IXELLES. It makes sense that the fashionable enclave of Ixelles is home to shopping hotspot Avenue Louise. Inno, the city's most well-rounded department store, offers everything from clothing to housewares and has a branch here; however, upscale boutiques are more common. Bonpoint is a local favorite for children's clothes, while Natan provides duds for their mommies. Though a toy store, Serneel's often captivates adults as well as children. To sample Belgian fashion, try Oliver Strelli, a local talent many compare to Armani, or the Shine department store, which exclusively stocks Belgian designers. The area is also home to several excellent bookstores and galleries, not to mention numerous cafes. Hours and credit card acceptance vary by store.

UPPER TOWN. This square takes its name from "sable," the French word for "sand." Years ago, the area was a nondescript, sandy lowland on the way to Brussels proper. Today, the square is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and upscale cafes; it's also the epicenter of Brussels' antiques trade. In fact, historic homes surrounding the square have been converted into high-end antique shops, and a well-known antiques market is held on the square each weekend.