Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, a hire car from Brussels airport will help you make the most of this sophisticated European capital.
"We don't need to brag - those in the know realise that Brussels is one of Europe's most sophisticated, cultural cities."
The Belgian capital is, of course, better known for being the centre of Euro-politics, but from its ancient architecture to its cutting-edge art, culturally it has a lot to quietly rival its more famous neighbours.
Brussels is serious about work - it's home to numerous political organisations, including the headquarters of NATO and the EU - but rates sophistication highly too.
They're a cultured bunch and love the finer things their country has to offer - namely good food, good drink and the arts - and they're keen to show them off to visitors.
Summers are pleasant but not particularly hot, and rain is a regular occurrence throughout the year.
Take your pick from a wonderful smorgasbord: moules frites (or mussels and fries), chocolate, waffles, beer and, of course, the much maligned but much loved Brussels sprout, which was first grown here.
Audrey Hepburn was born here, and fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg is a native.
There are more ambassadors and journalists in Brussels than in Washington DC.
"In an age where so much is already discovered, Belgium's capital seduces as one of Western Europe's unknowns." - Lonely Planet
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1. Grand Place
This stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and central market square of Brussels is a hub of activity - and the ideal starting point for a day of sightseeing. Begin with the city's beautiful 15th century Town Hall.
There are places to park on Madeleine Street.
2. Galeries Saint-Hubert
The perfect setting for a well-earned coffee and waffles break. Home to a charming selection of indoor cafes, but with an outdoor feel.
There is a car park on the nearby street of Montagne-aux-Herbes Potageres.
3. Musees Royaux des Beaux-Arts
Whether you prefer your art contemporary or more traditional, this fabulous institute boasts works by big-name painters, including Brueghel, Rubens, Van Dyck and Rembrandt.
Use the Parking Albertine car park.
4. Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinee
For art of a modern kind, this comic-strip museum is just a short walk from the Grand Place. Look out for pictures of Tintin, Snowy and Captain Haddock.
The nearest car park is City-Parking in Boulevard Pacheco which has 2,000 places.
5. Musee Bruxellois de la Gueuze
A trip to Brussels wouldn't be complete without sampling the beer, and in this working brewery you can see the whole wonderful process from start to finish - and enjoy a few tasting sessions too.
There is an on-site car park for visitors.
1. Atomium
Brussels's most iconic modern landmark was built in 1958 - one of the original ideas was to build an upside-down Eiffel Tower, but its designer felt an atomic structure was more symbolic of the era. The very top sphere has wonderful panoramic views of the city.
It's fairly easy to get to the Atomium. Just head north on Majoor Rene Dubreucqstraat toward Londenplein and follow signs for Atomium Square.
2. Waterloo
The scene of Napoleon's crushing final defeat in 1815. Don't miss the waxwork museum, and do climb up the 226 steps to the Lion's Mound overlooking the battlefield.
Waterloo is about half an hour outside the city centre. Just head north on Majoor Rene Dubreucqstraat toward Londenplein and take the N248 and N5 towards Waterloo.
3. Chateau de Gaasbeek
This gorgeous Medieval castle houses a huge array of classic armour, paintings, tapestries and gold. Be sure to enjoy the terrace, with its views over the surrounding countryside.
Head north on Majoor Rene Dubreucqstraat toward Londenplein and follow the N4 towards Gaasbeek. The journey from the centre of Brussels should take around half an hour.
4. Abbey de la Cambre
This beautiful former Abbey is now home to government buildings, but still has a small, charming church and a peaceful walled garden, which are open to visitors.
Head north on Majoor Rene Dubreucqstraat toward Londenplein and take the N247, following signs for Abbaye de la Cambre. From the centre of Brussels, it should take you no more than ten minutes to get to.
" Make sure you get a really good map, as signs and directions can be tricky to decipher, but the basic principle is that you should give way to traffic entering from the right and generally be prepared to stop at any moment! The city planners have started to paint triangles at junctions, which makes things a bit clearer and means that you must give way, regardless of whether you are entering from the right. But don't be daunted - driving is still the best way to see the beautiful sights of our city. "
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