visit brussels days

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels Itinerary

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

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If you’re currently planning your Brussels itinerary, then you’ve come to the right place! One of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Belgium’s capital is lots of fun to explore but all too often overlooked. After just 2 to 3 days in Brussels though, its delicious frites, waffles and chocolate will have you questioning why you’re not staying even longer!

Besides quirky street art and comic books, Brussels is known for its beautiful historic centre, brilliant beers and important European institutions. With incredible architecture, outstanding museums and, of course, Bruges and Ghent lying nearby, this underrated gem certainly has something for everyone to enjoy.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Brussels?

While you could, at a stretch, see many of its main sights in half a day, the longer you stay in the ‘Capital of the EU’, the more it reveals. How many days to spend in Brussels is a tough question as it is its staggering diversity and different neighbourhoods that make the city truly special to explore.

More than just the main sights, 2 days in Brussels allows you to venture outside the centre, live local life and experience more of its exciting nightlife scene. You could also fit in some more museums, parks and a stop at the Atomium.

Most visitors who spend 3 days in the Belgian capital also visit either Bruges or Ghent on one of those days. Must-see cities, their gorgeous historic centres lie just short train journeys away with both boasting lots of attractive architecture and a wealth of impressive landmarks.

Getting To & Around Brussels

Thanks to its central location in Europe and multicultural population, Brussels is incredibly well connected to the outside world. Once you’ve arrived, you can either explore its compact centre on foot or use its extensive public transport network.

Most visitors from far-flung countries usually arrive at Brussels Airport which lies just a short bus, train, taxi or private transfer ride from the centre. While the latter is more convenient, it costs around €50. The two public transport options are much more affordable.

If you’ve booked a cheap flight to ‘Brussels South’, you’ll need to factor in an hour-long bus or shared taxi journey. This is because the airport is actually located just outside Charleroi in Wallonia. You can also organise a private transfer here.

Many people also arrive by train at its three central stations: Gare du Nord, Gare Central and Gare du Midi (Zuidstation in Dutch). From here you can catch regular trains to other cities in Belgium as well as Lille , Paris , London and Amsterdam . You can view train schedules here.

These are also unfortunately some of the only places in Brussels where you need to be a bit wary about your possessions.

While the centre and surrounding neighbourhoods are very walkable, you can always pay for buses, metros and trams using your regular bank card. Just tap it against the grey machine and remember to validate each time.

2 to 3-Day Brussels Itinerary

The first day focuses on the city centre and its main sights. You can organise a walking tour here to learn more about the history of the city.

On your second day, you can then delve a little deeper into what makes it unique before heading to either Bruges and/or Ghent the next. Keep an eye out for the colourful Belgian comic strip centre murals as they pop up almost everywhere.

As you wander about the capital’s streets, you’ll hear tons of languages being used wherever you go. At the last count, over 180 nationalities reside in this city and 100 or so languages are spoken. This can understandably be a bit confusing for visitors on their trip to Brussels.

While French is the most common language used in shops, bars and restaurants, you can now use English almost everywhere. Pockets of Dutch speakers can also be found here and there with the language dominating daily life in Bruges and Ghent in Flanders.

Day 1 – Central Brussels Highlights

The grand place.

The first place that people head is of course the Grand Place which is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic sight. One of the most beautiful squares in the world, its uneven cobblestones are surrounded by grand, gold-decked guildhalls that mostly date to the late 1600s.

At all times of the day, the spectacular square is full of visitors strolling about, chatting and snapping photos of its flamboyant Town Hall.

It also hosts countless festivals and cultural events with an immense flower carpet coating its cobbles in August of every even year. It is also home to the Brussels City Museum and is absolutely one of the top places to visit in Brussels.

Manneken Pis

Just a short walk away is another of Brussels’ must-see sights: its famous statue of a small peeing boy. While the Grand Place always leaves people impressed, many tourists are left a bit confused at just why huge crowds congregate in front of the cheeky character each day.

Others find the 55.5-centimetre-high sculpture hilarious with the tiny bronze figure also often dressed up in one of his thousand or so different costumes. Next to Manneken Pis are some great waffle stands and lace shops to stop by before continuing with your sightseeing.

Les Marolles

Not too far away is one of the oldest and most popular neighbourhoods in Brussels. Known as Les Marolles, its charming buildings now house lots of antique shops with the gorgeous Chapel Church and gigantic Palace of Justice also being located here.

Each day until 2 PM, there is a fun flea market for you to rummage through at Place du Jeu de Balle. After looking through all its old books, clothes, African masks and jewellery pieces, you can enjoy a hearty stoemp or croque monsieur at La Clef d’Or.

Just a stone’s throw from the messy market is the chic and sophisticated Sablon part of the centre. As well as the shops of famed Belgian chocolatiers Pierre Marcolini and Neuhaus (you can organise a chocolate workshop here ), its cobbled streets and squares are lined by fashionable boutiques and elegant townhouses.

After picking up a box or two of tasty chocolates to take home, you can marvel at the superb facade of the Church of Our Blessed Lady of Sablon (the Notre Dame du Sablon in French). Alongside the refined fifteenth-century church is a lovingly landscaped garden which contains 48 statues of various political figures, artists and intellectuals from the city’s past.

Mont des Arts

As the evening draws in, make your way to the nearby Mont des Arts for a stunning sunset. One of the only viewpoints in Brussels, it looks out over a picturesque garden and the Town Hall’s tall spire rising up dramatically in the distance. Taking in this lovely view is one of the best things to do in Brussels.

If you have a bit more time on your hands, you can also wander around the corner and take some pictures of the Royal Palace of Brussels (home to the Belgian Royal Family).

Both the Royal Museums of the Fine Arts and Musical Instruments Museum are also well worth checking out here if you have the chance.

As Belgium is known for its beers and Delirium has over 2,000 different kinds for you to try, you simply have to include the world-famous bar on your itinerary.

Although it and the alley in front are always crowded and noisy, the atmosphere is intoxicating and you’re sure to make some new friends. If you want to learn more about Belgian beer, you can do a beer tasting .

If you need food beforehand, the century-old Chez Leon serves all the classics such as horse steak, stoofvlees and moules marinieres.

For a quieter drink in a traditional setting, Au Bon Vieux Temps, A La Becasse and Goupil Le Fol are all good bets. Other lively nightlife spots to hit up nearby are around Saint-Gery and Place Sainte-Catherine.

Before heading back, grab a packet of frites drenched in andalouse sauce at Fritland and see the Grand Place majestically lit up at night.

Day 2 – The Antomium, European Quarter & International Brussels!

The atomium.

On your second day in Brussels, wake up earlyish (if you can after the strong Belgian beers!) and head to the Atomium on the northern outskirts of the city. Originally erected for the 1958 World’s Fair, the unique landmark makes for some amazing photos with the views from the restaurant up top being just as good.

A perfect example of the unusual art found scattered all around the capital, its nine stainless steel spheres represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. From the popular yet far-out attraction, you’ll need to take a forty-minute metro journey to our next stop of the day. You can pre-book tickets here .

Parc du Cinquantenaire

One of the largest green spaces in town, Cinquantenaire Park is always packed with people exercising and enjoying the outdoors. While ambling about its leafy confines, you can admire its epic-looking triumphal arch that was built to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Belgian Revolution.

Lining the massive monument on either side are two huge buildings that house several great museums. While Autoworld contains around 250 classic cars, the Museum of Military History displays old tanks and medieval armour.

If you want to ‘complete’ Brussels in 2 days or a weekend in Brussels, you’ll probably have to pick just one between them and the adjacent Art and History Museum.

The European Quarter

Unlike the rest of Brussels which is full of arresting Art Nouveau buildings designed by Horta and Hankar, the European Quarter is characterised by gleaming, glass office blocks. On the way here from Cinquantenaire, you can always stop off for more frites at the famous Maison Antoine in Place Jourdan.

After filling up, either the House of European History or the Parlamentarium will teach you all about the EU and its hugely influential institutions. Free and interactive, they lie right next to the European Parliament which you can even take tours around if you reserve online.

On Thursday nights, MEPs, interns and lobbyists alike pour into Place du Luxembourg outside and drink the night away, creating a festival-like atmosphere in the process.

Matonge and Saint-Boniface

Although it is located right next to the European Quarter, Matonge couldn’t be more different. Home to most of the city’s Congolese population, it has a distinctly African vibe with little local shops selling cassavas, plantains and exotic fruits spilling out onto the pavement.

Other than shopping, seeing its street art and soaking up the lively atmosphere, you can sit and enjoy a tasty chicken mafe or tilapia dish at Au Soleil d’Afrique. Just a couple of streets away the city changes again with typical Belgian restaurants like Ultime Atome and Le Clan des Belges lying before Saint-Boniface Church’s fine facade.

While it’s impossible to see all of Brussels in 3 days, these dynamic neighbourhoods hint at its almost unrivalled diversity.

Flagey and Saint-Gilles

After another successful day sightseeing, it’s time to hit up some more of Brussels’ cool bars and nightlife spots. Flagey is a very popular place to head with Cafe Belga’s outdoor terrace always full of people drinking.

If you want to avoid the crush of dancers inside, Le Pantin and L’Amere a Boire are both more intimate and offer an extensive list of beers. Each Sunday morning, a farmers’ market takes over the large square outside.

A bit further away than Flagey is Saint-Gilles which is now one of the trendiest districts in the city. Lining its parvis are dozens of lively bars with Cafe Maison du Peuple and Brasserie de L’Union being two of the most popular and long-running.

Here you can enjoy everything from strong Chimays and Tripel Karmeliets to fruity krieks and gueuzes only made in Belgium.

Day 3 – Bruges and/or Ghent

Although you could spend weeks exploring the city, most people with 3 days also fit in a trip to Bruges or Ghent on either their second or third day. As they are not huge cities, you can stop by both and see most of their main sights if you are a bit organised and leave early in the morning. You can organise a guided tour here .

Invariably described as a ‘fairytale town’ and the ‘Venice of the North’, Bruges is renowned for its enchanting cobbled streets and canals lined by medieval buildings. Due to its beauty, even visitors who only have 2 days in Brussels usually head here on their second day.

While it can get crowded (especially in summer), its well-preserved centre is definitely worth visiting with the Grote Markt acting as the heart of the old town. Towering over it and the rest of the city is the enormous Belfry of Bruges – one of its main landmarks.

Built in the thirteenth century, it reaches 83 metres in height with the top of the tower offering amazing views of all the fantastic old Flemish buildings and restaurants full of people below.

From here, it is just a minute’s walk to the Basilica of the Holy Blood on Burg Square. Aside from gazing in awe at its gorgeous Gothic Revival architecture, you can examine a precious old relic that is said to contain a cloth with the blood of Jesus Christ.

Right next to it is the stunning City Hall – yet another of Bruges’ incredible architectural gems that seem to appear almost everywhere. After snapping some photos of its ornate facade, a visit to the nearby Groenige Museum will take you through six centuries of fine Flemish art.

On the way back to the train station, make sure to stop by some local lace shops and amble along by some canals. Even if you only end up having four, five or six hours in the city, you’ll still see a lot as everything lies so close together and all its buildings look so beautiful.

Although it is larger and livelier than Bruges, Ghent arguably has fewer ‘must-see’ sights and a smaller centre so you don’t ‘need’ to spend so long here. Once you arrive, simply hop on a tram towards Eindhalte and get off at Korenmarkt in the historic centre.

From St. Michael’s Bridge, you can bask in divine views of the city’s three soaring towers, all lined up one behind the other before you.

After visiting St. Nicholas’ Church and the Belfry of Ghent, clamber up to the top of the largest of the three, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, for sweeping panoramas over the whole centre below. It also houses ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ – an impressive altarpiece made by Jan van Eyck in 1432.

Afterwards, you can visit the city’s twelfth-century castle ‘Het Gravensteen’ or sit with all the locals alongside the Graslei. You can also take relaxing and romantic river cruises along this part of its canals which provide an even better look at the elegant architecture on either side.

Before bringing your time in Brussels (and Ghent and Bruges!) to a close, try and find the cosy Dulle Griet for one last Belgian beer.

Out of its 500, choose ‘Max Van Het Huis’ for your most memorable drink yet. As the glass is so special, you have to give up one of your shoes as collateral which is then hoisted to the ceiling. Just don’t forget to retrieve it before making your way back home!

Where to Stay in Brussels

Motel One Brussels – This hotel is perfect for those on a mid-range budget visiting Brussels. There are a number of clean and comfortable rooms to choose from, a buffet breakfast and on-site bar available and a great location for exploring the city.

Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre – Those on the hunt for a luxury stay in the Belgian capital will love this plush hotel. There are a range of sophisticated rooms to choose from, an excellent breakfast available to guests, a number of lovely amenities and a fantastic, central location perfect for exploring the best of Brussels.

Appart’City Confort – If you’re after the convenience of your own apartment but still want the comfort and amenities offered by a hotel, then this is a great choice for you. They have a range of flats on offer and great services for guests to enjoy.

MEININGER Bruxelles City Center – With a game room, bar, breakfast and kitchen facilities, this central hostel has clean and modern dorms and private rooms along with a central location – a great budget option in Brussels!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brussels hotels!

So there you have it, the perfect Brussels itinerary! In just 2 or 3 days, you can see all the city’s main sites, venture off the beaten path and even see Bruges and Ghent too.

Are you planning to visit Brussels? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Ghent Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

Brussels or Bruges: Which Belgian City to Visit?

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Home » Europe » Belgium » Brussels

Insider Brussels Itinerary (2024 • Glow Up)

Brussels . A city where the waffle scene is completely off the rails and bureaucracy is so efficient that nothing ever really gets done…

In short, the perfect EU headquarters! ( ED: Bit far?)

ANYWAY, Brussels is packed full of wonderful attractions, and you’re gonna be hard-pressed to catch ’em all. Hence, I have written this top class Brussels Itinerary , perfect for putting all your timing concerns at ease.

I’ll cover all the main visitor essentials, starting from ‘how to not sound French’ and ‘being exceptionally lost’ all the way to ‘getting Koreans to take your photos’. I might even repent my European Union joke too.

Let’s jump into Brussels!

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Brussels Itinerary

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So you’re heading over for a quick visit to Belgium and telling your friends that Belgian delicacies are simply divine (whilst spending all of your money on local brew)?

Outstanding work. However, your time is precious! Exceptional things to do seem to spring out of every corner, and you are starting to see why the Belgian Capital was selected as the European Union’s headquarters…

This 3-days in Brussels Itinerary is going to sweep you with ease through the top attractions, places to visit , and general ambience of this city. I might even try and keep it entertaining for ya too…

There’s a lot to cover, so take this guide as a general base upon which you can structure your own personalised itinerary. I’ve slipped in some hidden gems (like chocolate shops, royal palaces and the Brussels Stock Exchange) so pay attention…

3-Day Brussels Itinerary Overview

• Day 1:  The Grand Place | Brussels City Museum | Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | Mont Des Arts | Mannekin Pis | Choco Story | Brussels Beer Tour
• Day 2:  Atomium | Mini Europe | Musical Instruments Museum | Royal Palace of Brussels | Museum of Fine Arts | Notre Dame Du Sablon
• Day 3: Parc Du Cinquantenaire | Museum of Natural Science | Belgian Comic Strip Centre | Le Botanique

And so the first day passes. You’re going to need an EPIC place to stay ! Never fear, because I have curated an excellent selection of accommodation that even the choosiest shan’t fail to love…

City Centre

Brussels’ City Centre is a magnet for tourists, with dazzling architecture, interesting attractions, and a good choice of places to eat, drink, shop, and sleep.

The Marolles

The Marolles is one of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for people looking for budget accommodation. Soak up the local vibe and discover the working class side of the Belgian capital.

Saint Gery was previously an island in the River Senne. There’s no water crossing needed today, though; the river was covered up and Saint Gery joined with the rest of the city.

Saint Gilles

Our choice for the coolest place to stay in Brussels, Saint Gilles is a youthful, bohemian, trendy, multicultural, and lively part of the city.

Ixelles is an arty and trendy neighbourhood with a good selection of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. Lakes, parks, and forests are within easy reach and the area is well connected by public transport.

The Grand Place | Brussels City Museum | Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | Mont Des Arts | Mannekin Pis | Choco Story | Brussels Beer Tour

Today we’re literally just going to be covering in and around the Grand Place. There is so much to see! If you’re wondering what to see in Brussels in two days, here’s the start to any good 2-day Brussels Itinerary .

8:00 am – Visit the Grand Place

Visiting the Grand Place is one of the best ways to kick off your Brussels itinerary. This impressive square is considered the central point of the main area in Brussels, and walking around it will leave anyone completely inspired!

The square is lined with some magnificent buildings, offering possibly the best architectural display in the city! These buildings all have rich histories, and exploring them will give you a good idea of what life in Brussels would have looked like many years ago! The main focal point when visiting the Grand Place is the 15th-century city hall in the centre.

The Grand Place always has something fun going on. This square is full of cool cafes, bars, and shops. Sometimes there is a flower market in the centre of the square, and at night there is always a great vibe here!

Walking around the Grand Place is an essential first stop to help you get your bearings, and take in some of the best buildings in the city.

Take the time to grab a coffee and some breakfast while you’re here!

Insiders Tip: For a new and beautiful perspective of the Grand Place, visit at night when it is all lit up!

• Cost:  Free
• How long should I spend here?  Around an hour.
• Getting there: There are a literal bucket load of bus stops, the metro, and trams! Grand Place ought to do it.

9:00 am – Take a Visit to The Broodhuis

The Broodhuis, found on the Grand Place, is an old building with a long and interesting history as a bread market. Today, it is the site of the Brussels City Museum which has got to be the best place to learn all about this city’s amazing past.

The Brussels City Museum is dedicated entirely to the history of this city. The displays and exhibitions date back to the middle ages and take you through time right up until the present. If you want to learn more about Brussels and what’s going on around you, then a stop at this museum is a brilliant idea.

Insiders Tip: If you get a Brussels Card when arriving in the city, you will be able to access discounted rates on many museums and attractions- including this one!

• Cost:  $9
• How long should I spend here?  1 hour or less.
• Getting there: You should already be in the right place! Just stroll over to the right side!

10:00 am – Go Shopping at the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is an ensemble of brilliantly glazed shopping arcades in the heart of Brussels. If you want to experience some of the best shopping that this city has to offer, all in a fantastic setting, then this is the place!

One of the best things to do in Brussels is to simply walk around the streets, popping into the interesting shops and appreciating the amazing architecture around you. The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert has got to be one of the best places to experience this during your Brussels itinerary!

If you are staying in a top-tier Brussels hostel , I guess you can look or something. (haha)

• How long should I spend here?  Try 1.5 hours
• Getting there: It’s 1 minute’s walk. Literally just down the street!

