Brussels

As the host of the European Union institutions (and the Nato headquarters), “Brussels” has become shorthand for the EU. But there’s much more to the Belgian capital than politics. It has plenty to offer visitors in town for business or pleasure, from art nouveau architecture to independent boutiques. That’s on top of its host of leafy parks and, though Belgian cuisine may not be at the top of everyone’s dining bucket list, it’s also brimming with first-rate restaurants. Tuck in.