Grand Place, Manneken Pis, the best frites and where to find Indian food — a weekend in Brussels from a desi perspective.
Train from Cologne to Brussels: 1h50. From Frankfurt: 3h. From Berlin: 5h30 or fly (1h). Book via DB or Eurostar. Brussels is Schengen — your German residence permit covers entry.
One of Europe's most beautiful squares — baroque guild houses and Gothic Town Hall. Go at night when lit up. The Îlot Sacré neighbourhood has dozens of restaurants.
Moules-frites (mussels with chips): the national dish. Waffle types: Brussels (rectangular, light) vs Liège (round, denser, pearl sugar). Chocolate: Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini for premium. Frites: Maison Antoine near Place Jourdan.
Concentrated around Rue du Midi and Saint-Gilles. Indian/Pakistani grocery stores are common — easier to find desi ingredients here than in many German cities.
€80–100/day for hotel, meals and attractions. Day trip from Cologne or Frankfurt is most budget-friendly — trains run frequently.