12:00 pm – Explore the Mont Des Arts

If you want to explore more of the amazing museums and historical-cultural collections in Brussels, then consider visiting the Mont Des Arts.

Aside from being such a beautiful place in Belgium , this city is a cultural hub with prominent museums dedicated to art, history, and culture.

When exploring the Mont Des Arts, you could visit the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium and the Brussels Meeting Center square, a beautiful public garden (more commonly known as the Mont Des Arts Gardens)!

Central Brussels is popping, so be sure to check out if something is happening when you travel to Brussels. However, you don’t need an event going on to attract you to this exciting part of the city!

Besides all of the art and culture available here, the Mont Des Arts boasts a fantastic public garden -the perfect place to catch some fresh air in the city. The buildings and architecture around here are also well worth admiring!

Take the time to stop for some lunch close by. Belgian food is fantastic!

• How long should I spend here?  Around 2 hours.
• Getting there: It’s a 6-minute walk South-East from the last stop.

2:30 pm – Experience Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a funny little statue of a young boy urinating into a fountain. While the statue is small, it plays a massive role in Brussels. The Manneken Pis is an iconic landmark of the city, and when taking yourself on a Brussels walking tour, stopping here is a must!

The Mannekin Pis statue dates back to the 17th century where it was designed by James Duquesnoy. This statue may be fun to look at, but finding it is half the adventure. On your way to the Manneken Pis, you will wander through some stunning little streets and lanes around the old town. This is a must-see sight when in Brussels!

Insiders Tip: If you enjoyed the Manneken Pis, you can find the famous trio of urinating statues in Brussels, including the Jeanneke Pis and Het Zinneke.

• How long should I spend here?  Half an hour or less
• Getting there: Another 6-minute walk! Easy…

3:00 pm – Visit Choco-Story Brussels

When visiting Brussels, eating is definitely going to be one of the highlights! Your itinerary for Brussels will be full of amazing food, with lots of chocolate included.

If you want to learn all about the famous and delicious chocolate of Belgium, visit the awesome Choco-Story. This is a small museum in the city dedicated to all things chocolate! When visiting, you will get to learn all about the history and heritage behind Belgian chocolate, as well as some good insight into the production!

Fun live demonstrations take place here, guided by a master chocolatier. There are also plenty of interesting exhibits. Of course, your trip will also involve tasting some amazing sweets!

• Cost:  $15
• How long should I spend here?  Around 2 hours
• Getting there: Just next to the last stop!

8:00 pm – Tackle a Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

Visiting Belgium just wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the country’s amazing beers. Consider taking a Belgian beer tasting tour to explore the interesting brews that this country has to offer!

Guided by a knowledgeable local, a beer tour will take you to some of the best bars that the city has to offer. These are historical old places, and as you sample the pruduce, you will learn all about the rich history and heritage behind the beers.

Your tour will teach you all about what many consider to be the world’s greatest beer culture. You will learn about the different Trappist beers, their history , and what makes them so unique.

This is a great tour to learn about a new side of Brussels culture, taste amazing and unique beers, see some fun places in the city, and meet new people! If you are a beer fan then a tour like this is a must during your Brussels itinerary.

• Cost:  $$$
• How long should I spend here?  All day, All night?
• Getting there: Different tours will start in different places. Make sure to double check!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Atomium | Mini Europe | Musical Instruments Museum | Royal Palace of Brussels | Museum of Fine Arts | Notre Dame Du Sablon

Spending a couple of days in Brussels will have you enjoying some of the best landmarks, gardens, museums, food, and experiences in the city! Here is your day two itinerary:

8:30 am – Experience The Atomium

When looking at what to do in Brussels, a visit to the Atomium is a must! This massive atom shaped sculpture is found in the city’s Heysel Park. The sculpture stands at 100m tall, and it dates back to 1958.

You can get inside this huge structure and enjoy some amazing views from its glass roof lift. At the top, there is a brilliant spot to enjoy a drink or something to eat while inside the amazing Atomium!

When visiting this Brussels landmark, it is advised to take some time to explore the surrounding Heysel Park, as there is plenty to see here as well. Witnessing the enormous atom though will definitely be an unforgettable moment!

Insiders Tip: This Brussels attraction is very popular and it can get pretty busy, so try to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds.

• Cost:  $16
• How long should I spend here?  Around an hour (unless you’re breakfasting at the top)
• Getting there: Take the tram! The number 3 will get you within reach from Grand Place.

10:00 pm – Take a Trip Through Mini Europe

If you don’t have the time to travel across Europe, then adding a stop at Mini Europe to your Brussels itinerary is a good option! This park is a really fun place to experience Europe’s best and most famous landmarks, all built to scale in a miniature form.

Walking through Mini Europe is a unique thing to do when touring Brussels. Seeing all of the little landmarks really is such fun, and it is also really informative too!

Insiders Tip: This attraction is very child-friendly, and can be fun for the whole family!

• How long should I spend here?  Around 1.5 hours
• Getting there: It’s just a short walk from the Atomium. They’re a real pair!

12:00 pm – Experience the Musical Instruments Museum

This art nouveau museum is housed in one of the most famous buildings in the city (the Old England Building). Many people are attracted to this museum for the fantastic building, but the museum itself has some interesting displays that are well worth the visit!

This museum is focused on musical instruments, and a stop here will show you so much on the subject! With over 8,000 instruments in the collection, you will get to see, hear, and witness all kinds of musical history. This is a unique and interesting stop to add to your Brussels itinerary!

• Getting there: Back to the centre! The number 6 metro will do it.

2:00 pm – Admire the Palais Royal (or Royal Palace)

The Palais Royal is the official residence of the Belgian royal family, and it is a beautiful building to walk around and admire. The palace is open for exploring with no entrance fee, and it is definitely worth the visit!

Walking around here is a great way to take in one of the older and most stunning buildings in the city. It is also a really interesting place to learn about the history of Belgian royals.

Besides the building, the palace has an impressive royal garden. Spend some time exploring this area, and enjoying the royal side of Brussels!

• Getting there:

3:30 pm – Pay a Visit to the Musee Royaux Des Beaux-Arts

The Musée Royaux Des Beaux-Arts, or the Royal Museum of Fine Arts is a paradise for lovers of art and culture. This impressive museum houses some world-class art, spanning various collections of modern and ancient art!

Some of the most famous artists on display in this museum include Peter Rubens, Anthony Van Dyke, and Hans Memling. However, there are countless works of incredible European art that will have you awestruck!

This museum is pretty big, and there really is so much on display. If you love art, then be sure to allocate a good amount of time to this museum.

• Getting there: It’s just a short walk from the Royal Palace.

5:00 pm – Witness the Notre Dame Du Sablon

The spectacular Notre Dame Du Sablon cathedral is an important historic and architectural site in the city. Dating back to the 14th century, this cathedral is a really well-preserved example of Gothic architecture!

There was once a famous Madonna statue inside the cathedral that was supposed to have had incredible healing properties. The original statue was stolen by a team of thieves, and its whereabouts are still unknown. There is however a replica statue up in place.

This cathedral is a beautiful building to walk around and appreciate. A great stop to add to your Brussels itinerary! We’re sure that this is a long day, so take the evening to relax and chill out, or head to an amazing restaurant!

• How long should I spend here?  Less than 1 hour
• Getting there: Walking!

Parc Du Cinquantenaire | Museum of Natural Science | Belgian Comic Strip Centre | Le Botanique

The final day. Here are some things that you will love doing on your last day in Brussels! There’s a big arch, some big dinosaurs, some big cartoons, and some big plants. A top day. Or you could sit in your sexy Brussels Airbnb .

9:00 am – Stroll Through the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

The Parc Du Cinquantenaire is a great addition to your Brussels itinerary for a number of reasons. You can visit this lovely green space to either take a break from the city, enjoy a picnic under a tree, marvel at the old architecture in the park, or visit some of the surrounding museums.

This park was built during the reign of King Leopold II, and it should be an essential stop on your trip to Brussels. Take some time to wander through the well-kept gardens, and enjoy the impressive arches and statues found in the park.

If you love history or art, then explore the surrounding museums. These are all world-class, and they cater to all kinds of interests. Collectively, these museums have a whopping 35,000 artefacts on display!

You can grab breakfast from a cafe or restaurant nearby (and coffee, although that kind of goes without saying). The Brussels Autoworld Museum is located inside too. Car fanatics, this means you!

Insiders Tip: Try to visit the Parc du Cinquantenaire on a sunny day, as relaxing under a tree on the grass here is a truly special experience.

• How long should I spend here?  You could easily spend all day (don’t though). Try 1.5 hours.
• Getting there: Bus, Metro or Tram! It’s pretty easy to find!

11:00 am – Museum des Sciences Naturelles

Are you interested in stepping into the largest dinosaur gallery in Europe? A mix of exciting temporary exhibits and carefully curated permanent ones? Then you’re going to want to head to the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences!

This is a great thing to do with kids, who will love the history, reality, and interactive exhibits. In a city where many museums are rather static, this one is more hands-on and amusing. As a bonus, your children might even learn something, because it is all geared towards educating (yes, even you adults). It is a museum after all. The Museum of Natural Sciences is a great place to stop before lunch, which I’m sure you will be needing after the morning’s excitement!

• Cost:  $14 (13 euros)
• Getting there: You can stroll over from the Parc du Cinquantenaire . It’s around a 15-minute walk, but it is a very pretty one.

2:30 pm – Visit the Belgian Comic Arts Museum

Before embarking on the afternoon of Day 3, you might want to return to the Brussels Grand Place for a bit of lunch. You’ve seen it once, how about twice?

Brussels has a fascinating history and culture, but many don’t realize that comic books have played a big role in this! If you want to explore a new side of Belgian and learn all about the interesting role of comic books in this country, then head to the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

This museum has some brilliant displays, all dedicated to comic books. You will get to see some really fun objects, as well as valuable comic books and collectables!

If you want to discover more about the importance of comic books to Brussels, take a walk through the city spotting the huge comic murals found on many buildings.

• Cost:  $11
• Getting there: It’s half an hour’s walk from the Natural Science Museum. Definitely time for some lunch!

5:00 pm – Explore Le Botanique

Le Botanique is the old botanical gardens of Brussels, now a stunning urban park! If the city is getting a bit much, this is the perfect place to quickly escape to for some greenery, peace, and quiet.

Le Botanique is a terraced park with many impressive gardens around it. There are some peaceful benches and playgrounds for the kids!

The old Greenhouse in the garden has been converted into a kind of cultural center, offering some brilliant performances and concerts at night. This can be a really fun thing to do in the evening.

Whether you come for the stunning terraced gardens, the quiet, or the fun greenhouse performances, Le Botanique is a lovely escape from the city.

Insiders tip: The museum here is well worth a visit, and it has constantly changing exhibitions. Be sure to check out what’s on before you visit!

• Cost:  $6
• How long should I spend here?  Around 1.5 hours.
• Getting there: Le Botanique is just a short walk from the Comics Art Museum

So you’re stuck in Brussels for three months while your family moves into the new house? Here are some extra things you can fill your time with, including some top-class Brussels day trips!

Take a Brussels Walking Tour

If you are planning a trip to Brussels, definitely consider taking part in one of the amazing walking tours which operate around the city. It’s one thing following a map around and guiding yourself, but when you are part of an informative tour you will see, learn and experience so much more!

Free walking tours of Brussels will teach you the interesting stories behind some of the city’s most famous monuments! You will get to witness many major landmarks up close, and you will be guided through it all by passionate and well-informed locals.

Besides history and architecture, you will also get to learn all about the local food and beer. As you walk along with your tour, you will pass many different street food stands and local delicacies!

If you’re spending a weekend in Brussels, adding a walking tour to your Brussels itinerary is a great way to really see most of the city!

• Cost:  Around $20
• Getting there: Most Tours will leave from Grand Place

Enjoy the Brussels Nightlife

While Brussels is famous for its art, history, museums, and architecture, they still know how to party in this city! If you are looking for some exciting ways to fill out your Brussels itinerary, definitely consider diving into some of the vibrant nightlife in this city!

You could visit a central area such as the Grand Place to enjoy some popular bars, pubs, and fun local hangouts. This is a great place to meet loads of new people and see the city in a new light.

If you are looking for more of a dancing scene, then head out to Rue du Marche au Charbon. This area is famous for its exciting clubs and many super trendy bars!

Brussels is a city that has loads on offer- both during the day and by night. So, be sure to check out the nightlife here if you want to experience all that this city has to offer!

• Cost:  $$$+
• How long should I spend here?  Not a legitimate question here.
• Getting there: Rue du Marche au Charbon is where you want to be…!

Antwerp Day Trip From Brussels

Brussels is an amazing city, but if you have the time, why not explore more of Belgium? This day trip from Brussels takes you to Antwerp- one of the most loved cities in this country.

Antwerp is famous for being the fashion capital of Belgium, and is often referred to as “Belgium’s Diamond.” Your day trip will take you through the many important areas of Antwerp, including the diamond district where you will learn all about the diamond history and the cutting process.

You will get to see a palace, an amazing cathedral, famous houses, museums, the Scheldt River, and more! Of course, there will be time to explore the beautiful streets of Antwerp, do some shopping, and enjoy an unforgettable meal here.

• How long should I spend here?  A day?
• Getting there: Train! It is the best way.

Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour

Another spectacular destination in Belgium that is well worth a visit (if you have time), is Bruges. Often referred to as “Venice of the North”, Bruges is a medieval town that boasts incredible canals, old buildings, cobbled streets, and plenty of charm!

This full-day trip from Brussels includes a 4-hour walking tour through Bruges. Guided by a knowledgeable local. You will get to see some of the top attractions and points of interest in Bruges and will gain a better understanding of this town through your expert guide.

The tour includes return train tickets to Bruges from Brussels!

• Getting there: Train! It is the best way!

While your trip to Brussels can be enjoyed all year round, this city does have its more appealing times to visit. Belgium experiences all four seasons pretty distinctly, so choose your visiting time wisely as the weather may impact your trip. Bear in mind that Brussels does experience rain all year round, so be prepared for potential rain during your Brussels itinerary no matter what time you visit!

Wondering when to visit Brussels? The best time to visit this city would be between March to May and September to October. These times are considered the shoulder seasons when the crowds of tourists are fewer, the prices are lower, but the weather is still great!

Some may prefer to place their Brussels trip itinerary around December to experience the wintery charms of the city, while others would opt for visiting in April when there is the least rain. No matter what time you plan your vacation in Brussels, you will be able to enjoy this city in a beautiful and unique way!

Before you start planning exactly what you will be doing in Belgium’s capital city, it is important to know how you will be getting around. Luckily, Brussels is really easy to navigate. The excellent public transport here makes it exceedingly easy to get around!

If you are based around the central part of the city, the best way to get around is by walking! Simply wandering through the streets here is one of the best things to do during your Brussels itinerary as this city is so beautiful! Many of the best things to see here are best appreciated while walking, and many of the main attractions are within close proximity of each other.

If you plan on travelling further distances though, there is an excellent metro system in Brussels. This is an affordable way of getting around, and it is also highly efficient. This city also has a solid bus network that is even more affordable. Trains are also a good option for longer distances!

Taking a taxi is also easy to do in Brussels! You can either grab one of the many cabs that drive around the city or use Uber to easily find a ride. Brussels is a great safe city too!

Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to start planning the ultimate Brussels itinerary!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Brussels

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here’s what people usually ask us when they’re planning a trip to Brussels.

How many days in Brussels is enough?

Since I’ve written a top-tier 3-day Brussel Itinerary, I’d say you need at least 3 days to explore Brussels fully. You can cover most of the well-known activities in 2 days if you really push it, but to get a true sense of the city, that third day is extra important!

Is one day enough to see Brussels?

One day in Brussels only allows you to see a few attractions, but it’s definitely not enough to get a proper grasp of the city. If you only have one day, plan ahead so you don’t waste any time. You can definitely cover the Grand Place and the Atomium, but you won’t be able to slow down and actually enjoy the city so much.

What Should I Include in a 3-Day Brussels Itinerary?

A good 3-day Brussels Itinerary should include Grand Place, an investigation of both Belgian chocolate and Belgian beer, the Atomium, Mini Europe, the Museum of Natural Science, and the Brussels Royal Palace. If you have time, head to the Belgian Comic Strip Center, City Hall, and the Art and History Museum.

What Should I Include on a Day Trip to Brussels?

Don’t miss Grand Place (and all of its surroundings), the Mont Des Arts Gardens, the Royal Palace, the Atomium and Mini Europe. If you can do all these in a single day, I will be seriously impressed! Brussels is awesome, and you should really think about compiling that perfect 1-day Itinerary!

Brussels is a magical city with so many amazing activities to discover! Whether you come for the art and culture, the world-class museums, the incredible architecture, or the unbelievable food, this city will have you dreaming of your return!

Of all of the amazing things to do during your Brussels itinerary, one of the best things is to just walk around the city’s charming old streets and appreciate the stunning surroundings. There is such a unique charm that can be found in Brussels, and it is a place that you really can’t compare to anywhere else!

I hope that my ultimate Brussels itinerary helps you to make the most out of your trip to Belgium’s capital. I love visiting Brussels and am sure that you will too. Happy travelling!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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How Many Days in Brussels is Enough? Itinerary & Tips

Today, we’ll embark on a journey to Brussels, a city that effortlessly blends tradition with modernity. Do you happen to know how many days in Brussels is enough to make the most of Belgium’s vibrant and multicultural capital?

If you’re planning a trip to Brussels —or considering it—I’ll help you answer that very question. I’ll give you plenty of tips regarding transportation, the best time to visit, and more, as well as a few Brussels itineraries that will cater to the number of days you’ll be spending in the city.

Ready? In the best Brussels fashion: allons-y / laten we gaan !

Table of Contents

How many days in Brussels?

How many days do you need in Brussels to tour the city at an enjoyable pace? While 2 days is feasible, you should go for 3 days in Brussels to take in the local atmosphere as you visit all the must-sees. Alternatively,  you can also go on a day trip to Bruges or Ghent on your third day in Belgium.

Planning your trip to Brussels

First things first, check your passport and make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. It’s always a good idea to have a valid travel insurance policy in place to cover any unexpected situations that might arise during your trip.

Before booking your flights, look up visa requirements for citizens of your country. Folks from most of Europe and the Americas, as well as countries like Australia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea, can enter Belgium without applying for a visa beforehand.

Next up, decide on the best time to visit Brussels. The city has a moderate climate, but the weather can vary throughout the year. Spring and summer (April to September) are generally pleasant and vibrant, with festivals and outdoor activities in full swing.

Accommodation is an important factor to consider. Brussels offers a range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. The city center is a popular choice for its convenience, as it puts you within walking distance of many attractions.

Finally, let’s talk about money . Belgium uses the euro, so make sure you exchange your money and carry some cash on hand for smaller establishments that might not accept cards.

