The main pedestrian shopping street, the longest one in Brussels, is the Rue Neuve. This street has mainly international chain stores. More original smaller shops can be found between the Grand Place and the Rue Lemonnier.

Find sweet temptations in Neuhaus pralines, discover the King's favourite chocs at Wittamer or the trendiest treats chez Pierre Marcolini. Belgian chocolates live up to their reputation, and they don't have to be expensive – good-value options are Godiva and Leonadis. Belgian-brewed beer from BeerMania's overgrown selection is another tasty favourite.

Brussels is fantastic for fashion. Snap up high-street bargains (from Zara to H&M) on the Rue Neuve – they're even cheaper than back home! Spoil yourself with international brands on the Avenue Louise and Avenue de la Toison d'Or. Or find designer one-offs by Belgian créateurs on the style-studded Rue Antoine Dansaert. Names to watch are: Olivier Strelli, Ann Demeulemeester, Dries Van Noten and Carine Lauwers.

Hunt for fine crystal, silverware and pristine curiosities at Saturday's pristine Sablon Antiques Market or seek out the gems from the junk at Sunday's Jeu de Balle Flea Market. A Flower Market brings colour and scent to the Grand Place daily.

Shops are open Monday to Saturday (8am-6pm), although souvenir shops around the Grand Place, selling lace, chocolate and speculoos gingerbread (for the latter, you can't beat Dandoy), stay open later and all day Sunday. If you find yourself desperate to shop at four in the morning, head for Delhaize all-night supermarket.