Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
often board the wrong train on the right track.
To get to the Grand Place from Central Station, exit the station
from the top floor (to the left of the ticket windows), and you'll see
Le Meridien Hôtel across the street. Pass through the arch of Le
Meridien Hôtel, turn right, and walk downhill one block to a small
square with a fountain. For the Grand Place, turn left at the far end
of the square. Or, to head directly to the TI, exit the small square at
the far end and continue straight for one block to Rue du Marché-
aux-Herbes 63. Note that the hop-on, hop-off bus companies depart
from just in front of the Central Station (you'll meet ticket hustlers
as you leave). You could hop on one of these buses upon arrival to
orient yourself from the top deck (see “Tours,” page 384).
By Plane:
See the Transportation Connections chapter,
page 437.
Helpful Hints
Theft A lert:
While I euphemistically describe Brussels as “earthy,”
it's also undeniably seedier than many European cities.
Expect more grime on buildings, street people, and Gypsy
ladies cradling their babies with a fake arm (while their hid-
den, real arm rifles your pockets). Muggings do occur. Some
locals warn that it's not safe to be out late, especially after the
Métro shuts down at midnight; troublemakers prey on people
who missed that last ride. As in any other big city, use com-
mon sense and consider taking a taxi back to your hotel late
at night.
Sightseeing Schedules:
Brussels' most important museums
are closed on Monday. But, of course, the city's single best
sight—the Grand Place—is always open. You can also enjoy a
bus tour any day of the week, or visit the more far-flung sights
(which
are
open on Monday), such as the Atomium and the
European Parliament. Most important, this is a city to browse
and wander.
Department Store:
Hema
is at Nieuwstraat 13 (Mon-Sat 9:30-
18:30, closed Sun, tel. 02-227-5210).
Laundry:
There's a coin-op launderette at Rue du Midi 65 (daily
7:00-21:00, change machine).
Travel Agency and
Discount Flights:
he
Connections Agency
has a line on air and rail connections, including the Eurostar
to London and the Thalys to Paris and Amsterdam (€10/
person booking fee, Mon-Fri 9:30-18:30, opens Wed at 10:30,
Sat 10:00-17:00, closed Sun, free coffee and WC, Rue du
Midi 19-21, tel. 02-550-0130, www.connections.be).