1 day in Brussels

9:00 a.m. – Start your day at the magnificent Grand-Place , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the guild halls and the stunning Brussels City Hall . Take a guided tour of the surroundings as you sink your teeth into a finger-licking Belgian waffle from Obe.

10:00 a.m. – It’s time to meet Brussels’ famous bronze statue, Manneken Pis . This cheeky little boy has been amusing visitors for centuries. It’s located a stone’s throw from the Grand-Place.

10:30 a.m. – Head to Mont des Arts , a picturesque garden square with a panoramic view of the city. Admire the beautiful flower beds, fountains, and sculptures while taking in the breathtaking vista.

11:00 a.m. – Dive into the world of surrealist art at the Magritte Museum . Discover the works of the famed Belgian artist René Magritte and explore his fascinating artistic journey. 

12:00 p.m. – After the museum visit, satisfy your hunger at Les Petits Oignons , where you can taste moules-frites (i.e. mussels and fries), Belgium’s national dish.

1:30 p.m. – Next, make your way to the Museum of Fine Arts , which houses an impressive collection spanning from the Flemish Primitives to the masters of the Renaissance and beyond. 

3:30 p.m. – Take a leisurely stroll to the Royal Palace , an impressive neoclassical building. While the palace itself will be closed for renovations until the summer of 2024, you can admire its grandeur from the outside and wander through the surrounding Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles), a serene oasis in the city center.

5:00 p.m. – It’s time to admire the stunning Brussels Cathedral (Cathédrale Saints-Michel-et-Gudule). Step inside and marvel at the Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive organ.

5:30 p.m. – Finish your day with a leisurely stroll through the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert . Browse through the luxurious boutiques, chocolate shops, and artisanal stores. 

6:30 p.m. – If you’re looking for a special dinner experience, hit Fin de Siècle , a traditional Belgian brasserie known for its genuine Belgian cuisine and warm atmosphere.

2 days in Brussels

9:00 a.m. – Make your way to Mini-Europe , located near the Atomium. Step into a world of miniature replicas of famous European landmarks. Explore the intricately crafted models and learn about the diverse cultures and history of Europe.

11:00 a.m. – After your visit to Mini-Europe, head to the Atomium , one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. Marvel at its futuristic design and take a ride in the panoramic elevator to enjoy stunning views of the city. 

12:00 p.m. – Take a short stroll to Park de Laeken , a serene and expansive green space located nearby. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the park, breathe in the fresh air, and find a quiet spot to relax and have a picnic.

2:30 p.m. – Make your way to the Hergé Museum , dedicated to the iconic Belgian cartoonist and creator of Tintin. Explore the museum’s engaging exhibits, showcasing the life and work of Hergé. Immerse yourself in the world of Tintin, Snowy, and their thrilling adventures.

5:30 p.m. – As your day comes to a close, head back to the city center to tour Sainte-Catherine , a charming neighborhood known for its picturesque canals and lively atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk along the Quai aux Briques and soak in the beauty of the surrounding architecture. 

7:00 p.m. – Grab a delightful dinner at La Belle Maraîchère , which serves the freshest seafood in town.

3 days in Brussels

9:00 a.m. – Begin your day at the Parc du Cinquantenaire , a magnificent park with beautiful arches and green spaces. Take a leisurely walk through the park and admire the impressive Triumphal Arch at its center.

10:00 a.m. – Make your way to the European Quarter , where you can explore the heart of European politics and governance. Visit the European Parliament and take a guided tour to gain insights into the European Union’s workings and its significance.

12:00 p.m. – Take a break and enjoy a delightful lunch at Au Cor de Chasse , a cozy Portuguese bistro with a Belgian twist.

1:00 p.m. – Head to Ixelles , a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its artistic atmosphere. Explore the lively streets lined with boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafés.

2:00 p.m. – Continue your journey along Avenue Louise , a bustling shopping street renowned for its upscale boutiques and designer stores. Treat yourself to some retail therapy and to a Belgian chocolate tasting at one of the renowned chocolatiers along the way.

4:00 p.m. – Venture into the bohemian neighborhood of Saint-Gilles , known for its vibrant street art, diverse culinary scene, and lively squares. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Horta Museum , a wonderful Art Nouveau house designed by the renowned architect Victor Horta.

6:00 p.m. – Wrap up your final day in Brussels with a memorable dinner at L’Ermitage Saint-Gilles , a beloved local brasserie. Savor the authentic flavors that make Belgian cuisine so tasty and indulge in authentic Belgian beer.

Day trips from Brussels

When traveling to Brussels, you’ll be thrilled to know that the city serves as an excellent launchpad for discovering some remarkable nearby destinations on day trips. Here are a few must-visit places that offer a diverse range of experiences:

Bruges: Dubbed the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a picturesque medieval city that will transport you back in time. Take a boat tour through its charming canals, visit the iconic Belfry Tower, and load up on delicious Belgian chocolates and other souvenirs from Belgium .

Ghent: With its blend of medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Ghent makes a delightful day trip from Brussels. Tour the Gravensteen Castle, and wander through the enchanting Graslei and Korenlei waterfront. Ghent and Bruges can be easily toured on a single day .

Antwerp: As Belgium’s second-largest city, Antwerp is a vibrant hub of art and fashion. Discover the impressive Antwerp Central Station, marvel at the grandeur of the Cathedral of Our Lady, and stroll through the historic streets of the Diamond District (the largest of its kind in the world).

Ostend: For a dose of Belgian coastal charm, head to Ostend. This bustling seaside town offers beautiful sandy beaches, a lively promenade, and a vibrant cultural scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront, and indulge in delicious seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Getting around Brussels

Moving around Brussels is a breeze, thanks to the city’s efficient public transportation network. Whether you prefer the subway, trams, buses, or even a shared bike ride, you’ll have no trouble exploring the city. 

Here’s a quick and comprehensive guide to help you navigate Brussels like a pro:

Subway ( Métro ): The Brussels Metro consists of four lines (1, 2, 5, and 6) that cover the city center and the surrounding districts. There are also three so-called premetro lines (3, 4, and 7), which are sort of partially underground, fast tram lines.

Trams: Brussels’ tram system is extensive and convenient, connecting most neighborhoods and popular attractions. Trams are an excellent way to soak in the city’s sights while getting around.

Buses: Brussels’ bus network spans both the city and its suburbs. Buses are a great option for reaching destinations not easily accessible by other modes of transportation, such as Brussels Airport (which is linked to the city center by line 12).

Bike sharing: If you’re up for an eco-friendly and active way to explore Brussels, consider using the Villo ride-sharing system. A day pass costs around $1.60, and the first 30 minutes of each ride are free. Just return the bike to any Villo station within 30 minutes to avoid extra charges.

When riding Brussels’ public transportation, keep note of the following tips to ensure a hassle-free and efficient ride:

Fares and payment: Subway, tram, and bus fares start from about $2.70 for a single journey within Brussels, but it’s wise to consider a MOBIB Basic Card ($5.60) for cheaper fares. Also, for ultimate convenience, contactless payment by credit cards, phones, or smartwatches is accepted throughout the system.

Brussels Card: To save money and make your travels more convenient, consider getting a Brussels Card . This all-in-one card grants you unlimited access to public transportation, as well as free or discounted entry to various attractions and discounts at shops and restaurants. You can choose from different durations, such as 24, 48, or 72 hours, starting from less than $36.

Ticket validation: If using physical tickets, remember to validate them upon boarding trams and buses. You’ll find the validation machines inside the vehicles. Inspectors occasionally check for valid tickets, so it’s essential to comply with the rules.

Travel tips for Brussels

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to embark on an amazing adventure in Brussels, diving into its captivating culture, delectable cuisine, and remarkable sights.

Be prepared for weather changes: Brussels’ weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for sudden rain showers. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially if you visit during the transitional seasons.

Get around with public transportation: Brussels has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and subway. You can purchase a Brussels Card for unlimited travel within the city and on top of that enjoy discounted access to various attractions.

Keep an eye out for pickpockets: As in any major city, you should be cautious of your belongings and stay alert, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Keep your valuables secure and consider using a money belt or a concealed pouch.

Respect language and etiquette: Consider brushing up on a few basic French and Dutch phrases, as both languages are widely spoken in Brussels. Politeness and courteous behavior are highly valued, so be sure to greet locals with Bonjour or Goedemorgen .

Experience Brussels’ Festivals: Check the local calendar for vibrant festivals that bring the city to life. From the Brussels Jazz Weekend (late May) to the colorful Ommegang Pageant (late June or early July), these events offer a glimpse into the city’s cheerful spirit.

Other Brussels FAQ

Is 2 days enough in Brussels? Though I spent 2 days in Brussels, I felt I had to rush through the city’s attractions to get to visit most of the must-sees. Yet if you’re pressed for time and feel more excited about exploring towns like Bruges, then two days in the capital is a fair compromise.

Is 3 days enough in Brussels? Absolutely! I feel like 3 days in Brussels is the magic number to tour both the old core and exciting outer boroughs like Ixelles and Saint-Gilles. You’ll also have the chance to visit the lovely Hergé Museum, which is an hour to the south of the city by train.

Is 4 days enough in Brussels? 4 days is the perfect amount of time if you want a full immersion into Belgian culture. If you run out of things to do in the city on your fourth day, in 60 to 90 minutes you can reach stunning Belgian towns or the country’s idyllic countryside. 

Is it better to stay in Brussels or Bruges? Consider your travel preferences and itinerary. If you enjoy exploring a big city with a wide range of activities, cultural offerings, and convenient transportation options, stay in Brussels. Yet if you prefer a quaint little town with a focus on historic charm and a more relaxed pace, a weekend stay in Bruges could be the perfect fit.

When is the best time to visit Brussels? Brussels is a year-round destination, and each season offers its own charm. Still, to avoid the peak tourist crowds and secure better deals on accommodation, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Also, check the event calendar for specific festivals or exhibitions that align with your interests.

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Ultimate Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend 2 days in Brussels

First time in Brussels? Here is everything you need to know to spend two perfect days in Brussels. Know where to eat in the best restaurants and see the best Brussels has to offer with this detailed Brussels travel guide.

Brussels is Belgium’s capital and bilingual heart of the country with street signs written in both French and Flemish Dutch . Brussels might be home to the headquarters of the European Union but its most famous landmark (and favourite amongst locals) is a small statue of a boy peeing (Mannekin Pis).  Beyond its many world-class musuems, Brussels is also a culinary hub that must be savoured. Start with a sweet Belgian waffle, enjoy  moules-frites  for lunch, try Waterzooi  for dinner and wash it all down with a Belgian beer. Don’t forget to take home some delicious Belgian chocolate.

Are you ready to explore Brussels? Here’s how to spend 2 days in Brussels.

Looking for something in particular? Use this table of contents below to jump around using the links.

Table of Contents

• Map of Brussels Itinerary

1. Brussels Comic Book Route

• 2. Manneken Pis

3. Jeanneke Pis

4. het zinneke, 5. la grand-place of brussels, 6. brussels city museum, 7. galeries royales saint-hubert, 8. brussels cathedral of st. michael and st. gudula, 9. mont des arts & the whirling ear.

• 10. National Basilica of the Sacred Heart
• 11. Parc Élisabeth

12. Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice)

13. brussels royal palace (palais royal de bruxelles), 14. park of the fiftieth anniversary (parc du cinquantenaire), 15. place du petit sablon, 16. atomium of brussels, 17. royal greenhouses of laeken (serres royales de laeken), what to eat in brussels – typical belgian food to eat.

• Where to Eat in Brussels
• How to Get to Brussels from the airport

Where to Stay in Brussels

• Got more time? Here are more things to do and see in Brussels

Map of Brussels, Belgium

This map shows you all the locations mentioned in this guide. Click on the pins for more information.

Blue Pins – Day 1 – Things to see in Brussels Pink Pins – Day 2 – Things to see in Brussels Green Pins – Where to eat in Brussels Yellow Pins – Extra things to do in Brussels if you have more time

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

How to Spend 2 Days in Brussels, Belgium

Day 1 – things to do in brussels (blue pins).

See Tintin by Hergé on Rue de l’Étuve

See ‘Le Passage’ by François Schuiten & Benoît Peeters on by Rue du Marché au Charbon 19

See ‘Broussaille’ by Frank Pé at Plattesteen

See ‘Victor Sackville’ by Francis Carin on Rue du Marché au Charbon 60

See ‘Olivier Rameau’ by Dany on Rue du Chêne 9

See ‘Benoit Brisefer’ by Peyo on Rue Haute 119

I’ve been to Brussels three times now and my absolute favourite thing to do in Brussels is still to scout out the street art murals that make up the Comic Book Route.

Belgium, especially Brussels, has a wonderful history and love for comic books and their creators. Did you know that Brussels was the birthplace of Tintin? To honour Belgium’s most famous comics the city of Brussels collaborated with the Belgian Comic Strip Center to install more than 50 large comic strips murals across the city.

These vibrant motifs show Tintin, Gomer Goof, the gauls Asterix and Obelix, Lucky Luke, Spirou and many others. Most of the murals are located inside the ‘Pentagon’, a local term used to describe the city centre due to its geometrical shape.

I’m mentioning this first on the itinerary because as you explore the city, you may want to take a few detours to see these incredible murals. Plus, hunting down these comic strips mural is a fantastic way to discover Brussels and explore some neighbourhoods that are less crowded by tourists.

How many can you find? Here is a complete list of the Comic Book Route.

2. Manneken-Pis

This small bronze statue of a little boy peeing boy was designed by Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder between 1618 and 1619. When the Manneken-Pis was first put in place, it played an important role is the distribution of drinking water.

When Brussels’ water network changed in the 19th century, Manneken-Pis slowly became a symbol for the people of Brussels representing their sense of humour and independence.

What many people don’t know is that the real name of the statue is Menneke Pis . In the local Brussels dialect, een manneke means a small man, whereas een menneke means a little boy.

During special events and festivities, this little boy peeing is dressed up in clothes in celebration. The current statue you see is a copy made in 1965, however, you can see the original in the Museum of the City of Brussels

Location: Corner of Rue de L’Etuve and Rue du Chêne, and Rue des Grands Carmes Metro: Bourse and Gare Centralle Tram: Annessens

Location: Rue des Bouchers Metro: Gare Centralle and De Brouckère

Going to Brussels? Get my free Flemish and French travel phrase guides.

To create a trilogy, there is a third statue called Het Zinneke, which depicts the dog of Manneken and Jeanneke peeing next to the road just like his owners. As the legends goes, Manneken and Jeanneke trained their dog to pee the only way they knew how – in public.

Location: Rue des Chartreux 35, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium Bus: Bourse

La Grand-Place was almost completely destroyed after it was bombarded by the French army in 1695. There is a wonderful mix of architectural styles including baroque, neoclassical and neo-gothic. Some of Belgium’s most opulent examples of 17th-century architecture can be found in the square with many buildings decorated in gold gilt.

The most impressive building of them all is City Hall built in the Gothic style and with a tower that stands 96 meters tall.

Don’t miss the monument to local boy Everard t’Serclaes, famous for helping to successfully push Flemish troops out of the city and named a liberator of Brussels.

In 1388 Sweder d’Adcoude, Lord of Gaesbeek, sent his men to attack t’Serclaes, a move that sadly cost Everard his tongue and his life. Everard breathed his last breath in La Grand Place in the Maison de l’Etoile. To ensure your return to Brussels, be sure to rub the arm of his statue.

Metro: Bourse Tram: Bourse

Opening Hours Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Closed on Mondays, January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, November 11th, December 25th

Admission: Adults: €8 <18 years old: free Seniors: €6 Students: €4

Split into two major sections, this is the oldest commercial galleries in Europe opening in 1847. Today is it still one of the most elegant. Each gallery is a hundred metres long and covered by a high glass dome that naturally lights the arcade.

Up until 1892, the Café des Arts that was located here was a meeting place for painters and writers of the time including Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and Edgar Quinet.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is definitely one of the highlights in Brussels and a great place sit in a cafe, sip on a Belgian hot chocolate and watch the world go by.

Location: 5 Galerie du Roi Opening Hours: Shops close at different hours but are open every day from 9:00 til late. Metro: Gare de Bruxelles-Central Tram: Royale

Due to its importance and location in Belgium’s capital, Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is often used for important ceremonies that are of national interest including royal weddings and state funerals. The “Treasure” of the cathedral is in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, guarded by a wrought iron gate originating from the 18th century.

Location: Parvis, Sainte-Gudele. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 07:00 – 18:00 Saturday, 08:30 – 15:30 Sunday, 08:30 – 14:00 Metro: Gare Centrale and Parc Tram : Parc

There are wonderful views over Brussels city from up here where you can see Brussels City Hall in La Grand-Place.

Metro: Gare de Bruxelles-Central Tram: Royale

10. National Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Cœur)

Inspired by the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur in Paris, the basilica stands 90 metres tall and 167 metres wide making it the fifth largest church in the world.

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart was built to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Belgium’s independence. Its most attention-grabbing feature is the enormous green dome.

Make sure you head to the terrace of the basilica for panoramic views over Brussels from 53 metres up. You can also access the museum and other semi-hidden parts of the basilica from the dome.

Location: 1 Parvis de la Basilique.Koekelberg. Opening Hours: Summer Opening Hours: 09:00 to 17:00. Winter Opening Hours: 10:00 to 16:00. Metro: Simonis (Leopold II). Tram: Bossaert-basilique.

11. Parc Élisabeth

Located in front of the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the largest urban public park in the centre of Brussels. Be sure to take a stroll along its beautiful promenades lined with trees and flower-beds or sit on the lawn and relax. The park even has an outdoor gym, a resting area and playground.

Day 2 – Things to do in Brussels (Pink Pins)

The Palace of Justice or Law Courts of Brussels is the most important court building in Belgium. This monumental building is said to be the largest building constructed in the 19th century, covering 260,000 square feet (24,000 square meters) and bigger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This angered locals for a long time and the word “architect” became a derogatory term.

The Palace of Justice is visible from almost the everywhere in the city plus there is an impressive view from the Palace itself in Place Poelaert. You’ll definitely want to head inside to see its gorgeous staircases.

Location: 1 Poelaert Square Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 17:00 Metro: Louise Tram: Poelaert and Louise

Location: Place du Palais, Paleizenplein. Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:30 – 17:00 last entry at 15:45, Open from 21st July to September Admission: Free as part of an official guided tour. Metro: Parc Tram: Palais

The Parc du Cinquantenaire, literally ‘Park of the fiftieth anniversary’ is more than just a large public park, it’s a national landmark in Brussels. The park was built during the reign of Leopold II to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Belgium’s independence in 1880.

Covering approximately thirty hectares, the park features various spacious gardens, a large arch, and three museums including Cinquantenaire Museum, Autoworld (a collection of more than 350 cars from different eras), and the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces.

