Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is also considered the principal city of the European Union. It is centrally located within the country and is one of the 19 municipalities that make up the Brussels-Capital Region. The city is officially bilingual, with both French and Dutch as its official languages.

The historic centre of Brussels is known as the Pentagon, a reference to the pentagonal shape formed by the boulevards that replaced the old city walls. At the heart of this area lies the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its ornate 17th-century guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall.

Brussels is known for its rich cultural scene, hosting numerous museums such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, which house works by artists like Brueghel, Rubens, and Magritte. The city also has a variety of architectural styles, including notable Art Nouveau buildings designed by Victor Horta.

As the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels hosts key EU institutions, including the European Commission and the European Parliament, primarily located in the European Quarter. This status has contributed to the city's diverse and international population.

Culinary specialties of Brussels include waffles, chocolates, and the traditional dish of moules-frites (mussels with fries). The city is also famous for its wide selection of beers, particularly those brewed by local breweries.

Brussels' economy is strong, with a metropolitan GDP of approximately $220 billion in 2024. The city serves as a hub for both national and international business activities.

In terms of governance, the Brussels-Capital Region operates as a separate entity within Belgium, distinct from the Flemish and Walloon regions. The region is subdivided into 19 municipalities, each with its own local government.

Brussels' strategic location, cultural richness, and political significance make it a pivotal city in both Belgium and Europe.

• Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the European Union.
• The city has two official languages: French and Dutch.
• The Brussels-Capital Region has 19 municipalities.
• The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The European Commission and European Parliament are based in Brussels.
• The city is home to over 1.2 million people.
• The Brussels metro area has around 2.1 million residents.
• Brussels’ GDP was about $220 billion in 2024.
• The Atomium is a famous landmark built for Expo 1958.
• Brussels Airport is Belgium’s largest airport.
• The city hosts NATO’s headquarters.
• Brussels is known for its Art Nouveau architecture.
• The Royal Museums of Fine Arts hold famous artworks.
• Brussels is famous for its waffles and chocolate.
• Moules-frites (mussels with fries) is a traditional dish.
• Brussels has many breweries making Belgian beer.
• The city has one of Europe’s largest tram networks.
• The Manneken Pis statue is a major tourist attraction.
• The city has a temperate oceanic climate.
• The European Quarter is the political hub of Brussels.
• The city has three main railway stations.
• The Belgian Royal Palace is in Brussels.
• Brussels has over 40 museums.
• The city hosts international business and trade fairs.
• Brussels is a key financial and political centre in Europe.

The administrative department of Brussels consists of 2 major parts: the Departments of structure and the Department of production.

The region is divided into 3 sections, including the Flemish Region and the Walloon region, with each further subdivided into 5 individual constituencies.

The Brussels region is ordained by executive and legislative committees. Every five years the Council of the Region appoints the executive branch, embodied with a number of executive officers, one of whom serves as minister-president.

Among its many capacities, the region has jurisdiction over land-use regulations, residence, road and waterway networks, regional public transit, vocational training and workers’, environmental protection, and cultural preservation.

As of 2024, Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union's administrative centre, plays a pivotal role in the nation's economy. Belgium's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to reach approximately $778.3 billion in 2024, with Brussels contributing a significant portion due to its concentration of services and international institutions.

The services sector dominates Brussels' economy, encompassing public administration, financial services, and professional activities. The presence of the European Commission, the European Parliament, and NATO headquarters attracts numerous multinational corporations, non-governmental organisations, and lobbying firms, bolstering economic activity.

In 2024, Belgium's GDP growth is estimated at 1.4%, with projections indicating a slight increase to 1.5% in 2025. Inflation is expected to rise to 3.6% in 2024, influenced by the phasing out of energy support measures, before easing to 2.3% in 2025.

The labour market remains stable, with unemployment projected at 5.6% in both 2024 and 2025. Employment growth is modest, reflecting the broader economic trends within the region.

Brussels' strategic location and infrastructure make it a central hub for trade and logistics. However, the city faces challenges, including high public debt levels, which are projected to reach 107.2% of GDP in 2024. This has prompted government measures aimed at fiscal consolidation, leading to public debates over economic priorities.

Transportation Network

• Public Transport: The Brussels Intercommunal Transport Company (STIB/MIVB) operates buses, trams, and an extensive metro system. The metro has four lines that connect key areas. Ongoing investments are enhancing public transport, including a new north-south metro line.
• Rail Connections: The city has three main railway stations: Brussels-South, Brussels-Central, and Brussels-North. These stations connect Brussels to national and international destinations, with high-speed trains linking the city to London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne.
• Airports: Brussels is served by Brussels Airport in Zaventem and Brussels South Charleroi Airport. Both airports handle passenger and cargo traffic, connecting the city to global destinations.
• Road Infrastructure: The Brussels Ring (R0) connects major motorways, supporting regional and international travel. Redevelopment projects aim to improve road capacity and promote cycling.

Utilities and Services

• Energy: Brussels has a modern electricity and gas network, with efforts to increase renewable energy integration and improve efficiency.
• Waterways: The Port of Brussels, located on the Brussels-Scheldt Maritime Canal, plays a key role in cargo transport, reducing road congestion.

Urban Development

• European Quarter: The area housing EU institutions is being redeveloped with modern office spaces and public areas.
• Tour & Taxis: This historic site has been converted into a mixed-use space with offices, residences, and green spaces.