Step Onto The Brussels Stage Where Global Conversations Happen

Tour & Taxis - Gare Maritime © visit.brussels | Jean-Paul Remy

Keen to be part of the world’s most significant discussions? Let your voice be heard in Brussels. The Belgian capital is a hub for politics, science, business and culture with a truly international outlook. Choosing Brussels means tapping into one of the world’s most influential ecosystems. With a full calendar of high-profile and emerging events, Brussels continues to grow as one of the world’s top congress cities. And the future looks bright: new hotels, striking venues and a strong commitment to smart tourism are setting the tone for 2030.

Brussels, A Decision-Making Hub

Brussels is the place where global policies take shape. Three of the EU’s main institutions, NATO and thousands of international associations call Brussels home. This draws a community of over 30,000 professionals working in policy, advocacy and communication.

It is also one of the world’s most diverse cities, with more than 180 nationalities and a remarkable pool of multilingual talent. That diversity fuels its open-minded spirit. It is this combination that helps Brussels consolidate its position as a top global congress destination. Flagship conferences return year after year – some like International Symposium on Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (ISICEM) and Computers, Privacy and Data Protection (CDPD) have done so since the 1980s – building on decades of trust and shared success.

This success is part of a broader story. In 2024, Brussels recorded almost ten million overnight stays, its highest number ever. According to Patrick Bontinck, CEO of visit. brussels, “Brussels clearly has a unique, cosmopolitan profile. When it comes to art, culture, gastronomy and nightlife, there’s always something happening.”

In short, tourism growth is powering Brussels’ next chapter with new projects preparing the city for 2030.
 

Espace Léopold - Leopoldruimte © visit.brussels | Jean-Paul Remy

What’s Next For Brussels

The Belgium capital is shaping a practical, people-first future for business events. Shortlisted for the 2026 European Capital of Smart Tourism, the city shows how innovation and tradition can evolve hand in hand.

Heritage and culture remain the city’s main draw. The Wiertz Museum (2026), the Museum of Ixelles (2026), the Jewish Museum of Belgium (2028) and the emblematic Chinese Pavillion (2028) are set to reopen. A new MIMA concept will add a creative pulse to the European Quarter. Le Chat, the besuited cartoon cat that exemplifies Belgium’s quirky sense of humour will be getting his own museum in 2029. One of the most anticipated openings is KANAL–Centre Pompidou, set for November 2026. The new cultural landmark is set to attract audiences from across Europe. In addition, this 40,000 m² hub for contemporary art will also offer the chance to host events.

Getting to Brussels will soon be easier than ever. New night-train links added coach services between European cities and more direct air routes are widening access. A major airport transformation (2026–2032) will further improve connectivity.
 

Atelier Kanal - Kanal Nave (a Friday at noon in April) © visit.brussels

Distinctive Venues and Sustainable Hospitality 

The hotel scene is evolving fast, especially in the high-end sector. The Standard, Cardo Brussels and Corinthia Grand Astoria have already raised the bar in terms of comfort and design. Boutique newcomers like Faubourg 21 combine five-star luxury with a warm, homely feel. The reopening of the historic Hotel Métropole (2027) and the expansion of DoubleTree by Hilton (2026) will further boost the four-star offer. Meanwhile, Cloud One Brussels (2026 and 2027) and a second MIX spa hotel (2028) will add even more variety in the city centre. Overall, Brussels’ hospitality sector will see a surge of 1,300 new rooms with a clear shift toward experience-driven hospitality.

But capacity is only half the story. What truly defines Brussels is its character. The Brussels Special Venues network unites 60 of the capital’s distinctive locations, offering over 500 rooms in settings that range from historic ballrooms to reimagined industrial spaces. In Brussels, you can host a symposium in the world’s largest Art Deco church, a gala among dinosaurs or a product launch inside the Atomium. No idea is too wild.

Sustainability ties it all together. Nearly half of Brussels’ hotels are now Green Key-certified. More venues are embracing eco-labels, circular design and green mobility. Digital tools such as the Brussels Smart City Card connect transport, culture and local services in one place.
 

Hotel Cardo Brussels - Place Charles Rogier © visit.brussels

Brussels is also simplifying event planning with a tool for faster venue matches. Start planning with the RFP Event Planner by visit.brussels and let local teams advise you every step of the way. It is all part of a smarter, more connected city that works for people.

Stay informed about the latest openings, venues and event news from Brussels. Subscribe to the visit.brussels Meetings & Events newsletter via the QR code on the right.

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