For epic views over Brussels and the European Quarter, head to the top of the arch via the entrance at the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces. Admission is free!

Throughout summer the city holds numerous events in the park including concerts, club nights, festivals, drive-in cinemas, environmental days, aperitifs, and even the starting line to Brussels marathons.

Location: 11 Jubelpark Metro: Schuman and Mérode Tram: Place Saint Pierre

Location: 11 Jubelpark Metro:  Porte de Namur Tram: Royale

The Atomium stand 102 metres tall and is composed of nine spheres of 18 metres in diameter connected to each other by tubes with escalators. Inside the spheres are permanent and temporary exhibitions with the top-most sphere including a restaurant with wonderful panoramic views of the city.

The nine spheres of the Atomium represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. They symbolise the faith one had in the power of science and in nuclear power.

Initially, the Atomium was only meant to be dismantled after for six months but thanks to its huge popularity it was left standing and soon became a symbol of ideas of the future and universality.

Location: Atomium Square. Opening Hours: Everyday from 10:00 to 18:00. The restaurant opens until 23:00. Admission: Adults (18-65): €15 Senior citizens(>65): €13 Teens (>115cm-17): €8 Kids (≤115cm) : €0 Buy tickets online here Metro: Heysel Tram: Heysel

Located near the Atomium are the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, a complex of huge tropical, subtropical and cold greenhouses. The flora collections are a veritable feast for the senses. You’ll have to time your trip perfectly because the Royal Greenhouses are only open to the public for three weeks during Spring.  This is an excellent and rare opportunity to see the wonderful architecture of Alphonse Balat, the mentor of Victor Horta, and the many plants in the greenhouses.

Location : Avenue du Parc Royal 61 Metro: Stuyvenbergh Tram: Araucaria

Belgian waffle with banana and ice-cream

Here are local culinary specialities to try in Brussels:

• Carbonade flamande: Stew made with meat, beer, carrot, onion and panela (brown sugar).
• Mitraillette : It consists of half a baguette with meat, sauce, salad and fries, all of it inside the bread!
• Fricadelle : Deep-fried sausage served with French fries.
• Waterzooi : Dish made of chicken or fish swimming in a vegetable broth (onion, leek, celery, carrot) and cream. Usually served with potatoes or rice.
• Lapin à la bruxelloise: Slow stove-cooked rabbit with Geuze, a typical Brussels beer that is brewed with sour cherries.
• Stoemp : Potato puree mixed with one or more types of mashed vegetables (it can be carrot, leek, spinach, Brussels sprouts…). Commonly served with sausages or pan-seared bacon.
• Chicon au gratin : This dish is made of endives wrapped in a slice of cooked ham and covered in béchamel; all of it oven gratinated.
• Faisan à la Brabançonne : Typical Belgian dish that’s made of young pheasant, butter, peanut oil, chicory (endive) and parsley.
• Moules frites: Cooked mussels and French fries.
• Caricoles : A speciality of Brussels, caricoles are sea snails cooked with chopped celery, parsley leaves, pepper seeds, ground pepper and a dash of salt.
• Pâté gaumais : Pie filled with pork marinated in white wine or vinegar with spices and local herbs.
• Belgian chocolate.
• Cramique: Raisin brioche.
• Speculoos : Crunchy chunky-textured biscuit made with brown sugar.
• Gaufres de Bruxelles: The Brussels waffle is a rectangular-shaped pastry that’s eaten warm and can be served with whipped cream and powdered sugar.
• And, of course, all Belgian beers .

Where to Eat in Brussels (Green Pins)

‘T Kelderke in La Grand Place

Wondering where to eat in Brussels? I recommend dining in typical bistros for your best chances of trying the dishes mentioned above.

This is one of Brussels’ most emblematic restaurants, founded in 1893. The star of the menu is “moules frites”, the quintessential Belgian dish. These can come in a variety of sauces: marinara, white wine, tomato or garlic, just to name a few.

Location: Rue des Bouchers 18, Brussels 1000

Nuetnigenough

In this brasserie restaurant, some of the best “Carbonades Flamandes” can be found, served with a beer picked from the great selection on offer.

Location: Rue du Lombard 25, Brussels 1000

La Roue d’Or

Traditional brasserie of Brussels, located next to the Grand Place, that serves “Waterzooi”, which originates from Ghent and has spread all over Belgium.

Location: Rue des Chapeliers 26, Brussels 1000

‘T Kelderke

Typical restaurant housed inside an old 17th-century beer cellar. All the food is fresh from the same day’s market and an excellent place to try “Chicon au gratin”.

Location: Grand-Place 15, Brussels 1000

Au Brasseur

Belgian beer is as world-famous, probably more, as Belgian food. Belgium is the world’s number 1 beer producer and Belgians are said to drink an average of 100 litres of the stuff per year. Here, you will find all the most popular beers in Belgium.

Location: Rue des Chapeliers 9, Brussels 1000

How to get to Brussels City from the Airport and Back

From sur charleroi (crl) to brussels and back.

Bus (shuttle bus) The best way to reach Brussels from the airport is by shuttle bus. The company Flibco runs buses that connect Charleroi Airport with Brussels-Midi (on Rue de la France) every 20-30 mins. The journey takes 1 hour and costs 14,20 EUR one-way ticket costs £15 and the return ticket costs 28,40 EUR. These can be purchased at the terminal or onboard the bus. Buying a ticket online is slightly cheaper and will give you priority if the buses are busy.

Once you reach Brussels-Midi station, you can take the metro, tram or train to get to other stations in the city. On the way back to the airport, arrive at the bus stop 15 minutes before its scheduled departure to get a good spot in the queue.

Bus and train From Charleroi Airport you can catch a bus to Charleroi Train Station and take a train to Brussels from there. The combined bus & train ticket to/from Brussels costs around 9,90 EUR (depending on train fares).

From National Zaventem (BRU) to Brussels and back

Train: Quickest and cheapest The train is a good option to reach central Brussels from Zaventem. Trains stop at all the stations in Brussels and tickets start from 7,20 EUR . The journey only take 20 minutes. The train station is located on the lower ground floor of the airport. Check the latest times and prices here.

Bus: recommended for the European zone The company De Lijn connects the airport with the centre of Brussels and the company STIB does with the European Parliament. The ride time is between 30 and 40 minutes and it’s the recommendable option for business travellers or tourists who live in the European district. Check the lastest times and prices here.

For an alternative accommodation option, I would also recommend renting out one of these apartments or rooms through Airbnb . Cute Airbnb options are popping up all over the city so you’ll find some really beautiful places at very affordable prices. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.

Got more time in Brussels? Here are more things to see in Brussels and Belgium (Yellow Pins)

In brussels.

• Mini Europe – Located next to the Atomium is Mini Europe Park. Inaugurated in 1989, see over 350 reproductions on a 1 to 25 scale that represent 80 cities of the European Union. 
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (Musees Royaux des Beaux-Arts De Belgique) – Explore the size museums that make up the Royal Museums. Not to be missed is the Oldmasters Museum with its famous “Rubens Room”, which houses more than 20 paintings by the artist and Magritte Museum with the richest collections of paintings by the Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte.
• Hergé Museum – Immerse yourself in the world of Tintin.  Fans of Tintin won’t want to miss visiting Hergé Museum to see exclusive illustrations of the beloved detective and his dog Snowy. Even though the museum runs a shuttle service to the museum, this tour includes museum entry and round-trip transportation from Brussels for slightly cheaper.

Beyond Brussels

• Belgium’s Cutest City: 10 Wonderful Things to Do in Bruges
• Ghent Day Trip Itinerary: Top 10 Things to See in Ghent in One Day
• Day trip to Antwerp from Brussels

I hope this guide has answered all your questions and helped you plan your two days in Brussels. If you still have any questions or concerns, please reach out and leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help where I can. If not, then I wish you a wonderful trip!

Merci / dank je (thank you) for reading! 😉

Like it? Pin it for later

Sources Visit Brussels |  Visit Flanders

Over to you!

Do you have a question about this guide to Brussels? Have you visited Brussels before? What else would you recommend doing? Tell me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Hello, Michele. Very interesting article, as always. Just a little comment: it says the French army bombarded the Grand Place in 1965…obviously it’s a typo since the right date is 1695. 😉 Greetings and keep up the good work!

Ah! Yes, a silly typo. I appreciate the feedback. Thank you!

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Amazing Brussels for a Day Guide You’ll Need in 2024

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Wondering what to do in Brussels for a day?

You have got to the right place! In this article, you will find the top 16 things to do in Brussels for a day . As well as the most essential things to know before visiting Brussels including a very helpful FAQ at the end.

Trust me, I have been to Brussels countless times and always find something new and exciting to see within this amazing city. And because of all my personal experience, I can tell you that the good news is that Brussels is a compact city . Therefore, it can be easily explored on foot.

So, only having 1 day in Brussels, is enough time to visit the main sites and try some of Belgium’s delicious food…and Belgium beer, of course!

This is your one-stop guide without having to bounce around wasting hours to find all you need to know. So, without any further ado, let’s explore the best way to explore Brussels in one day!

Now if you are you are questioning if it is worth it going to Brussels for a day, or what is possible to explore in Brussels on a day trip, my answers are: YES and YES – There is a lot you can do in 24 hours in Brussels , and it is a must-visit destination in Belgium and you are about to find out why!

Brussels for a Day | Overview

If you only have one day in Brussels, I highly recommend  coming to Brussels with a well-defined itinerary , in order to maximize your time. The city is very walkable and Brussels has a great public transportation system, so take advantage of it.

Also, if you are planning to stay overnight, make sure you  choose accommodation in a good area , where you can walk to the main attractions. Making your reservations in advance is also part of a well-planned visit to Brussels. Even if you have no plans on how to explore Brussels for a day,  and you just prefer to wander around the city, you will certainly come across some of the main highlights.

One last very helpful tip is to try to  book your tickets to attractions in advance . The advantage of a guided tour is that you will spend a short time in lines, and learn more about Brussels from a local guide.

💡 CITY CARD: Take advantage of the Brussels Card that offers discounts and skip the line for the main attractions

💵 BRUSSELS ON A BUDGET: For a budget-friendly one day in Brussels you can reserve the hop-hop-off-bus guided sightseeing

📍 BEST HALF-DAY TOUR: This is the best-rated and the most comprehensive city tour in Belgium that will take you to the legendary landmarks and impressive monuments for only $33 per person!

🏆 OVERALL BEST TOUR: Brussels Belgium Chocolate Making Workshop (⭐️ 4.5/5)

📸 BEST PRIVATE TOUR: Private tour with a local guide (⭐️ 4.5/5)

🏨  BEST PLACE TO STAY: Rocco Fort Hotel Amigo   (⭐️ 9.0/10) | Apartment Chez Agnes (⭐️ 9.2/10)

Arrival in Brussels for One Day

✈️  BY PLANE:  

If you are flying to Brussels, you will arrive at the Brussels International Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport .  Brussels airport is only 30 minutes drive or a 15-minute metro into the city center. From South Charleroi Airport, you can take a shuttle bus which will take you to the city center train station and takes a little over an hour. I recommend using a private transfer from the airport – check for the best options:

• Transfer by Van: Pick you up from the airport by van with AC and wi-fi service, with low prices and great luxury
• Transfer by Car: This is my favorite option, as the price is very affordable and the service is great. They will drop you off at any place in Brussels City.

🚊  BY TRAIN:  

If you are traveling by train to Brussels, you will arrive at the Bruxelles-Midi station and the city center is only 25 minutes’ walking from the city center.

VISIT BRUSSELS FOR A DAY TRIP FROM A LARGE CITY:

• From Paris to Brussels day trip : By high-speed train Thalys – Travel Time 1:30
• From Amsterdam to Brussels day trip : by high-speed train Eurail – Travel time 2:45
• From Luxembourg to Brussels day trip : SNCB train   – Travel Time: 2:53
• From London to Brussels day trip : Take a high-speed train by Eurostar – Travel time: 1:53

🚗  BY CAR:  

Road trips are a great option, and actually, my favorite way to explore Europe. You get the chance to see and do a lot in a short period of time. When choosing a car rental online, my number one pick is always  Discover Cars . I personally use them and love them since they meticulously search through local and international companies to get you the best deal every time.

How to Get Around Brussels in One Day

🚶 BY FOOT: Brussels is a compact city, and all the main attractions are located within walking distance. This should be your first option to explore Brussels for a day, and be prepared to do a lot of walking!

🚵 BY RENTAL BIKE: Another great way to explore Brussels is by renting a bike. You have the option to rent an electric scooter too. Or you can join a  Brussels guided bike tour  for 3 hours and a very affordable price.

🚌 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Brussels has a great public transportation system. You can find the metro system, and it is a great option to take you to longer distances if you are planning to visit other parts of the city. You can also take advantage of the hop-hop-off-bus guided sightseeing

🚗 BY CAR: I DO NOT recommend renting a car and driving in Brussels. The traffic is heavy and it is not easy to find parking lots. If you arrive in the city by rental car, I recommend parking your car and exploring the city on foot.

16 Best Places to Visit for One Day in Brussels Itinerary

1. visit the grand place (or grote market).

• 💵 PRICE: Free
• 📌 ADDRESS: Grand Place 1000 Brussels

This was the first stop of my Brussels one-day itinerary. The Grand Place is the most iconic square in Belgium and is located in the heart of Brussels.

As soon as you arrive at this place you will be in awe! This is a must-see in your Brussels itinerary and a great starting point. 

With designs on the merchant and stunning gold ornate, making it the perfect representation of what Brussels was one day. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with three main structures that are the highlight:  the Town Hall, King’s house, and Guild Halls.

The square has also numerous restaurants, pubs, and coffee and chocolate shops, and it is a great place to have breakfast or grab a coffee (or a Belgium beer) while you can admire the stunning and detailed architecture, and do some people’s watching.

2. Enjoy the City Museum

• 💵 PRICE: Adults 8 EUR / Seniors 6 EUR / Children visit for Free
• 📷 HOW TO VISIT: Buy the Brussels City Card 24-hours to get great discount prices and skip the lines

This stunning building is also located at Grand Place, directly opposite the Town Hall in a neo-Gothic greyish building.

Housed inside the King’s House, you can visit the two floors and from house maps and 3D models of recreation of the city from the middle ages, to get to know the history of the Peeing Boy and the display of around 100 of its 700 costumes.

The main message of the Brussels City Museum is a “Free, amusing and carnivalesque” city, and the Mannekin Pis is a perfect symbol of that freedom.

It is a very interesting museum that explains the history and myths of the city to all the visitors. This museum is a great place to include on your 1-day itinerary in Brussels, and it is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm and closed on Mondays.

3. Check the Brussels Town Hall

• 📷 HOW TO VISIT: The Town Hall is open for limited guided tours , and if you have time, it is a well-worthy place to visit. If you are short on time, just admire the facade from the outside and pay special attention to the details.

You cannot miss the building with the bell tower, and the most iconic structure of the Grand Place square. This iconic 600-year-old site was built in different stages during the early part of the 15th century.

It was burned in 1695, but it was rebuilt shortly after, it is the only medieval building in its old form at the Grand Place, and it still houses a significant portion of municipal offices.

When you pay close attention, you will see that the building is asymmetrical, and one of the reasons why it is aesthetically criticized. Not by me or I believe any visitor since the construction is amazing in my opinion.

4. Take a Picture at the Manneken Pis Statue (or Little Men Pee)

• 📌 ADDRESS: 2 blocks behind, near the Town Hall

This is a must during your Brussels for a day itinerary. Just three blocks north of Grand Place, you can find the famous and Belgium’s most popular attraction – the Manneken Pis Statue. But don’t be upset, the statue is really small, and you will see the crowd in front of it trying to take a picture with the famous boy.

Another interesting fact is that Brussels has three “pis” statues that you can find in the old town. But the little boy is the most iconic one. You can also try to find the Het Zinneke, representing a life-size peeing dog, and the Jeanneke Pis, a statue of the peeing girl .

5. Stop for Lunch: Have some Frites (Belgium fries)

Frites , also known as french fries or potato chips or whatever you want to call them –  is the national dish in Belgium. It can be enjoyed with a burger, as a snack, or just as a meal on its own.

You can enjoy it with a thick cut and soft inside, or thin and crispy shoestring, there is a huge variation of flavors, shapes, and sauces, with salt and vinegar… There is one thing we need to agree on, and that is that you must try frites during your Brussels in a day.

You can find frites pretty much everywhere in Brussels, and you can try to visit one (or many) of the top friteries spread across Belgium.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  To explore the best delicious food in the town, this walking tour is a great option, and it combines the historical overview of the city. Frites or fries are very traditional and you can find them pretty much on every corner.

6. Palais de Bruxelles (Royal Palace of Brussels)

• 📌 ADDRESS: Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

If your one-day in Brussels itinerary has you visiting this amazing city in the summer then be sure to stop by the Royal Palace of Brussels. Not only is this one of the best free things to do in Brussels but this stunning building is the official workplace of the King and the Queen of Belgians.

Sadly, though, this is one of the best things to do in Brussels which is only open at certain times of year since this building serves as the King’s administrative residence and main workplace. Therefore, be sure to walk through the marvelous 18th – 20th-century interiors with lavish period-piece decor if you’re in the city between late July and late August.

It’s also worth noting that this is not the official royal residence since the royal family actually lives in the Royal Palace of Laeken in the north.

7. Visit St Michael et Gudula Cathedral during your 1-Day Brussels Itinerary

• 💵 PRICE: Free to visit the cathedral and 1 EUR for the Archaeological site
• 📌 ADDRESS: Place Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

This incredible Brabant Gothic style has two towers that give a very French appearance. It took 300 years to complete this construction, starting in 1226 with the facade dating back from the 15th century and concluding in 1519.

The cathedral has an impressive interior, made of a stone quarry, with the glass windows dating back from the 1500s, and the organ pipe with over 4,000 pipes is just incredible, and a great stop during your day trip to Brussels.

8. Try the Belgium Waffle Time: At least once during your 24 hours in Brussels!

A visit of one day in Brussels needs to have at least one stop for a waffle. Even if you don’t care about “other’s” waffles, the Belgium waffles are the original, and ridiculously amazing!

It has a lighter batter, is crispier, and has larger squares and deeper pockets that can be filled with fresh strawberries, creams, chocolate, or whatever your imagination can take you. One of the most authentic places you can get waffles in Brussels is at Maison Dandoy , near the Grand Place.

9. Check the Comic Strip Walls

Brussels is the birthplace of some iconic comics such as The Smurfs and Tintin. In honor of these and many other comic characters, you will find around the city, many comic strip murals, a total of 55 to be exact, which is a great thing to add to your Brussels 1 day itinerary.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  If you are a big fan of comics, you can start at the Comic Book Center , and make your way around the Comic Strip Walk   to try to catch them all. Or even better, you can hire a local guide to take you on the Brussels Comic Privat Walking tour – and get the chance to visit the open-air gallery plastered with incredible street art.

