Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage city, captured our hearts with its medieval charm and rich history. After a scenic train ride from Brussels, we spent the day wandering cobblestone streets, admiring historic landmarks like the Begijnhofbrug and enjoying a boat tour along the picturesque canals. Lunch at Venezia Del Nord provided a delightful break before we explored the bustling Belfort square and the iconic Rozenhoedkaai. Although we missed climbing the Belfry, the stunning views and rich cultural experience made it a day to remember. Bruges left us eager to return, with even more Belgian cities still to explore.
A Guide to Kid-Friendly Activities in Brussels
A guide to kids friendly activities in Brussels. Brussels offers a plethora of activities for families. For Lego enthusiasts, the Lego Discovery Center is a must-visit. Comic lovers can explore the Comic Art Museum or embark on a comic trail tour. Indulge in Belgian chocolate or waffles at various shops and museums. And for a miniature European adventure, visit Mini-Europe. With these activities, your family trip to Brussels will be filled with fun and excitement!
Mad Doh – Sourdough Pizzeria & Bakes, Mulund (W)
Craving a wood-fired pizza, we decided to visit Mad Doh - Sourdough Pizzeria & Bakes, a pure vegetarian restaurant located in Mulund West. The ambience was serene and minimalist, with a white color palette, natural light, and simple wooden furniture. We started with a Guava Mojito and Classic Roasted Cheese Garlic Bread, which tasted good but didnโt quite meet our expectations of sourdough. The Pizza Ortolana had good flavor but lacked a crisp base, and the dessert, Tiramisu, was underwhelming. While the meal was pleasant, we look forward to trying more authentic pizzerias in town next time.
Exploring Brussels – History and Culture
Exploring Brussels with the Toot Bus made our day easy and enjoyable. Despite the rain, we adjusted our plans and visited the magnificent Cinquantenaire Arch, followed by a stroll through the surrounding park once the skies cleared. At Place Poelaert, we admired the Palais de Justice and took in panoramic views of Brussels from "The View" Ferris wheel. Our day ended at Mont des Arts, where art and history met in a peaceful garden setting. The Toot Bus provided a seamless, convenient way to discover Brussels' cultural treasures at our own pace.
Exploring Brussels – Atomium and Mini Europe
We booked our Toot Bus tickets online to enjoy discounts. They offer various passes, including one- or two-day options and combined passes with mini-Europe. We chose a one-day pass for โฌ72. Toot Bus provides audio guides in 11 languages and offers separate guides for children. We planned our day to visit Mini-Europe and Atomium. Mini-Europe is a miniature world featuring 350 European wonders. We were amazed by the intricate details and interactive elements. At Atomium, we enjoyed panoramic views from the top floor. We also explored the exhibition and enjoyed the surrounding park. Overall, it was a fantastic day exploring Brussels with Toot Bus.
Lunch at Foo, Thane
Foo, a renowned restaurant in Mumbai, is known for its exceptional Asian cuisine. We recently visited their new outlet at Viviana Mall, Thane, for lunch. Pre-booking through Zomato saved us from a long weekend wait. The ambiance was elegant and minimalist, setting the tone for a delightful meal. We enjoyed the Udon Clear Soup, Aburi Veg Maki, and Truffle Togarashi Black Rice Maki Sushi, all paired with Foo Brew Japanese Rice Beer. The highlight was their signature Foo Blue Butter Japanese Fried Rice with yellow curry. Though slightly pricey, the flavorful dishes and dessert made it worth the visit.
An Evening at Grand Place, Brussels
Our quest for a less touristy destination led us to Brussels, a city that surprised us with its charm and vibrant atmosphere. We sought a break from the bustling big cities of Paris and Amsterdam, and Brussels offered the perfect escape. Our four-day stay was filled with delightful discoveries, beginning with a memorable evening at the Grand Place. The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning square surrounded by opulent Baroque guildhalls. As we wandered through the square, we were captivated by its intricate architecture and lively atmosphere. We explored nearby landmarks like the Manneken Pis, a quirky bronze statue, and the Beursplein, a major gathering place.
An Evening Exploring Montmartre
On our final day in Paris, we wandered through Montmartre, beginning our journey with a metro ride to Lamarck-Caulaincourt. The quaint streets led us to the Instagram-famous La Maison Rose and the lively Place du Tertre, where artists and musicians filled the air with creativity. The stunning Sacrรฉ-Cลur offered mesmerizing views of Paris, and we reveled in the vibrant atmosphere around the basilica. A visit to the Wall of Love added a romantic touch, and our evening ended with a stroll to the iconic Moulin Rouge, basking in Montmartre's charm before returning to our hotel.
A Visit to the Louvre Museum
Our visit to the Louvre was a whirlwind of history and art. The boys were particularly keen on seeing the Mona Lisa, but their interest in history kept us exploring for hours. Navigating the vast museum was made easier with prior research, and we managed to see a good chunk of its treasures. From the iconic Mona Lisa to the grandeur of the French Crown Jewels, the Louvre offered a feast for the eyes and mind.
The Big Bus Experience in Paris
Having enjoyed the Big Bus tours in Abu Dhabi and Los Angeles, we eagerly tried them in Paris. We booked both a night tour and 24-hour hop-on-hop-off access in advance. The night tour was magical, showcasing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower beautifully lit. However, the hop-on-hop-off service had delays and overcrowding. Despite these issues, Paris's beauty made the trip unforgettable.
