BELGIUM - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 66

Sights/Attractions/Tours
The city abounds in things to see and do, ranging from its elegant Grand'Place
to historic Waterloo. If you visit Brussels during the summer, sign up at the
tourist office for what we believe is the best way to browse Brussels—“Summer
Routes”—attractive, unique theme packages and tours incorporating trams,
coaches, boats, or bikes, as well as feet. These are not the usual whistle-stop
tours; you get off the beaten track, and you can choose the theme tour that appeals
to you. The tourist office also conducts other city tours—in 14 languages!
If you want to conduct your own tour, arm yourself with maps and information
from the tourist office. Then head for the Grand'Place. You can reach it from the
Central Station (Gare Centrale) by walking downhill toward the spire of the Town
Hall. When you reach the square, take a minute to drink in the splendor of the or-
nate medieval guild houses facing the square. You will realize immediately why it
is called the most beautiful square in all of Europe. If you are looking for a souvenir
or a gift for someone, we can suggest pralines (hand-dipped chocolates), specu-
loos (brown sugar biscuits), or some fine Brussels lace. All three of these Belgian
specialties are available from shops in and around the Grand'Place.