10. Visit the Gallery Royale Saint-Hubert on your Brussels itinerary

• 📌 ADDRESS: Galerie du Roi 5, 1000

This marvelous Galeries Royale from the 19th century is a great place to visit during your 24 hours in Brussels, and to go shopping or at least, window shopping. It is a place to be seen for fashionable, luxury brands, elegant cafés, and cultural spaces.

The gallery includes shops, auditoriums, cafés, restaurants, and apartments and you can find the best chocolate shops here too. If you are interested in exploring more, the Galerie Royale is home to the Museum of Letters and Manuscripts and honors the greatest men and women of art, history, music, the humanities, and science.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  It opens until 9:00 pm and you can visit it until late in the day. But if you want to just observe its beauty and get a picture without the crowds, early morning is the best time to go.

11. Walk to the Mont Des Arts on Your 1-day itinerary in Brussels

• 📌 ADDRESS: 1000 Brussels

The Mont Des Arts means Mount of the Arts . It is one of the most well-known places in Belgium.

It has a long and very colorful floral garden, and views of the city hall center ahead of the garden. It is an urban complex and historic site, including the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives of Belgium, the square – Brussels Meeting Center, and the stunning public garden.

This place was converted into an artist’s quarter by King Leopold II at the end of the 19th century when various architects and urban planners were called upon to draw plans of the building which were to accommodate all kinds of cultural institutions. Allow yourself at least 30 min to walk around and explore the beauty of this picturesque site. Then walk towards the city center to continue your Brussels 1 day itinerary.

12. Explore the City Center is one of the Best Things to do in Brussels for a day trip

Brussels city center is immediately around the Grand Place. It’s worse making time on your Brussels day trip to explore the city center and admire the beautiful buildings, trendy hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also feel the live vibe of the Belgium lifestyle, and watch some street performing music, arts, and dance.

13. Have a Drink at the Delirium Village

• 💵 PRICE: 3.90 EUR for a Delirium on tap or 30 EUR for a 2L. boot
• 📌 ADDRESS: Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles

This is a must-stop on your one day in Brussels, and you cannot miss a visit! Even if you are not a beer lover. I am not, but I still managed to have the whole beer in the boot! The Delirium Café holds the Guinness World Record for holding more than 2,000 beers from around the world. This is a multi-ambiance place split into four different sections: vodka, tequila, tap bar, and Belgium beer.

But even if beer is not your thing, this is a very cool place to visit as it is a multi-ambiance with the café and the bar on the second floor. It has a hoppy loft where you can try some of the big selections of micro-brewed beers and the Delirium Monsterium. Here you can try beer, and more than 300 vodka flavors from many different countries, including some very rare ones.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  I recommend joining this Belgium Beer Tour to learn about the history and variety of Belgium beers to how they are brewed.

14. Go on a Chocolate Tour on your Belgium day trip

Last, but not least during your Belgium for a day, you must add a Chocolate tour experience. Even for me, someone who is not big into chocolate, I have to say that there is chocolate, and there is Belgium Chocolate – they are two different things! ha!

You will experience Brussels through a local guide on a tour of the city’s culinary offerings. You can sample the famous Belgian chocolates and delicious cookies, and you will enjoy a Belgian waffle topped with chocolate and fruit.

These are the best Chocolate Tours in Brussels:

🏆 1-Hour Belgium Chocolate Tour (⭐️ 4.5/5): Enjoy a 1-hour workshop with the guidance of expert chocolatiers and have a go at making amazing handmade chocolates yourself.

🏆 2.5-Hour Belgium Chocolate Workshop (⭐️ 4.7/5): Learn how to become a chocolate artisan and make your own Belgian chocolates with this TOP-RATED TOUR!

🏆 Choco-Story Brussels (⭐️ 4.3/5): Learn the story of chocolate and its transformation into finished products at the Choco-Story Brussels museum, for only $11!

15. Mini-Europe (Optional)

If you want to see all of Europe but only have twenty-four hours in Brussels then be sure to visit Mini-Europe. This incredible Brussels landmark sits right across the street from Atomium in Bruparck entertainment park and features small-scale recreations of tons of European monuments and buildings.

So, in total, you can marvel at over 350 different buildings across the continent that come from upwards of 80 different countries and that are reproduced at a scale of 1:25. However, do be sure to book your tickets well in advance since this Brussels landmark is quite popular.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  You’ll also want to take metro line 6 to Heysel station since this Brussels attraction is a bit outside the city center.

15. Atomium (Optional)

Want to enjoy unparalleled views of the city during your one day in Brussels? If so then grab a ticket and climb all the way to the top of Atomium since it stands at 334 feet (102 meters) tall.

See, it’s located right across from Mini-Europe in Bruparck and is a modernist building that was initially built as the centerpiece of the 1958 Brussels Fair. In fact, the structure was never meant to endure but has since become a symbol of Brussels and of the entire country of Belgium.

After all, this is one of the most unique things to do in Brussels which is a recreation of an iron atom that has been enlarged to 165 billion times its actual size. However, before leaving, swing by the on-site museum dedicated to Expo 58 and a cool restaurant too.

Just be aware that lines can be exceptionally long. So, it’s best to grab a skip-the-line ticket prior to your visit. Additionally, because of the building’s unique shape and construction material, it can get extremely hot in the summer and guests should be careful.

💡  INSIDER TIP:  I recommend booking time entrance tickets to Atomium . With this direct entrance ticket, you can enjoy entry to Atomium anytime during operational hours. 

Best Accommodations for One Day in Brussels

The city has many different options for accommodations, from budget to luxury, it depends on your style. I have selected some great options to make your 1 day in Brussels as easy as possible. I recommend staying in the city center if you only have one day in Brussels , as you can visit all the main attractions on foot from your hotel:

GREAT VALUE: Albert Moliére

⭐️  Rating:  8.6/10 (752 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

Located in the Vorst/Forest district in Brussels, Albert Molière offers rooms with free Wi-fi. The property is about 1 km from Horta Museum and nearby Avenue Louise. All rooms have a flat-screen cable TV.

BEST-RATED: Apartment Chez Agnes

⭐️  Rating:  9.2/10 (121 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

Rated Wonderful by the guests, this apartment offers plenty of space, with amazing city views. Appartement Chez Agnes provides accommodations with a terrace and an electric teapot, around 1.3 miles from the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

LUXURY: Rocco Fort Hotel Amigo

⭐️  Rating:  9.0/10 (748 Reviews) |  Details:   Read more on booking.com now!

The 5-star Hotel Amigo offers stylish design rooms on the corner of Grand Place (central square). The property combines modern amenities, a gym, and an award-winning restaurant with a beautiful historic setting.

Essential Tips for Visit Brussels for 1 Day

Best time to visit brussels.

The winter in Brussels is from November to March, and it is really cold, but it is also the best time for ice skating and visiting the Christmas Markets. If you have the chance to go in August, you can visit the amazing summer Flower Carpet.

It is an amazing festival that takes place only every 2 years, where a huge carpet made of begonias is displayed on the Grand Place. Summertime means warmer weather and larger crowds.

Popular Food Tours in Brussels

To explore the best delicious food in the town, this walking tour is a great option, and it combines the historical overview of the city. Frites or fries are very traditional and you can find them pretty much on every corner.

Chocolate in Belgium is incredible! Even for me, a person who doesn’t care about chocolate (I know, I am weird!) when I tried it in Belgium I became a chocolate snob, it is an experience like no other!

If you love chocolate, you must visit and take a chocolate tour in Brussels. And the Belgian waffle is not famous just because it is a real deal…it is phenomenal and a must-try! You can even participate in a Belgium waffle workshop. 

I also recommend joining this Belgium Beer Tour to learn about the history and variety of Belgium beers to how they are brewed.

Money in Brussels

You will need Euro in Brussels and make sure you carry some money, as well as your credit card with you, as some places will only accept one or another.

The average meal price in Brussels is EUR20 per person , including a beverage. If you are looking for a budget-friendly meal you can find frites everywhere. Tipping is not expected while you visit Brussels.

I recommend buying the Brussels Card that offers discounts and skipping the line for the main attractions. It will help you to save money, so you can spend more on Belgium Chocolate 😉

What to Wear in Brussels for a Day Trip

If you are visiting in winter or cold months, be aware that it can be cold. The coldest months in Brussels are from December to February. So bring some layers. I recommend a warm jacket , comfortable boots , and a nice coat to wear in the evenings.

If you are also visiting during the hot months, think about light clothes and comfortable shoes to walk and explore during the day.

Leave your pair of high heels at home, as you won’t need them. Don’t forget your sunblock , and sunglasses and consider a hat too.

For the evening, especially if you are planning to have dinner at one of the nice restaurants, you can think about a comfortable summer dress and sandals . Or if you are not into dresses, a pair of jeans and a nice top and a nice pair of sandals.

If you are planning to visit churches, consider bringing a pashmina to cover your shoulders.

One Day in Brussels FAQs

Is 1 day enough for brussels.

If you’re short on time then 1 day in Brussels is enough time to see all of the top attractions and get an overall feel for this amazing city. And while you won’t be able to see everything on your Brussels bucket list, it’s a very compact and super walkable city, making it easy to see a lot with just 24 hours in Brussels.

Additionally, the city is well-connected by train to places like Amsterdam, Paris, London, and Luxembourg. Therefore, you’ll have no problem spending a day in Brussels while in Europe.

How can I spend one day in Brussels? What to do in Brussels for 24 hours?

With just one day in Brussels most travelers like to:

• Visit Mini-Europe
• Climb to the top of Atomium
• Grab some waffles at Vitalgaufre
• Explore St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral
• Stroll through Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
• Grab some fries at Friterie Tabora
• See the Grand Place and check out Manneken Pis
• Grab a Belgian beer at Delirium Cafe

Can you do Brussels in half a day?

While you can enjoy a lot of Brussels landmarks in a half day, you won’t be able to see the entire city. Thankfully, though, most of the top attractions in Brussels are situated in the city center and are within walking distance of one another. Therefore, you could easily see Manneken Pis, Delirium Cafe, Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, and Grand Place in a half day in Brussels.

Is Brussels a Walkable City?

Brussels is an extremely walkable city where many of the city’s main tourist attractions are located densely packed into the city center. Therefore, it’s easy to walk to/from most of the major attractions in Brussels. The only real exceptions are Mini-Europe and Atomium.

Is Brussels a Cheap City to Visit ?

No, Brussels is not a cheap city to visit. In fact, most budget travelers should plan to spend between €90-€110 per day. And if you want to stay in a nicer hotel then budget an extra €60 per day. However, your budget will vary based on the attractions you visit, where you eat, and how many free things to do in Brussels you enjoy.

Is Brussels or Bruges Better?

The answer to this question really depends on what you are looking for from your Belgium itinerary. If you want to explore an exciting city then Brussels is an excellent choice. But, if you want to visit a quiet, charming town then consider a trip to Bruges. Although, if you have the time then you could easily visit both places since Brussels and Bruges are only about an hour away from each other by train.

What is Brussels Known for?

Brussels is known for a wide variety of things. So, you will find the headquarters for the European Parliament as well as the EU Commission here. If you want, you can even tour the Parliament buildings and learn about how the EU operates.

Afterward, head to Delirium Cafe and try the rich, Belgian Beer that Brussels is famous for before devouring a rectangular Belgian waffle that is served with one or two sweet toppings, like chocolate and whipped cream. And if you’re not sure where to try a Belgian Waffle, you can’t go wrong with Maison Dandoy.

You can also sample some of the rich Belgian chocolate that Brussels is known for, and see where the praline was invented, at Neuhaus before grabbing some more chocolate at Elisabeth near Grand Place. However, if you prefer your treats to be salty then you order some Belgian French Fries instead.

One Day in Brussels Conclusion

If you only have one day in Brussels, it is still sufficient to explore the main sites. Brussels is a very compact city that can easily be explored on foot. It is also, easily accessible on a day trip by train, from many major cities such as Paris, London, Amsterdam, and Luxembourg.

When you visit Brussels for a day, you can explore the impressive architecture, stroll around the charming streets, and visit some museums and beautiful parks. Some of the Belgian flavors you must try are the Belgian waffle and chocolate, and the Belgian beer too!

I hope you enjoy this 1-day itinerary in Brussels, and that it will help you to make the most of your day trip to Brussels. If you have any comments, or questions about any places to visit in Brussels in one day, please let me know in the comments below.

You may also enjoy reading the following guides for short itineraries in Europe:

• Top 30 Dream Destinations on the Planet!
• How to visit Innsbruck in 2-days
• Best itinerary in Salzburg in 2-days
• Hallstatt in Winter
• 10 Best Christmas Market in Austria

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Plan your Trip

You can plan your trip with this easy guide and have access to the best services I recommend and you can get discounted prices.

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12 thoughts on “amazing brussels for a day guide you’ll need in 2024”.

What a beautiful city. And I love the advice about supporting local businesses, that’s so important right now! I’m definitely down for some beer and waffles.

I visited Brussels such a long time ago, I have to go again! The waffles in Belgium are exceptional for sure!

This is such a comprehensive guide Paula! I haven’t been to Brussels yet. I’ve learned so much through your article. I would go there just for the delicious Belgium waffle! 😛

I love Brussels! I have only been for 2 days, but I am dying to go back. I will definitely save this post for when I do.

I was in Brussels several years ago but only for 2 hours 😀 which I guess doesn’t count at all. Can’t wait to go back there, as Belgium is so beautiful! Thank you for sharing this itinerary Paula!

HI Diana – I am glad you enjoyed this itinerary

Marika, I loved Brussels too. Such an easy city to explore and so much to do.

Oh Viola, the Belgium waffle is not a joke…they are serious about it…haha! I don’t care about sweets, but in Belgium, I had a hard time staying away. They are amazing!

Oh yes, right!? Belgium waffles are the best! I would go back now just to have one (or a couple)

I love that Katy – Beer, and waffles in Belgium sounds like so perfect!

Hello please i need a perfect 2weeks itinerary in Brussels. My trip schedule is approaching and yet I had no plans , this is my first time I really need some help

Hello Muhammed, I am sure if you search on the web for 2 weeks itinerary in Brussels you will find many great articles/ itineraries appropriate for what you need. Unfortunately, I only have a 1-day itinerary in Brussels to share.

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Solo Travel Story

A Complete Brussels 3 Day Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Seeing Brussels in 3 days is doable and will be an exciting experience. Here’s my Brussels itinerary for first time visitors to make the most out of your stay. I invite you to follow along and explore this wonderful city with me. Brussels is often overlooked when planning a city break. Sure, it may not have as many famous landmarks for which e.g. London or Rome are known for. Its charm comes from various experiences, which I’ll share with you in this Brussels solo travel guide.

My “Brussels in 3 days” guide for first time visitors includes a detailed day-to-day itinerary filled with activities for solo travellers. I’ll also tell you which activities I feel you could skip and share further insights into navigating around Belgium.

Table of Contents

What is Brussels known for?

Our perception of Brussels may vary culturally, but to me, Brussels is known for:

• Atomium & Manneken Pis
• The capital of the EU
• Flower carpet in August

Not much. How about you? What’s the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Brussels?

Brussels is a lifestyle city, and you need to explore the areas that pique your interest the most. To me, this means coffee culture, architecture, and history. Brussels delivers on that front and can keep you busy for many days. Costs and prices listed in this Brussels 3 Day Itinerary are correct as of June 2023.

Brussels Itinerary Day 1: City Centre Highlights

You can’t come to Brussels without seeing the city centre. Don’t be shocked by the slightly neglected and dirty corners of the central area, just look ahead, and admire the historic houses. Start at the UNESCO-certified Grote Markt (Grand Place) . I have yet to meet a visitor who wasn’t deeply impressed by the sheer grandeur of this square. No matter how often you come here, the Grand Place will excite you again and again.

Find out more about its history and the surrounding buildings at the City Museum , which is also in the square. The top floor is dedicated to the UNESCO site, its certification process, and the ongoing preservation efforts. The museum also showcases the original Manneken Pis . The statue from the 15th century was often vandalised, decapitated, and kidnapped, hence why it was in the best interest to keep this beloved citizen in a safer environment.

Good to Know : the City Museum, as well as Sewer, Manneken Pis wardrobe and Fashion Museum have a free admission on every first Sunday of the month.

Next on your list for your Brussels itinerary should be the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert . Check out the chocolate shops and experience the high-end atmosphere of this grand shopping arcade. At 210 metres long and 8 metres wide there’s enough space for flanering. Annually, six million visitors enjoy this exquisite passage, built and designed by Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar.

Regarded as Cluysenaar’s masterpiece, the arcade opened in June 1847, shortly after Belgium gained independence. It is Europe’s oldest shopping arcade. The building with exquisite architecture was modelled after the Parisian passageways, which impressed other major European cities, such as Leipzig and Milan. Cluysenaar’s gallery would consist of two parts to connect the districts La Monnaie with La Grand-Place. Today, only two more arcades out of the original six, are preserved in Brussels: the Galerie Bortier (1848, also designed by Cluysenaar) and the Passage du Nord (1881).

If you’re in the area, stop by the beautiful Tropismes bookstore, which is just as old and glamorous as the arcade. The exquisite interior with a high, decorated ceiling and mirrors houses over 80,000 books – mostly French literature with a focus on psychology, philosophy, sociology, and Brussels urban development. The bookstore is not crowded, and you don’t have to pay an entrance fee.

Did You Know : You’ll find a Waterstones bookstore with English publications on Boulevard Adolphe Max, near the Passage du Nord. If you’re after German publications, there is a small selection at Filigranes bookstore (EU Quarter).

6 Reasons to Visit Halles Saint-Géry (1882)

• Covent Garden style
• Cradle of Brussel’s origin
• Free (and interesting) exhibitions
• Cultural Heritage Information desk (with substantial info material on Brussels)
• Relaxed dinning & drinking atmosphere
• Public piano

Brussels 3 Day Itinerary: Don’t Miss Out On

De Brouckere Square with the historic Metropole Hotel. This 5-star luxury complex is currently under construction, but you can sneak a peek inside through the window. The luxurious interior of this early Art Nouveau building rivals Budapest’s splendour.

Enjoy the views at the museum hill (Mont des Arts) and watch the sunset from here.

Good To Know : there are three tourist information centres in Brussels Central. 1. Visit Flanders on Rue du Marche Aux Herbes – they sell day tours to the Flanders region. 2. Visit Brussels at the Town Hall, Grand Place – mixed, some good information, but their focus is on selling tours. 3. Cultural Heritage Information at Halles Saint-Géry – they have more informative material, e.g. specific neighbourhood brochures and Brussel-specific books. I absolutely love their free “a la cart” brochures on each neighbourhood. The brochures are packed with local information, walking routes, history and food recommendations. In total there are 23 to collect. Some of them are online, but not all of them, e.g. Bruxelles A la Carte Central (in French & Dutch only).

