, and very busy 24/7. It also holds some of the largest collections of European art and weaponry. And there are many museums, historic landmarks, and other repositories that you can visit. When you’re tired of taking in Spanish history, the scenic parks await.
Check out some of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid.
1. Tour the Prado Museum
What is Madrid known for? It’s many museums, one of the most famous being the Prado Museum. It opened in 1819 and now features over 2,000 paintings and hundreds of sculptures. And the exhibits have Spanish, Italian, and Flemish artist signatures.
It’s also one of the busiest museums in all of Spain. So, make sure you get your ticket early in the day. But if you’re on a tight budget, you can try to get in for free during the last two hours of the schedule.
It’s truly one of the essential Madrid sights for art and history lovers.
2. Visit the Royal Palace and Gardens
Sometimes referred to as the Spanish Versailles, it’s a royal court with impressive statues and lavish gardens. You can even take your own photos of the statues of Spanish kings and visit the apartments of King Charles the Third.
It has breathtaking interiors and features just about everything you could think of – from marble flooring and silk wall hangings to chandeliers and famous paintings. The palace walls feature works made by the likes of Goya, Rubens, Caravaggio, and other masterful artists.
The Royal Armory is also a nice stop for history buffs. The 3,000 exhibits tell the story of the Spanish military. And some of these pieces date back to the 16th century.
3. Stand in the Puerta del Sol
You can’t go to Madrid without standing in the heart of the city. It’s a big town square that acts as a central hub of transportation and occupies a unique position. That’s in reference to the sun.
But this is not just a place with gorgeous architecture and geography.
It’s also the site of many historic events. The most important being the site of where Spain made a stand against Napoleon in 1808. And it’s also the site of the Second Republic proclamation of 1931.
Aside from being rich in history, it’s known to be lively both day and night. It’s also a great place to grab something to eat or drink. And if you’re interested in the local nightlife, in and around the square are some of the hottest locales in the city.
4. Grab Your Dose of Contemporary Art
The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-see if you’re looking for something more modern. It opened in 1986, making it one of the newer, and yet highly popular, museums in the world.
It’s where you can also see the works of Picasso and Salvador Dali, among many other famous artists. The building itself has three glass towers around the elevators and a beautiful garden in its courtyard that has a variety of quirky sculptures.
The exhibit occupies over nine acres. It will take you a while to take it all in, but there are also a cafeteria and a restaurant for when you need a break.
5. Visit Spain’s Egyptian Monument
The Temple of Debod is a gift from Egypt to Spain back in 1968. It’s an ancient temple located in La Montana Park and is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.
The temple has original decorations, peaceful gardens surrounding it, and impressive shrines. A visit here’s considered as one of the most unique things to do in Madrid.
6. Tour the Archaeological Museum
Visiting the Archaeological Museum is a must if you want to learn more about Spain’s history. In fact, it has an impressive collection of artifacts that predate the Romans.
Here you’ll find pieces over 2,500 years old that still look amazing and even almost new. The restoration and preservation work on this collection is most impressive and, as an art lover or history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss it.
7. Step Into the Oasis of Buen Retiro Park
This park offers 296 acres of lush scenery away from the busy streets. While the park is still part of the town, it acts as an oasis for those seeking peace and quiet and clean air.
It’s also one of the most elegant public parks you’ll see, as the park has many fountains and reflecting pools. From time to time, you can even catch an art exhibit right here. Like any other park, you can also relax in shade here or drink a cup of coffee at an open-air café.
And for nighttime travelers, the park’s historic observatory is the place to be on a clear night.
8. Experience Street Performances at the Plaza Mayor
Madrid is a hotspot for art lovers from around the world, but it doesn’t just offer museum exhibits. There are also some lively spots that are a must-visit.
The Plaza Mayor is a large open square that’s thriving with life. It’s also convenient, as there are many cafes where you can sit down and watch street performers. It’s also a great place to visit when on holiday if you want to sample holiday markets.
The place definitely has a touristy vibe to it. Yet it has an authentic ambiance that offers a unique experience. It even comes with a guided walking tour where you can learn about the history of the square from 1617 to the present.
9. Visit the Old Royal Hunting Grounds
What was once the Spanish hunting grounds for the royal family is now a great park to spend time with the kids. When you’re done taking in the scenery, architecture, and works of art, you’ll want to stop here for a while.
For starters, you can go on a walk and have a picnic. But you can also go kayaking on the lake or hop on one of the dozens of theme park rides. Casa de Campo is also home to the Zoo Aquarium where you’ll find a dolphin show, giant pandas, and many other unique displays.
Visit One of the Best Places to Live in the World
Madrid has a lot to offer for tourists of all ages. While many may see it as a destination for sports fans, perhaps even more people visit for its many art, history, and architectural gems.
This city is teeming with life and gorgeous exhibits and it’s worth a longer stay.
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