Pate, chocolate, a famously controversial fountain- thought you knew Brussels? Hire a car and think again! Renting a car at Brussels Charleroi Airport allows you to discover not only the well-known attractions but also a host of off-the beaten track hidden gems. Independent of the timetables and scheduled stops of public transport, you'll be free to discover a picture of the EU capital that is completely unique to you. Whether you're interested in politics, the arts or the great outdoors, you'll find Brussels car rental opens up many doors. You're not confined to the city's limits either. There are many wonderful sights to be found on the outskirts and in the surrounding countryside. Belgium has a fascinating history that can be easily explored with car hire. Driving around, you'll find tiny towns and pretty villages speak volumes more than history books ever could. The following is a guide to how best to spend your time in Brussels.



Brussels Charleroi Airport Mini Guide:

Brussels Charleroi Airport is situated approximately 7km north of Charleroi and 46km from Central Brussels. The airport is a hub for a number of major budget carriers including Ryanair, Blue Air and Wizz Air.

Things To See/Do in Brussels:

Brussels-Belgium's capital and Europe's nerve centre offers plenty in terms of visitor attractions. The city centre is split into an Upper and Lower Town, each providing excellent scope for exploration. The Lower Town has a particularly picturesque setting, featuring the impressive medieval Grand? Place square and charming guild houses. The square plays host to a fragrant daily flower market and regular concerts and is the ideal place to while away an afternoon, browsing the stalls or sipping coffee at one of its many chic caf's. The Lower Town is also home to the city's iconic Mannekin Pis, which can be found on rue de l'Etuve. Meanwhile, the Upper Town's elegant Royal Quarter and absorbing Mus'es Royaux des Beaux Arts also draw in the crowds.

Eating Out in Brussels:

Brussels is a cosmopolitan city, which has become a melting pot for many cultures. Consequently, you'll find eating out in Brussels to be a truly international affair. Whether you're looking to snack on fast food, sample elegant French fare or exotic Thai, you'll find Brussels offers excellent choice in terms of eating out. For an especially authentic experience, the local waffles, (Moules & Frites) mussels and fries and Carbonnades (beef stew) are definitely worth a try. Belgian beer is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, while Belgian chocolate is always excellent.

Day Trips/Events in Brussels:

Belgium is compact enough to provide a good range of exciting day-trips. The cities of Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent are all accessible within an hour's car hire drive, while pretty Ostend is the ideal destination for those looking to spend a day at the beach.

Contrary to popular belief, the locals of Brussels are a fun-loving lot who'll find any excuse to party. Whenever you visit Brussels you'll always find something exciting going on. Calendar highlights include May's Kunsten Festival des Arts, October/November's Annual Jazz Festival and December's Christmas market.