Brussels Itinerary Day 2: Art Nouveau & Local Neighbourhoods

Brussels is regarded as the “cradle of Art Nouveau”. The city was a playground for several architects and has over 1000 well-preserved buildings, including villas, hotels and cafes. The style particularly distinguishes itself by capturing the delicacy and beauty of plants and nature. The dragonfly and its fine wings often inspired Brussels architects. The style is so exquisite and characterised by none other than Victor Horta, who catapulted the city to the status of “capital of Art Nouveau”. To commemorate his work, the city currently celebrates his 100th anniversary with various openings, events and exhibitions.

Did You Know ? Some buildings are called “maison” and some “hotel”. Maisons are residential buildings, often as part of a row. Hotels are grand townhouses and, in the past, free-standing with a garden in the back.

You can take part in the celebrations with the Brussel Art Nouveau pass , which is available in two versions. Valid for 9 months, it allows you to visit some of the most exclusive maisons, usually closed to the public, as well as museums and special exhibitions. Cultural events and other guided tours of unique Art Nouveau buildings also take place throughout the year. Of course, opportunities to visit these extraordinary places are rare and require quick initiative on your end and prior booking.

Did You Know: Palais Stoclet is currently in the news. The Palais designed by Josef Hoffmann and decorated lavishly by Gustav Klimt is regarded a heritage gem of immense cultural significance. The city has been fighting for years to demand the access of the building to the public. You can explore the interior of Palais Stoclet in the immersive exhibition “ Restitution ” at the Art & History Museum (until mid-April 2024).

You can embark on a self-guided art nouveau walk yourself at any time. The neighbourhoods of Saint Gilles, Ixelles and Etterbeek in the south of Brussels, as well as Schaerbeek in the north, are the hotspots to see the buildings, their delicate facades and sgraffito decorations. Pin some of the most popular ones in your Google Maps and start exploring. There are around 1000 art nouveau buildings in town so you will eventually stumble upon some gems. You can also pick up a copy of “Brussels Art Nouveau – Walks in the City” by Cecile Dubois at the Horta Museum (25€) or The Art Nouveau Brussels guide (5€) from the Tourist Information.

Saint Gilles/Ixelles area

• Hotel Hannon
• Horta Museum
• Rue Africane 92
• Maison Rosenbaum
• Maison A Ciamberlani
• Hotel Tassle
• Hotel Solvay
• Rue du Lac 6 & Rue Belle Vue
• Hotel Max Hallet
• Hotel de Brouckere

• Library Solvay
• Maison Couchie
• Maison Saint-Cyr
• Hotel van Eetvelde
• Gutenberg Square 5, 19

Brussel Central

• Café Falstaff
• Café Le Ciro
• Horta Brasserie & Comic Strip museum
• Tropismes bookstore
• Golden Palace Bourse (Privat-Livemont)
• Waffle Factory (Rue du Lombard)
• Parthe cinema

TOP TIP : some of these exquisite buildings are in private hands and generally not open to the public. There are, however, numerous opportunities throughout the year were visits are possible, e.g. Maison Saint-Cyr hosts small intimate events, the Day of the Memorial in September as well as Banad Festival in March.

Whilst you are in the southern area of Brussels, check out The View Ferris Wheel at Place Poelaert. Enjoy the ride, and the views and fall deeply in love with Brussels. Costs 10€.

Brussels Itinerary Day 3: Brussels North or East

I’ve come up with two options for your third day in Brussels. Explore the old Expo area in the North or head east to spend your day in the EU Quarter.

North Brussels: Expo Site

After brunch, take the tram to Heysel. Heysel station is just a short 5-minute walk from the former Expo site. You can visit Miniature Europe, the Atomium or the Design Museum. The site is extensive parkland and some of the old Expo Palaises can be seen from the outside.

Entrance to the Design Museum is included in the Atomium ticket. This 102-metre-tall landmark is synonymous with Brussels. Its 9 spheres, each 18 metres in diameter, are home to an exhibition about the Expo 1958. The space serves as an events location, museum and art centre. I really enjoyed my visit and learnt about Expo 58 as well as the construction of the Atomium. It is an interesting creation and like most Expo sites, this one has been badly neglected. It has a touch of an abandoned place, yet the city maintains a few conferences and shopping centres here to keep the area “alive”. The spheres are connected through tunnels which engage visitors with a laser show. In total, you can spend a good 90 minutes here.

Atomium, ticket prices start at 8€.

If you have energy left, walk back into central. The 5km walk will roughly take an hour, depending on how often you may want to stop for coffee or admire some architecture along the way. It’s also a different vibe in the summer in comparison to the winter. On the way back via Laeken ( Laeken A La Carte ), I ended up at the newly developed area of Tour and Taxis . This is a heavily gentrified area with brand new apartment blocks, a Museum of Illusions (WOM), a beach bar and the trendy Gare Maritime food market hall , which can also be used as an events space. Even though the sightseeing bus passes by I doubt many tourists will make the effort to come here, as it is still a bit outside of the touristic centre. This is for you if you value local vibes.

East Brussels: EU Quarter

After brunch, walk through the Parc de Bruxelles and follow Rue de la Loi until you’ve reached the  EU Quarter , home to the EU Commission and EU Parliament. 

Some parts of the EU Quarter are open to the public but need booking in advance (even though their official tourist brochure says otherwise). All experiences are free to visit.

House of European History  – this new exhibition extends over six floors. You must first collect your multimedia guide on the top floor and then begin your exploration from the first floor. From the myth of Europa and Zeus to WWII, the Cold War and the Soviet occupation to Brexit – the exhibition focuses heavily on Germany and France. It often feels as if other parts of Europe, such as the Baltics, Finland or the Danube region, have been forgotten. Depending on your interest, this could take up to 90 minutes.

Parlamentarium  – interactive exhibition on the history of the EU and its values, current developments and member states. This is a very flashy exhibition with interactive elements and many information panels. It is mainly aimed at schools and will therefore be full of study visitors. For me, the experience wasn’t really informative, and the excessive use of multimedia including IG filters and sending inspirational messages celebrating the EU spirit felt cringe-worthy and forced. Again, depending on your attention level and tolerance for multimedia exhibitions, this can take up to 90 minutes.

The Hemicycle  – horseshoe-shaped debating chamber for EU member states including seats for delegates and translation chambers above the seating area. Register your visit to the Hemicycle in Brussels in advance and go on a self-guided tour. I was lucky during my visit and a German course was on tour, so I didn’t need the audio guide. The tour guide explained a few things about the translation profession in the EU. Up to five translators, each with five languages, can sit in one chamber. Most languages ​​are covered within one team, if there is no speaker, e.g. Estonian, the translation team can “dial in” to another translation team, e.g. English and translate from their reporting. Most translators in the EU work freelance/consultancy but can earn up to 10k per month. Rare languages ​​such as Finnish, Estonian, Lithuanian or Greek are preferred when applying. Depending on the security checks, a visit to the hemicycle can be completed relatively quickly and in 30 minutes. However, be warned. Many school classes will be visiting again.

Brussels Itinerary Bonus: Day Trip

Belgium is a small country and easy to explore by train. Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent are all just a short ride away. You can also purchase tickets at short notice/on the day as the price won’t increase. The situation is different for international travel, e.g. Lille, London or Rotterdam. These train journeys need to be booked at least a month in advance to secure the best prices. Tickets can be expensive, although Lille and Rotterdam are close to Brussels. For now, let’s focus on Belgium (I’ll add more destinations in future, e.g. Leuven, Charleroi and Liège).

The top 3 things you do when you touch down in a historic Belgian town are:

• Climb the Belfry
• Embark on a canal tour
• Eat chocolate drenched waffles

Antwerp –  Antwerp is my favourite as it reminds me very much of my Leipzig. Out of the three suggestions, it is also the liveliest. Antwerp is an affluent merchant city, which is clear as soon as you enter the iconic train station. Not only is the train station the benchmark for everything to come, but Antwerp has lots more to offer. It is known for its Diamond trade, but the young and dynamic city has many activities and interesting museums. The architecture has countless unique art nouveau buildings similar to those of Brussels. A self-guided walking tour requires some planning on your part before you set off. Antwerp offers cafés galore and marks the start of the Belgian Camino.

Ghent – Don’t be disheartened by a brisk 30-minute walk into the historic town centre from the train station. Countless 12/13th-century buildings await you and create a magical charm. The area around the post office is the centre of action with many restaurants, cafes, and shops. A must-do is to climb the Belfry and visit the city dragon. Don’t leave without trying the local speciality Cuberdon, a sweet, chewy treat. Single ones can be purchased e.g. from The Candy Corner (Kleine Vismarkt).

Bruges – I’ve been there twice now and would describe Bruges as a historical Disneyland version. It’s like travelling back in time. The UNESCO-certified centre has gorgeous houses, quaint squares, and local shops. It’s even more enchanting in the winter and Christmas season. The top thing to do in Bruges is to admire the medieval buildings and get lost in the mace of its cobbled streets.

Brussels Activities to Avoid

These are Brussels activities that disappointed me or didn’t engage me as much as I hoped. What doesn’t work for me might work for you, which is why I included them in this Brussels 3 Day Itinerary.

The EU Quarter didn’t engage me much. Part of the reason was the rude staff and their arrogant attitude towards visitors. The exhibitions heavily represented Germany and France and felt too dominant. You rarely learn anything about other parts of the union. I understand why some countries feel “forgotten” by the EU.

Brussels Itinerary: Coffee Culture, Camino & Leipzig Connection

Coffee Culture in Brussels: the coffee culture in Brussels is thriving and has a long history. I picked up a booklet from the Cultural Heritage desk at Saint-Géry and will study it carefully and provide a more comprehensive follow-up post once I have settled in Brussels. Then I will be able to review more places and also provide more insights. At first glance, I can tell you that Brussels has traditional European coffeehouses in Art Nouveau style. The most popular ones are Falstaff & Café Le Ciro in the centre. Coffee-wise I don’t have any complaints so far. All drinks, as well as brunch sessions, have been good here.

Of course, Brussels is expensive and coffee costs around the solid 4€ mark. Brunch sits at around 20€

Best Cafes in Brussels : Franks, Lloyds, Hinterland, Leopolds’, Café Capitale, Ana Attento, To Meli OK : Living Room, My Little Room, Café du Sablon, Forcado Pastelaria Avoid : POZ, POPs, Kafei Consider : Jackie, The Bank, Kaffabar

READ MORE : Brunch in Brussels Guide: the Best and Worst Cafés

Camino: There are 48 brass scallops in central Brussels to mark the route to Santiago. I stumbled upon my first scallop trail marker on the Grand Place (Godiva store corner Rue de la Colline). A follow-up investigation at the Tourist Information (town hall) confirmed that there is an active pilgrim community in Belgium. They have kindly printed some information about the Camino in Brussels  (in French and Dutch only).

Top Tip : Bring your Credential as it will allow you free entry to the cathedrals in Belgium. Plus, people will be happy to give you a stamp.

The route starts at Place Madou and then runs through the centre of Brussels. After Brussels, it is still 2,200 km to Santiago! Pilgrims in Belgium came mainly from the north (Antwerp) and entered the city via Leuvensepoort (Madouplein). The focus of the pilgrims was to reach the Church of St. Michael and Gudula, as they also venerated other saints. Like the urban development in Santiago, the pilgrims also shaped Brussels’ city structure. There were several fountains and smaller marketplaces with halles, such as Halles Saint-Géry, to provide food and shelter for the pilgrims. Some historic hostels date back to the 14th century (Saint-Jacques d’Overmolen in the area south of Manneken Pis) and now only survive as small ruins or memorial plaques. Whilst you’re in the area, have a look at the Church of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours.

Leipzig Connection : Leipzig was mentioned at the free exhibition on the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert during June. The shopping arcade is part of a wider network of preservation for European passages, which the Mädler Passage in Leipzig is a member of.

What else is there to know about Brussels?

• Supermarkets : You’ll get an awkward amount of uneven change in supermarkets. So you’ll end up with lots of 1p and 2p coins in your wallet. Cashiers get annoyed and refuse to take these when you want to pay on the dot.
• Prices and costs vary tremendously e.g. can of ice cold coke, Brussels Central: 2.40€, Brussels Saint Gilles: 1.10€, Antwerp Central: 80p
• You often have to shop around to get the best deals. Local supermarkets, e.g. Carrefour is very expensive. Example: Febreze costs 6€ in Carrefour, but only 2.50€ at Action. Aldi/Lidl are sparse and not in every neighbourhood.
• Public Transport : Be careful when you travel on the metro. Fare evaders are common and will squeeze through the turnstile with you. Some of them can be aggressive and even push you.
• The old trams are very narrow, so be careful when entering and embarking. It is not always clear, how to open doors in the old trams. From the outside there is a green vertical strip which you have to press. It’s odd AF.
• Public WiFi : Brussels and WiFi are incompatible. All WiFi networks require a password and log in details. Usually even if you do register or have WiFi details it is still a lucky game if you can actually get on the network. In most cases you won’t. I have not been able to connect to the public City WiFi as I never receive a text code to verify. I once received the code after requesting it 5 days ago. Obvs my session was long expired by then.
• Train Travel : is moderately priced in Belgium e.g. Antwerp tickets depend on the time of travel. Weekday travel ranges between 10-16€ return, Ghent 10€ return.
• It gets costly internationally, e.g. Lille or Rotterdam even though these cities are close by and only 100km away. Tickets start at 80€ return. You can save 30% off the ticket price if you book a week in advance.
• General Things to Know about Brussels : Always look up. The real Brussels happens from the first floor upwards!
• The city tax in Brussels is 4.20€ per day but gets scrapped if you stay longer than 91 nights. This might be good to know for digital nomads and long-term travellers as the city tax would start all over again if you choose to stay at different properties during your stay.
• Language Situation : French and Flemish (Dutch variant) are the official languages in Brussels. No worries, most Brussellers speak English and will react positively if you ask them nicely to switch languages. All Belgians have been very helpful and friendly. Be aware though, this is international English, so speakers will often have strong accents, make many mental breaks (erm, you know) or may use the wrong diction.
• Belgian Chocolate Souvenirs : best to buy these in town and directly from your chosen Chocolatier. The deals at the airport aren’t as good, plus there is a completely different collection available. Some chocolatiers only have small sections available at the airport instead of their own shop.

Making of “Brussels 3 Day Itinerary”

Here are some insights into my work and research when I compiled this post:

• Spent time in Brussels and researched extensively on site
• Visited exhibitions, maisons and gathered information
• Researched, assessed and processed material
• Visited Tourist Information to compile material for my post
• Bought additional material at my own expense, such as books on coffee culture, art nouveau in Brussels and pass
• Went on day trips at my own expense to provide travel options & recommendations

FAQs about Brussels 3 Day Itinerary

I understand this is quite a lengthy post and you may have some quick questions about my Brussels 3 Day Itinerary. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist.

How many days in Brussels?

This is an itinerary designed for 3 days in Brussels, which I feel is a good amount of time for a first visit. I have also done Brussels as a day trip from London and now moved to the city. There is still so much to explore. Again, this is heavily dependent on what piques your interest.  

Is Brussels worth visiting?

Don’t expect Brussels to be overloaded with popular attractions left right and centre. If you like architecture and lifestyle, international flair and food, Brussels is for you. I’ve compiled a list with some potential pro and con considerations.

Pros : – small, compact – lots of lifestyle offerings – well-connected to other cities – characterful neighbourhoods – character lies outside of the city centre, perfect for exploring and own adventures – Belgian Camino – Open vibe, feeling of familiarity and welcome

Cons : – expensive, very outdated accommodation – city centre and tourist areas need more upkeep, quite dirty & messy – can feel a bit “European superiour”, remember this is a multilingual city and people have certain cultural expectations e.g. approach with French – needs some preparations, otherwise you’ll be disappointed and struggle filling your time

Is Brussels solo travel friendly?

Brussels is very friendly towards solo travellers. I have no complaints or any negative experiences to share (yet). It is a safe city, however as all big cities, it has its dodgy areas and in parts, it’s not the best maintained city. Waste dumping makes the city look unattractive and some buildings need desperate upkeep. I tolerated it during my time living there, it is of course a different story if you only visit Brussels for 3 days.

Thanks so much for reading. If you’ve enjoyed my Brussels 3 Day Itinerary and would like to support my blog & research, you can do so via Buy Me a Coffee .

Till next time,

You may also enjoy reading:

• Odd Quirks Of Living In Brussels You Should Know About
• Brunch in Brussels Guide: the Best and Worst Cafés
• Complete 3 Day Copenhagen Itinerary For Your 2022 Travel Plans
• Is The Eurostar London to Brussels Train Link Worth It?
• Visiting Bruges In December Is Always A Good Idea
• Epic Tales from My Summer Baltics Tour & Finland Trip

About SoloTravelStory

Blogs about her travel adventures in the world from her London home.

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14 comments.

So much information and helpful details here Carolin. Appreciate the effort of curating this itinerary for us specially to someone like me who haven’t been to Brussels yet. I’d love to check out the Art Nouveau architecture of the city. It seems Brussels have a lot. I have always wanted to decorate our place with hints of art nouveau style and visiting the city will surely usher me some inspiration. And I think I know where the perpect place to start – the Tropismes bookshop! #flyingbaguette

Jan – https://flyingbaguette.com/

Lyn (aka Jazz)

I always love a UNESCO site, Art Nouveau, bookstores, and chocolate! Definitely would want to see Palais Stocle since I am a huge fan of Klimt. It sounds like Brussels is a place for me!

The EU area sounds very interesting, disappointed to learn about the rude staff and lack of diversity in the exhibitions. I think I would still visit but I appreciate the head’s up to keep my expectations low.

As always, I appreciate your coffee culture reports.

Lyn | http://www.ramblynjazz.com

One of my favourite things to do in Brussels was just walk around, admiring the gorgeous architecture and finding little hidden gems along the way. It’s nice that it doesn’t feel like it needs to be a go go go city. Great tip about getting out of the centre and visiting the food market hall. That’s something I would love to do and not something I thought of seeking out the first time I was there. Of course no trip to Brussels is complete without filling an empty suitcase with chocolate, I was spoiled for choice. You’re making me really want to go back to Brussels again soon and explore some more

It’s been over 20 years since we were last in Brussels and your detailed post has prompted us to think about returning. We visited some of the places you mention (the Atomium looks shinier than when we were there- maybe they gave it a polish!) but somehow we missed out on the fabulous Art Nouveau – we are huge fans of that movement. The staircase at Hotel Hannon is just sublime! We would definitely want to do the self-guided walk and it was a handy tip about the Art Nouveau Pass and the heritage days, definitely worth thinking about the timing on the trip. Good to know about additional day trips – we visited Bruges, but not Antwerp or Ghent – and they both sound delightful.

