April 2013
(23 Rue Ravenstein, tel: 02 507 8200) Head to Bozar for its exhibition Changing States: Contemporary Irish Art and Francis Bacon's studio, which eclectically examines the works of an influential generation of Irish artists. It includes items from Bacon's studio, such as unfinished works and personal documents. Runs until 19 May. www.bozar.be

January 2013
Get a new take on Europe's hectic 1930s at the Brussels Cinquantenaire Museum with an exhibition dedicated to the Belgian princess Marie-José, which runs until 3 March. She married Crown Prince Umberto, entering the glittering but rigid life of the Italian Royal Court as fascism reached its peak in Europe. Through displays of her lavish wardrobe, from extraordinary evening dresses to handmade outfits from the best couturiers of the time, the exhibition provides an unusual and fascinating insight into this turbulent period (10 Parc de Cinquantenaire, tel: 02 741 7211).

April 2013
The Royal Greenhouses in Laeken open once a year to the public for a blooming extravaganza of 5,000 plants, including giant ferns and exotic trees, some 250 years-old. Get down there 15 April to 8 May. www.monarchie.be

January 2013
Head to the quarter of St Géry - with its many bars and cafes, plus some of the best designers and cutting-edge fashion galleries on nearby Avenue Antoine Danseart, it's one of the trendiest areas in the Belgian capital.

January 2013
Louvain, the capital of the Flemish Brabant province, is 30 minutes away by train from the Gare du Midi and is the seat of the country's oldest university. Visit the extraordinary 15th-century Gothic church of St Pieterskerk, and the Oude Markt, a large, cobbled square of tall gabled houses now housing a vibrant collection of bars.

October 2012
Just over an hour by train from Brussels Midi lies Namur, the capital of Wallonia. Be sure to visit the massive citadel and wander though the lovely 17th-century centre close to the banks of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, which meet in the heart of the town.