Why Brussels?

Our thanks to VisitBrussels for supporting UIA as a partner of the Round Table, and to Jan Lichota for telling us ‘Why Brussels’ is a good place for meetings


Did you know that…?

Brussels has an incredible pool of multilingual talent for all kinds of meetings and services. The presence of international organizations, international associations, diplomatic representations and business, plus a rich cultural life all through the year, allow you to find professionals from all over the world for every need.

The historic building of the Stock Exchange is host to the Belgian Beer World. Right in the city centre, it offers the right match of Belgian history, cultural heritage and good moments of joy.

For the third time, in three participations, Brussels is a finalist in the European Smart Tourism Capital contest. This shows the clear path of a holistic approach for the destination, taking care of investments and cooperation in sustainability, accessibility, care for heritage and digital innovation.

Help for international associations?

A quick consultation of Let’s Meet or a direct request via the RFP Event Planner will make any query easily reach the right answer.

The Convention and Association Bureau team is also there to guide you in every way.

Where to meet?

Brussels offers various opportunities for meetings of all sizes and types, from a large conference and exhibition held at The Square, The Egg, or Brussels Expo to more diverse formats at Tour & Taxis, Halles de Schaerbeek or at academic premises.

Hotels and event venues provide you with all the facilities for gatherings, and small meetings can be held all over the city. International associations have also specific spots like the Centre of International Associations – MAI in the Louise business district or The Association Place in the European Quarter.

However, Brussels is distinctive for the variety of its venues. Here you can host an event in the world’s largest Art Deco church, be on the top of the city in Europe’s largest rooftop or under it in a historic vault below the Royal Palace. The Brussels Special Venues network unites 60 of the capital’s distinctive locations and opens the door to your imagination for an event setup.

Where to stay?

Like the city, the Brussels hotel scene is in constant evolution. In recent years, there have been developments in the city centre, in business districts and close to the airport, creating opportunities for all kinds of meetings. And this will continue in the years to come.

In the high-end sector various new ventures have opened to brighten the Brussels hotel scene. After The Mix, L-Avenue and The Hoxton, more recently The Standard, Cardo Brussels, Corinthia Grand Astoria and Faubourg21 have already set new standards for comfort and style.

The city centre will also witness the reopening of the historic Hotel Métropole in 2027, and the arrival of more rooms with the extension of DoubleTree by Hilton and a new Mercure hotel, among others.

How to reach Brussels?

Brussels is a city that is well connected for all travellers coming by road, cycling path, train or plane.

Brussels Zaventem airport has connections to all European capitals and has announced new direct routes to North and South America, as well as to the Middle East and Asia, which will extend even more the travel possibilities.

Besides existing train connections to all neighbouring countries, new night train connections to Spain and Central Europe are due to appear very soon. Moreover, additional coach services between major European cities are being scheduled.

Somewhere special: personal recommendations/insider tips?

Brussels continues to foster its relationship with art. In 2026 KANAL–Centre Pompidou, a new contemporary art museum, will open for the public and for events. The re-opening of the Museum of Ixelles is also foreseen, after several years of renovation.

Recently the Juliana Hotel received two Michelin Hotel Keys. An award based on five criteria: architecture, personality, service, value for money and contribution to the overall destination experience. Have a sneak peek at the bar, and you may also stay for a night and enjoy a visit to the spa.

You can dive into Europe’s culture and heritage at the House of European History thanks to its permanent and temporary exhibitions; it is open every day. Discover also all the surrounding area of the European Quarter and mingle with officials, residents and visitors.

Whom to contact?

For any further information the Convention and Association Bureau of visit.brussels is always at your disposal.

Follow our Linkedin accounts or check our websites www.meetings.brussels or www.associations.brussels for all the details or send any request to meetings@visit.brussels or associations@visit.brussels.


This text is part of UIA's World of Associations
Issue #20 – November 2025