Brussels was the first foreign city I ever went to – I was 14 years old and it as much a wonderous place then as it is today. Interesting to read about the difference between a Maison and Hotel – never knew that story. For me, just wandering the streets and taking in all those old, quaint buildings is enough of a sightseeing tour in itself.. It has some gorious buildings and your pics bring out the majesty in many of those buildings.

WOW! That is such an incredibly detailed post! I have never been to Brussels but this post seems to emphasize all the important places and a few to avoid. I like the length and detail as it gives a true flavour of the city. Now I want to go there! Thanks.

Sarah's Sojourns

Great article, except it’s convinced me I need way more than 3 days to see Brussels! I definitely want to get out and do some day trips.

Last time I was there I really enjoyed just wandering around and eating lots of delicious food so missed a lot of the things you mention!

James Fahey

I am a little ignorant when it comes to Brussels but great to see it’s worth a few days in the capital of the EU. Grote Markt looks epic. I would love to see the Art Nouveau architecture having been impressed when in Riga so that would be on my itinerary for sure. I enjoy visiting small and compact cities which means getting around is easier and you don’t waste time so it’s ticking all the boxes for me! I would also enjoy going around the EU quarter to see if I can spot any notable people in power.

I confess that I never put Brussels on my list of cities to visit because I didn’t realize how interesting it would be. The architecture of the central area is beautiful. I’m fascinated by Art Nouveau, so I’m sure I’d be delighted with the city. And for book lovers, the Tropismes bookshop is spectacular. I had no idea that the Way of St. James passed through Brussels 🙂 Once again, it’s a very comprehensive article full of fabulous tips for those who want to visit the city!

Tiffany Pence

I always thought Brussels was a modern city, but happy to learn about all the Art Nouveau architecture! I was considering Brussels for its Christmas market, chocolate, and waffles, but now I know there’s more to this exciting city!

What a great guide! I used to go to Brussels for work occasionally (pre Brexit) but didn’t see half of the goodies mentioned here. I did love the art nouveau, the mussels and the fries as well as the chocolate! And once I got the hang of the underground I found it an easy city to get around. Now I need to go back and fill in all the gaps in my itinerary.

My sister in law is doing a long layover in Brussels for our trip in January (I didn’t have the time off), so I’m sending this to her so she knows what to do with a short time frame in the city. I love that you also included places to avoid – so true that not everywhere is worth it!

Brussels looks like a very beautiful place with many places to visit, really thank you for taking the time to leave every detail written in this blog and for the recommendations I must definitely put it on my next vacation, I am from Cusco Peru and also love a solo traveler, I invite you to also visit my country, we have many places to visit. 🙂

Yasser Moosa

What a delightful journey through Brussels! Your 3-day itinerary is a treasure trove of must-visit spots, blending history, culture, and those irresistible waffle stops. I can almost taste the chocolate through your vivid descriptions. Thanks for sharing your solo adventure; it’s like I strolled through the Grand Place myself! Can’t wait to read more tales from your solo travel escapades. Safe and happy travels!

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BELGIUM , DESTINATIONS , EUROPE

A perfect day in brussels: itinerary & self-guided walking tour.

Belgium’s capital is not just about beer, waffles and chocolate. But that’s not a bad start.

By spending just one day in Brussels you will be able to soak up its UNESCO-listed architecture and the vitality for which this cosmopolitan city is famous. Make every minute count with this 1-day Brussels itinerary which includes the very best things to do in the so-called capital of Europe.

To help you along your way, I’ve included a map with directions which you can use as a Brussels self-guided walking tour. Brussels is known as Brussel in Flemish; the city is known as Bruxelles in French.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

Is One Day in Brussels Enough?

One day in Brussels is enough time to hit its highlights. These are scattered across a relatively small area and are clearly signposted. This is a walkable city.

However, if you are interested in visiting the city’s museums or the Atomium, or want to explore its famous Art Nouveau architecture, I recommend spending two or three days here.

Brussels is one of the best bases from which to explore Belgium by train.

1-Day Brussels Itinerary (Map + Self-Guided Walking Tour)

Whether you are visiting Brussels on a day trip or staying overnight, this itinerary will give you the jump start that you need. Simply tweak it according to your interests and available time.

To help you on your way, I have custom-made a map of the route that this Brussels itinerary follows. It covers a distance of three miles and includes stops for you to sample the food and drink for which this city is known.

Think of this as a free Brussels self-guided walking tour . For an interactive map with walking directions, or to send to your phone, click here or on the image.

BREAKFAST AT CHARLI

Start your day in Brussels with a tasty breakfast at Charli . This excellent bakery has a few seats to linger over your brioche and coffee and is inexpensive.

Address : Rue Sainte-Catherine 34

MANNEKIN PIS

Begin your Brussels sightseeing tour with the city’s mascot but manage your expectations.

Protected by a wrought-iron fence, this is a teeny weeny statue of a pissing urchin in a sort of shrine. Many origin tales and myths swirl around this little fella, but the most popular one posits that he was cast in the 17 th Century to embody the irreverent spirit of the city.

Address: Rue de l’Etuve 31

THE GRAND PLACE

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Europe’s most magnificent squares. The Grand Place was the hub of commercial life in the emerging city from the 12 th Century and became Brussels’ civil and political centre from the 15 th Century.

But what are those magnificent buildings lining the Grand Place?

With its 96m spire rising above the Grand Place like an exclamation mark, the Hôtel de Ville dominates the square. Much of the north side of the Grand Place is occupied by the 19 th Century Maison de Roi.

The west side of the plaza is home to the city’s gable-roofed guildhouses . On the eastern side of the Grand Place, the existing guildhouses have been subsumed into one façade.

BELGIAN WAFFLES AT AUX GAUFRES DE BRUXELLES

Are you ready for the best waffle of your life? Then grab a pavement table at Aux Gaufres De Bruxelles.

I recommend the Belgian waffle with strawberries, whipped cream and chocolate.

Address: Rue Marché aux Herbes 113

What about the Bourse?

La Bourse (Brussels Stock Exchange) frequently pops up on lists of things to see in Brussels. However, it has been undergoing renovation since 2020 and was shrouded in scaffolding when I visited in 2023. There are plans for it to reopen as a museum of Belgian beer.

MONT DES ARTS

Mont des Arts links the Lower Town and Upper Town of Brussels.

Literally meaning Hill of the Arts after a planned art museum that was never built, an imposing equestrian statue of King Albert I graces its lower end. From here, a landscaped garden and stone staircase lead to a terrace in the Upper Town.

Linger here for a few minutes to take in the views.

CATHEDRAL OF ST. MICHAEL AND ST. GUDULA

Known simply as St. Gudula by locals, this magnificent Gothic cathedral is dedicated jointly to St. Michael the Archangel and St. Gudula. Begun in 1215, this place of worship was 300 years in the making.

It’s safe to say that it is more striking on the outside than on the inside. However, it is worth venturing inside to take a peek at the wonderful stained glass windows and its elaborate carved oak pulpit. This depicts the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden as the Virgin Mary and some cherubs helpfully stamp on the head of a serpent dragon.

Entrance is free.

ROYAL PALACE OF BRUSSELS

The large but uninspiring Royal Palace is the official residence of the Belgian royal family. At its core, the Palais Royal is a clumsy conversion of 18 th Century townhouses.

If you are visiting Brussels between July and September, you will be able to see inside the palace (entry is free). If you are not in town during these months, by all accounts you are not missing much.

COUNDENBERG PALACE

Concealed beneath the 18 th Century Hôtel Bellevue are the remains of the Coudenberg Palace .

Staring life as a fortified castle in the Middle Ages, it kept a careful watch over Brussels from Coudenberg Hill. Over 600 years it was transformed into one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe. 

After a devastating fire in 173, it lay forgotten underground. The charred ruins of the palace were pulled down and the ground levelled for the construction of the new royal district.

Today, the remains of the Palais du Coudenberg have been extensively excavated and can be reached from the Musée BELvue.

PLACE DU PETIT SABLON

The small but perfectly formed Place du Petit Sablon is a delightful refuge from the busy city. Formerly a horse market, it was laid out as a public garden in 1890.

Take a closer look at the wrought-iron balustrade surrounding the garden. This is embellished with 48 bronze statuettes that represent the medieval guilds.

At the rear of the park, there are ten statues, illustrating life in 16th Century Belgium through its scholars and humanists (most of these will not be familiar to most people).

CHURCH OF THE BLESSED LADY OF SABLON

Also known as the Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon or Notre Dame du Sablon, this 15 th Century church began life as a chapel for the guild of archers in 1304. However, its fortunes changed for the better in 1348 when a statue of Mary, said to possess healing powers, was brought from Antwerp. This humble chapel became a pilgrimage centre and was transformed into a proper church to accommodate its visitors.

And that statue of Mary? The Protestants chopped it up for firewood in 1565 but two carvings of a boat with passengers and its sacred cargo tell its story.

ROYAL GALLERY OF SAINT HUBERT (GALERIES ROYALES SAINT-HUBERT)

I’m not a big shopaholic but not even I would skip the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert.

Featuring magnificent glass-vaulted galleries – du Rio, de la Reine and des Princes – this has to be one of Europe’s finest indoor shopping arcades. Dating from 1847, it is certainly one of the first.

It’s a lovely place to stop for a coffee or a Belgian beer.

DINNER ON RUE DES BOUCHERS

But perhaps it’s time for something a little more substantial. If that’s the case, then you are in luck.

Rues de Bouchers, which slices the Hubert Galleries in two, is Brussels’ best-known restaurant ghetto. The touristy restaurants are a little hit-and-miss but I had a very good meal at Aux Armes de Bruxelles , which had been recommended by my hotel.

When is the Best Time to Visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is between March and May, and in September and October. Accommodation will be cheaper and there is less chance of rain.   Visit Brussels in summer and you can look forward to warmer days and nights and more festivals. But you can also expect a lot more visitors.   Although winter in Belgium can be grey and dreary, the twinkling lights and mulled wine of Brussels’ Christmas markets will lift your spirits. 

How to Get to Brussels

Brussels not only has an international airport, but it is also a terminus for Eurostar trains from London. This means that Brussels is an excellent day trip from London .

Thanks to its excellent train connections, Brussels is hard to beat as a base for a Belgium vacation.

Getting to Brussels by train

If it is your first time in Brussels, its train stations can be confusing.

Brussels Midi / Brussels Sud /  Zuidstation

This gloomy station in a gloomy part of town is the main international hub, including that for Eurostar trains. To be avoided whenever possible.

Brussels Centrale / Gare Central / Brussel Centraal

As its name suggests, this is the most central of the city’s stations. This is not a place where you would like to linger but it is convenient.

Brussels Nord / Gare du Nord / Noordstation

Although many trains will pass through here, it’s unlikely that you will use this station as a departure point.

Getting to Brussels by air

Most flights to Belgium’s capital land at Brussels International Airport, 14 km northeast of the city centre. From here, regular trains run to the city’s three main railway stations.

Budget airlines may land at Brussels-Charleroi airport, located 50 km south of the city centre. From here, there is a shuttle bus service to the city centre.

How to Get Around Brussels

If you stick with this Brussels itinerary, you shouldn’t need to use public transport. Many of its main attractions are scattered over a relatively compact area and are reachable on foot.

However, the user-friendly network of trams, buses and metro lines might be useful if you are staying out of the city centre or if you are visiting attractions further afield.

There is also the inevitable hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus service.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR HOHO BUS TICKET

Where to Stay in Brussels

Although you can visit Brussels on a day trip, I recommend booking a hotel for at least one night. This will allow you to make the most of your day and enjoy the city’s bars and restaurants in the evening when the day-trippers have departed.

Here are my recommendations:

Splurge : Hotel Le Dixseptième

I stayed at this elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the city centre. It was a remarkably peaceful refuge, considering its location, with stellar service.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A ROOM 

Mid-range : B&B Villa 36

This small 3-star guesthouse close to Brussels City Hall has attracted fabulous reviews. Breakfast is included in the room rates.

If You Have More Than One Day in Brussels

Here are a few suggestions if you are in Brussels for two days or more.

CHOCO-STORY

Belgium is a chocoholic’s dream destination and Brussels is the birthplace of this long tradition. Visit Choco-Story to learn more about the cultivation, production and marketing of chocolate.

I visited Choco-Story as part of a mission to discover the best chocolate in Bruges and loved the interactive experience, not to mention the free samples.

Address : Rue de l’Etuve 41

>>> CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKET

Or perhaps you fancy being a little more hands-on? If so, why not join a chocolate-making workshop . Find out more here .

FONDATION BREL

This small museum close to the Grand Place celebrates the life and times of the famous gravelly-voiced Belgian singer Jacques Brel.

On the recommendation of travellers I met when visiting Ghent , I rented the museum’s excellent Jacques Brel walking tour.

Address: Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés 11

VICTOR HORTA MUSEUM

Brussels is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. This museum is housed in the former residence and studio of Victor Horta, one of the movement’s leading lights. Reservations are required.

Address: Rue Américaine 27

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS MUSEUM

Belgium’s Musical Instruments Museum is partly housed in another of Brussels’ landmark Art Nouveau buildings. Over a thousand historical and modern musical instruments are displayed in four galleries, making it one of the largest collections of its kind in the world.

Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2

COMICS ART MUSEUM BRUSSELS (BELGIAN COMIC STRIP CENTER)

The Belgians love their comics and some of the finest examples of this art form are on display in the Comics Art Museum , housed in another Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.

Address: Rue des Sables 20

COMIC STRIP WALK

Brussels has street art with a theme. Since the early 90s, characters and authors of the Franco-Belgian comics have decorated walls in the city centre and Laeken district.

Download your comic strip walk map here .

OLD MASTERS MUSEUM

If your artistic tastes veer more towards the traditional, spend a few hours exploring the works of Flemish artists at the Old Masters Museum .

Address: Rue de la Régence 3

MAGRITTE MUSEUM

This was one of the places that I wanted to visit in Brussels but I ran out of time. It is located in Magritte’s former home and is reportedly a Surrealist extravaganza.

Address : Pl. Royale 1

THE ATOMIUM

This famous Brussels landmark, located in the northern part of the city, represents a molecule blown up 165 million times. The Atomium was built for the World Fair in 1958 and although it never became the symbol of the city as intended, it is reportedly an enjoyable excursion.

Address: Pl. de l’Atomium 1

MINI-EUROPE

Located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe displays reproductions of monuments from around 80 European cities.

Address: Av. du Football 1

Is Brussels Safe for Solo Travellers?

The priority for female solo travellers is  staying safe when travelling alone . Brussels is a relatively small city and its tourist area felt relaxed with locals and visitors enjoying its attractions, bars and restaurants.

There is a but though. As in many cities, petty crime, including pickpocketing, is not unusual and I found Brussels Centrale station to be unpleasant after dark.

In recent years, there has also been the threat of terrorist attacks.

As ever, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Although Brussels has a low crime rate, remain vigilant. Keep your belongings close to you and use your hotel safe to store valuables.

Ready to spend a day in Brussels?

Well, that’s a wrap! I hope that you have a wonderful day in Bruxelles.

If you have found this itinerary helpful and are planning further travel in Belgium, take a peek at my other guides (I suggest starting with this 1-week Belgium itinerary ).

Gorgeous Ghent is another terrific base for exploring the country by train. Belgium is synonymous with chocolate and Bruges is a honeypot for chocoholics .

Consider some of its lesser-touristed gems, such as Mechelen . I love Leuven , which is home to the oldest botanical garden in Belgium . Spend a day in Hasselt to sip gin at the Jenniver Museum or chase cherry blossom in Japanse Tuin Hasselt .

Happy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

How to Spend Epic Two Days in Brussels You Won’t Forget

Chocolate shops, beer, astonishing architecture, museums, parks, and plenty of other fun things to do – what more does a traveler need when going on a city break in one of the most beautiful places in Belgium ? And though two days in Brussels don’t sound like a lot of time, fear not.

It is an extremely walkable city, so it is possible to achieve a lot, even in only 48 hours, so let’s dive into this itinerary that will help you make the most of your time.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

To learn more about the city, consider taking one or two of these free walking tours of Brussels (it seems like one type of tour, but note that there’s a difference between the morning and afternoon tours).

Table of Contents

2 Days in Brussels, Belgium – Where to Stay

Brussels is a compact city, so most of the accommodation is within easy reach of the main attractions and the city center.

B&B Villa 36 : Housed in a 19th-century building, this bed & breakfast offers a central location, cozy double rooms, a shared terrace, and a highly-rated continental breakfast. Read reviews and book it here.

The Dominican :  This 4-star boutique hotel offers a fantastic location, an excellent breakfast, an on-site restaurant and bar, and of course – clean and comfortable deluxe/executive rooms and suites.  Browse the latest prices here.

Brussels Card – Worth It or Not?

The user-friendly 48-hour Brussels Card offers free access to almost all the museums in the city.

It also offers discounted tourist attractions, restaurants, chocolate shops (including one shop of Godiva – aka one of the best Belgian chocolate brands ), walking tours, and much more.

BUT should you get it? If you’re not changing anything on this itinerary, I don’t think you need to buy it.

However, if you take some of the suggestions I’ve added (in the ‘other things to do’ section of this post) and visit some more museums, you should definitely get a Brussels Card that would save you money and let you visit them for free.

You can purchase your Brussels Card in advance online here (either print the voucher or store it on your phone until you exchange it for the card itself at one of the offices in the city).

If you buy an add-on transport card (STIB), you can also travel for free for 48 hours on any mode of public transport. Get your upgraded Brussels Card here.

Two Days in Brussels – Day One

Stop 1: breakfast.

What would a European city break be without some relaxing morning time at a local cafe?

Be the first to reach the cozy  JAT Cafe  in the Royal Quarter, for a simple yet tasty breakfast of coffee, juice, eggs, bagels, and more.

Address:  Rue de Namur, 28.

Opening hours:  Monday – Friday 8:30 AM – 4 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM.

Stop 2: Royal Palace

One of the best things to do in Brussels is to stroll down to the well-manicured Parc de Bruxelles.

Admire the statues and enjoy sweeping views of the Royal Palace and the Palace of the Nation (which is also close to the 11th-century Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula).

The Royal Palace lies just across the street, and if you’re visiting in summer, you’ll be happy to know that it opens its doors to the public from July 21st to August 25th each year (excluding Mondays).

On these dates from 10:30 AM till 3:45 PM (last entry, closure at 5 PM), you can visit the palace for free.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also the administrative office of the king, will remain etched in your mind for long. Enjoy the decor of the Empire Room and other classically decorated chambers in the palace.

