Brussels

From a centre-stage vantage point in the middle of the architecturally magnificent Grand Place, Brussels seems a historic wonderland. Away from the throngs of tourists, the same rings true. Brussels is not only the capital of Belgium but also of the European Union, its seams stretched by an abundance of museums, galleries, cafe-laced squares and traditional eateries. The bilingual city offers two frontiers of beauty, where the medieval facades of olde worlde architecture meet the sleek modernity of the Atomium, and the suited sternness of businessmen and bureaucrats meet the broad beams of delighted, camera-slinging visitors. Indulge with Belgian beer, tuck into moules-frites and soak up the ambience.