BRUSSELS—Brussels used to spark about as much excitement among travelers as its namesake sprouts do among children. But not anymore. This once provincial capital has turned into a hip, cosmopolitan metropolis worthy of its status as the seat of the European Union. The city boasts a burgeoning community of artists, gallerists and collectors; fabulous antique shops; and flea markets — not to mention a robust culinary scene. Visitors are charmed by its rich, eclectic array of architecture, its ancient cobblestone streets, and the ease of getting around on its tram system. Says New York dealer Barbara Gladstone, who opened the newest branch of her gallery in a restored 19th-century townhouse on Rue de Grand Cerf last fall, “It’s a very livable city.”

Go:

Musée Magritte
WHAT: The world’s largest museum devoted to the works of René Magritte
WHEN: Opening June 2
WHERE: The Place Royale
HIGHLIGHTS: All of Brussels seems set to celebrate the opening of this major new museum, with many hotels, retailers, and other establishments offering special Magritte-themed deals, events, or merchandise. Housed in a grand former hotel on the Place Royale, the museum boasts a collection of 250 artworks, including masterpieces like The Empire of Lights (1954), and archival materials — as well as state-of-the-art green technology.

Hergé Museum
WHAT: A new museum dedicated to the work of Belgian comic book artist Hergé
WHEN: Opening June 2
WHERE: Louvain-La-Neuvre
HIGHLIGHTS: Magritte isn’t the only Belgian artist being feted this month. On June 2, a new museum devoted to fellow Brussels native Hergé — best known as the creator of the comic strip The Adventures of Tintin, featuring the young reporter Tintin and his dog, Snowy — will open its doors 20 miles east of the capital. Designed by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Christian de Portzamparc, the three-story museum sports windows that cleverly resemble comic strip panels and showcases a treasure trove of Hergé’s original works.

Stay:

Hotel Amigo
One of renowned hotelier Rocco Forte’s posh properties, the Hotel Amigo is widely considered the best in the city. Locally sourced furniture, linens, and art lend Flemish flavor to the sleek, contemporary interiors. Even the spacious marble bathrooms are decorated with prints of Tintin.
100 Rue de l’Amigo
32-2/547-47-47
Rates: $880–$6,380
hotelamigo.com

be Manos
Design-savvy travelers might want to book a room at this stylish, new boutique hotel, whose eye-catching decor includes gigantic glass-baubled chandeliers. For relaxation, check out the wellness center, which offers a sauna, hammam (bathhouse), and massage services.
23 Square de l’Aviation 23–27
32-2/520-65-65
Rates: $490–$825
bemanos.com

Sofitel Brussels Le Louise
Another of Brussels’s top hotels, this Sofitel is conveniently located close to the luxury–shopping thoroughfare of Avenue Louise, home to countless high-end boutiques. A full renovation in 2008 has yielded contemporary touches like the spectacular “lace” Corian wall in the lobby.
40 Avenue de la Toison d’Or
32-2/514-22-00
Rates: $185–$2,125
sofitel.com

Thewhitehotel
For real minimalists, this quirky yet serene hotel might be just the place to stay. True to the name, all rooms are sparsely furnished in all white, each containing one carefully selected piece by a young Belgian designer or artist, available for purchase. “It’s a sweet little place,” says Gladstone.
Avenue Louise 212
32-2/644-29-29
Rates: $105–$255
thewhitehotel.be

Eat & Drink:

Au Vieux Saint-Martin
This classic Belgian bistro serving traditional specialties is a favorite of Gladstone’s — and always packed. In particular, try the filet americain (raw, minced beef mixed with onions and spices).
Place du Grand Sablon 38
32-2/512-64-76

L’Ecailler du Palais Royal à Bruxelles
Bruxellois enjoy the elegantly old-fashioned ambience at this beloved French establishment in the upscale Sablon neighborhood, which, according to many, serves the city’s best seafood. “I love to order the salad with small Belgian shrimp and the lobster,” says dealer Almine Rech, who has galleries in both Paris and Brussels.
Rue Bodenbroek 18
32-2/512-87-51
lecaillerdupalaisroyal.be