Stop 3: Old England Building (Musical Instruments Museum) and Lunch

Exit the palace and head to the beautiful Old England Building (Rue Montagne de la Cour, 2) to see the most extensive collection of musical instruments in the world.

Take the elevator to the tenth floor and enjoy a fabulous all-you-can-eat buffet lunch at the rooftop cafe (currently closed for renovation) .

Price:  €10 (Free with the Brussels Card , which will also give you one free coffee with your lunch).

Opening hours:  Tuesday – Friday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Stop 4: Grand Place

There are many reasons to visit Belgium , and one of them is the beautiful architecture.

Your next stop is one of the most stunning squares in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Grand Place (on your way, be sure to pass through the Mont des Arts Garden).

The square is surrounded by architecturally mesmerizing buildings, including the city’s Town Hall and the Brussels City Museum.

The symbol of the civilized city of Brussels is the 17th-century bronze statue of a boy –  Manneken Pis , which you will come across in most souvenir shops.

The original is located not very far from the Grand Place (on the corner of Rue de l’Étuve and Rue du Chêne) and depicts a chirpy little fellow peeing away merrily.

It has quite a few European legends connected to it, including a story of a witch who turned him into a statue.

Super fun fact:  The statue is dressed on fixed dates, and his wardrobe actually contains more than 900 pieces, some of which you can see in this unique museum .

Nice to know: Brussels is known as one of the best winter city breaks in Europe , and the Grand Place is one of the main locations of the city’s Winter Wonders events, so expect Christmas stalls and a lot of twinkling lights and decorations.

Stop 5: Exploring the City Center

Once you are done gawking at the pissing statue, you will notice the city center has some walls displaying comic strips.

The sides of the buildings are adorned with over 60 paintings of famous comic characters like Tin Tin, Asterix & Obelix, and more ( check them all out here ). If you’re visiting Brussels with kids , they’ll surely love these colorful murals.

To learn more about them, you can even take a themed comic book route tour .

Going street art hunting while wandering the city center’s streets is an absolute must when exploring Brussels in two days.

Stop 6: Shopping

Next, you can walk across to  Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert  (Galerie du Roi, 5), the first shopping arcade in Europe, dating back to 1847. This stunning gallery is sure to take up the rest of the day.

Stop 7: Dinner

To end your epic day one in style, savor a delicious Belgian dinner at  Le Marmiton  (Rue des Bouchers, 43), adjacent to the shopping mall. Be sure to make a reservation online .

Two Days in Brussels – Day Two

Depending on where you’ve chosen to stay, here are a few fantastic places to have your morning coffee:

• OR Coffee (can’t believe someone named their cafe after me): Rue Auguste Orts, 9.
• Kaffabar: Place Rouppe, 1.
• My Little Cup: Rue de la Croix de Fer, 53.

Stop 2: Parc de Laeken

After a tiring first day, it’s time to have a relaxing outing and unwind on day two. You need to first take the Metro/tram to Laeken, a suburb of Brussels, to reach the iconic Parc de Laeken.

Tram number 3 goes from the city center to De Wand station, which is located near the park.

Established more than a hundred years ago, Parc de Laeken is a huge open green area with a large number of attractions such as the Japanese Pavilion, the Château de Laeken, and the Royal Greenhouses (only open in spring and must be booked in advance).

Stop 3: Lunch

There aren’t many restaurants in the area (unless you don’t mind some extra walking), so I suggest bringing some yummy treats with you and having a little picnic.

Alternatively, check out the panoramic restaurant of the Atomium , which is our next stop.

Stop 4: The Atomium

The grandest of the crowd pullers in Brussels is undoubtedly the Atomium, so restrict most of your day two for it.

Ironically, it was supposed to be dismantled after its initial use, just like the Eiffel tower of Paris, but with its increasing popularity over time, it was decided to let it stand.

The Atomium provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and its surroundings. Originally constructed in 1958 for the world expo, the building currently houses a museum and art center and is one of the most visited attractions in Europe.

Current restrictions: Read here .

Price:  €16. Get your ticket in advance online (you must pick a timeslot for your visit). You can also buy it at the ticket office, including a combo ticket to visit the Atomium + Mini Europe.

Opening Hours:  Thursday – Monday 10 AM – 6 PM.

Stop 5: Mini Europe

Located just below the Atomium, Mini Europe should be your next stop. It is the only park that showcases the entire continent in just a couple of hours.

Hear the chimes of Big Ben as you pass through London and soak in the charm of Venice, complete with mandolins and gondolas.

There are over 350 models of excellent craftsmanship that depict animated important events with sound and visuals, like the fall of the Berlin Wall, the eruption of Mt Vesuvius, and many more that you can’t find anywhere else.

Price:  €17 (€2.5 off with the Brussels Card ). You can also get your ticket in advance online (you must pick a timeslot for your visit) or buy it at the ticket office, including a combo ticket to visit the Atomium + Mini Europe.

Opening Hours:  Consult them here .

Stop 6: Dinner

As I’ve mentioned, this area is not packed with restaurants like the city center, so for great food, walk a few minutes from Mini Europe and get to La Divine Moustache (Romeinsesteenweg, 750).

Were you inspired by this itinerary for a weekend trip to Brussels? Check out:

• 2 days in Madrid
• 4 days in Madrid
• 3 days in Turin
• 4 days in Vienna
• 2 days in Lisbon
• 4 days in Budapest
• 2 days in Berlin
• 2 days in Mostar
• 4 days in Milan
• Long weekend getaways in Spain

Other Fun Things to Add to Your 2-Day Brussels Itinerary

If you want to mix things up and change this itinerary a bit, check out these suggestions for other things to do in Brussels in 2 days.

You can also visit the city as a part of a Belgium road trip or take a day trip and spend a day in Bruges .

Take a Walking Tour or Two

I didn’t always like walking tours, because I prefer exploring a city on my own.

BUT over the last couple of years, I’ve tried quite a few unique tours and had great experiences, so now, I always try to find some interesting themed tours.

Apart from a classic free walking tour of Brussels , here are a few  highly-rated  unique ones:

Belgian beer tasting tour:  We all know that Belgian beers are some of the best in the world, so this is a must-have experience.

Check out this 2.5-hour tour that includes 4 tastings , this 3-hour tour that includes 6 tastings , or this 4-hour tour that includes 8 tastings and some of the city’s landmarks.

Belgian chocolate-themed tours:  You’re in Belgium, so you know you need to have some kind of experience that involves chocolate in Brussels .

Check out this chocolate tasting tour , this chocolate-making workshop, or this 4-hour combo tour of chocolate tastings + workshop !

Food tours: What better way to get to know a city than to devour everything it has to offer? Check out this 3.5-hour food tour which you won’t leave hungry!

Visit a Few Other Museums

This city is home to some amazing museums, so here are a few interesting suggestions you can add to your 2-day Brussels itinerary  (all can be visited for free with the Brussels Card ) :

– Comics Art Museum and MOOF Museum:  Two super fun and quirky museums dedicated to comic artists and characters.

– Choco-Story:  Who doesn’t love a good old chocolate museum? You can buy your ticket online , at the museum itself, or get a Brussels Card and visit for free.

– Jewish Museum of Belgium.

– Magritte Museum:  Holds the famous Belgian artist’s largest collection in the world!

– The Beer Museum of the Belgian Brewers:  Showcasing the history of Belgian beer.

– Toy Museum:  An impressive collection of about 25,000 toys, when the oldest one dates back to 1830 (not gonna lie – there’s something a bit creepy about old toys).

– Museum of Natural Sciences (one of the museums in Europe that also offer virtual tours ).

– Halle Gate:  A medieval fairytale-like building that houses a history museum and offers panoramic views over Brussels.

Visit a Few Other Parks and Gardens

From the  Botanical Garden of Brussels  to  Stuyvenberg Park  to  Cinquantenaire Park , there’s no shortage of green areas in this beautiful city.

Wander Around the City’s Markets

I just love wandering around local markets when I’m traveling. Even if I’m not buying anything, I like seeing the local produce and doing some people watching (not in a creepy way, obviously).

Here are a few markets to check out in Brussels:

– Market of Midi (Boulevard du Midi):  Only operating on Sundays from 7 AM till 1 PM, it is the 3rd largest market in Europe!

– Jeu de Balle Square’s Flea Market:  Open every day from 7 AM to 2 PM.

– Grand Sablon Antique Market:  Operating on weekends only.

There are also plenty of amazing day trips from Brussels (including some beautiful castles near the city ), but if you only have 48 hours, I’d focus on the city itself.

Where to Eat in Brussels

Quality dining is a specialty in Brussels. Having said that, it is important to know where the prices are fair and preferred by locals to steer clear of tourist traps.

Rather than looking for a particular dish, choose an area that has a good atmosphere and offers different cuisines.

For the best Belgian, French, or Italian food, the Place du Chatelain area along Rue du Page has a mix of some lively restaurants. Another great place to dine out is on the road adjacent to the church of St Boniface.

Here you will find a line of diners waiting for their turn, especially during weekends from evening onwards. Small restaurants serving food and beverages can also be found around Palace Stephaine.

Mussels and fries are the firm Belgian favorites and must be tried, along with a local glass of beer. Belgium produces over 400 different varieties, suitable for every palate, even for those who don’t relish the drink.

To give you an idea of costs, a meal in a standard restaurant will cost you around €16 whereas a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is around €60. Don’t forget the local brews averaging €4.

Getting From the Airport to the City Center

Compared to other European airports, the Zaventem International Airport is just 12 km from the city and brings you to the city center in less than thirty minutes.

Trains leave the airport every ten minutes from 5 AM to 12 AM and take just 18 minutes to get to Brussels Central Station. Keep time reserved for the trip from the station to your hotel. Tickets can be  purchased online  or at the platform itself for €18.20. 

Private taxis are also available for around €45, but be sure to look only for licensed taxis, which can be identified by the yellow-blue license marks.

Your cheapest option is taking the bus, either on route 272 or 471, which brings you to the city center in around thirty minutes, depending on the traffic density, and costs around €3.

Pin this 48 hours in Brussels travel guide for later!

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “How to Spend Epic Two Days in Brussels You Won’t Forget”

This is a great guide! I have never been to Belgium so visiting is super high on my list and I love packing as much as I can into a couple days in a new city. Thanks for the tips and hopefully I will be able to use them when we are able to travel again 🙂

I’m so happy you find it helpful! Crossing my fingers that traveling will be normal soon 🙂

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

13 classic experiences to have in Brussels

Sep 1, 2021 • 6 min read

Spending time at a quintessential Brussels cafe is a great way to spend an afternoon © Alena Veasey/Shutterstock

Brussels is a city of nuance. Its beauty lies in its details: wrought iron flourishes on seemingly plain houses, locals’ wry jokes paired with warm welcomes, provocative murals that make you do a double take. If you only have a few days, here are some of the top things to do in Brussels to experience the little delights of Belgium’s underrated capital.

Grand Place

Though Brussels’ central square, the Grand Place, is its most touristy spot, you can’t deny that it’s, well, grand. If you only have one day in Brussels, head there. To dig deeper, rather than treating it as a big gilded selfie backdrop, take a moment to sit and take in the intricate details of each building: a swan rearing where Marx wrote his Communist Manifesto, the boatmen guild’s gable shaped like a ship’s stern, a bas relief of Romulus and Remus with their wolf mother.  

Find the peeing trio

Manneken Pis , the “little pissing man,” is a perfect example of Belgians’ cheeky humor. Most tourists stop at the bronze boy with the bottomless bladder, but he actually has two urinary comrades. Since 1987, Jeanneke Pis has been squatting behind a red fence near Rue de Bouchers. Manneken’s best friend was added in 1998: a statue of a dog, Zinneke , casually answering nature’s call on a Rue des Chartreux bollard.

Eat waffles like a Belgian

Countless tourist shops offer “authentic” Belgian waffles loaded with all kinds of sugary additions. Sprinkles, nuts and whipped cream have their time and place, but Belgians usually skip the shops and mountains of tops. Freshly made and sticky sweet Liege waffles (Luikse in Flemish) are best enjoyed sans toppings. Waffle vans serving piping hot waffles wrapped in paper can be found all over Brussels –  city parks and weekend markets are good places to look.

Drink a beer in a brown cafe

Cramped seating, smoke-darkened wooden panels, and an extensive (but tasteful) beer list are defining features of classic Belgian “brown cafes.” Tables packed with friends laughing into the early hours are proof: having a beer in a brown cafe is one of the best things to do in Brussels at night.

No matter where you stay , there’s sure to be at least one brown cafe nearby, but centrally located favorites include Moeder Lambic in Ixelles, Poechenellekelder by the Manneken Pis, and Nüetnigenough near the Grand Place. Delirium Café  merits an honorable mention: though it’s objectively touristy and often sloppy, it does have the world’s biggest beer menu.

Visit the home of an Art Nouveau master

Curling steel vines and floral flourishes were signatures of illustrious architect Victor Horta. Considered to be one of the fathers of the 19th century Art Nouveau movement, his work influenced countless elegantly understated façades found throughout Brussels today. To honor his work, his family home in Ixelles’ Chatelain neighborhood is now open to the public as a museum. It’s not hard to find Art Nouveau’s influences in Brussels, but the Musée Horta is one of the few places where travelers can see the inner workings of Horta’s artistry.

Devour a cone of frites

Belgians love their perfectly crispy fries so much that they want the vendors’ stands placed  on UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage list! Snacking on fries is a must do while in Brussels. Portions come in many shapes with many sauces—mostly variants of mayonnaise—but the classic method is to eat the fries straight from a paper cone. Maison Antoine in Place Jourdan is a centrally located cult favorite, but prepare to wait in line!

Take a historic tram to Tervuren’s Africa Museum

Belgium’s colonial history is dark: “crimes against humanity” was a phrase used to describe King Leopold II’s genocide in Congo. After decades of denial, Belgium is slowly coming to terms with its crimes. Tervuren’s palatial Africa Museum is a must-visit to see the changes in progress. Tervuren is connected to Brussels by a century-old wooden tram line that passes towering trees and stately mansions on Avenue de Tervuren.

Sample gueuze beer at Cantillon Brewery

Subtly sour and extra effervescent? Must be a gueuze beer! The curious lambic-style beer hails from the Senne Valley around Brussels. Some say the doubly fermented brew is a craft substitute for champagne, others find the flavor unsettling. The only way to determine that on your own is to do a tasting at the family-run Cantillon Brewery and museum in the west of Brussels.

Savor the world’s best chocolate

Belgians will never agree on which chocolatier is best. What they can agree on is that some of the finest chocolate is in Brussels. Connoisseurs should head to the Sablon neighborhood: there you’ll find names like Wittamer, a master of the “older” generation, alongside newer chocolatiers, like Marcolini, who are more experimental with their creations. High quality comes at a high price, so if you’re traveling Brussels on a budget , the Neuhaus factory is a more budget-friendly alternative.

Walk the comic book route

Comics are a huge deal in the “comic book capital” of the world. Literally huge: Brussels is decorated with more than 60 multistory murals honoring famous comic strips! One of the best things to do in Brussels is follow the comic book route across the city, seeking out characters like Tintin and The Smurfs, plus local Belgian favorites like Suske and Wiske and Rode Ridder.

Treat your ears at the Musical Instruments Museum

Musical instruments might seem a strange choice for nonmusicians, but the interactive MIM is one of the best things to do in Brussels with kids. They can play for hours, exploring the sounds of squiggly horns and plucky pipe organs neither children nor adults have ever heard of. Once done, MIM has a rooftop restaurant that offers spectacular views of central Brussels through arched Art Nouveau windows. It’s a welcome change from somber art museums.

Tuck into a hot pot of moules

Moules-frites, steaming pots of mussels served with sides of fries, are a Belgian classic. Some restaurants dish up pots of mussels year-round, but Belgians claim the best mussels are only available in months whose names contain an “r.” If you’re in Brussels at the right time of year, don’t pass on the chance to tuck into fresh mussels at Le Zinneke or Le Chou de Bruxelles . Pro tip: dip your fries into the sauce at the bottom. You won’t regret it.

Hunt for bargains in Le Marolles

Long a neighborhood of the working class, Marolles is the historic heart of Brussels. The original Brusseleer dialect can still be heard on its streets today. Though times are changing and accents are fading, Marolles is still a place to get a glimpse of the past at bargain prices. Both trash and treasure are sold at the Place du Jeu-de-Balle flea market running 365 days a year, and shopping streets Rue Haute and Rue Blaes around the square are equally rife with shops selling antiques and vintage clothes.

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Brussels Itinerary – How To Spend 1 Day In Brussels

Posted on Last updated: 23 March 2024

Categories Belgium , Itineraries

Famous for waffles, fries and chocolate, of course I couldn’t wait to visit the capital of Belgium. Here’s my one day in Brussels itinerary.

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Brussels

Getting around Brussels couldn’t be easier. There are generally 3 options:

Public Transport

The most convenient way to explore Brussels, is with a little help from public transport.

You can buy a Brussels Card with STIB Public Transportation , which allows unlimited use of all STIB buses, trams or metro lines for 24, 48 or 72 hours in the Brussels Region.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

Standard buses are available around Brussels with the Public Transportation Card.

However, there is also of course the famous Brussels Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Bus .

This bus lets you jump on and off throughout the city, and explore monuments such as the European Parliament, the Museum of Fine Arts and the world famous Atomium.

This option is always popular among tourists and is a great way to see many famous landmarks around Brussels at ease.

The Brussels Card also gives free access to 41 museums in Brussels, plus discounts on the most popular attractions, so it’s certainly worth the investment. (We can certainly recommend the MIMA Museum .)

Some of the best days out we’ve had in Brussels have been on private tours.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

From food tours to river cruises and chocolate workshops, there’s plenty to keep you busy in the Belgian capital!

Best Time To Visit Brussels

Brussels is a year round destination with plenty to do and see.

However, if you prefer the warmer weather, then June, July and August are the hottest months although also the busiest.

Spring time, especially the month of May, is recommended for moderately warm weather and fewer visitors, if you want to avoid the crowds.

Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Brussels Itinerary Day 1

Grand place.

The first stop on your one day in Brussels itinerary has to be the Grand Place!

It’s the most visited spot in the city of one of the top things to do in Brussels .

From the Town Hall to Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the Grand Place is the hub of Brussels and home to some of the most magnificent buildings in the country.

This central square of the city is the natural starting point for most tourists, as it’s an easy place to visit some of the most memorable landmarks in Brussels.

It is also considered as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

If you’re looking to cram in as much as possible with a helpful guide you may want to check out the Brussels Express Tour with Belgian Lunch, Chocolate, & Beer .

This is a quick and easy way of enjoying traditional chocolates, beer, mussels, frites, waffles, and more. All whilst seeing the historic monuments surrounding Grand Place.

Manneken Pis

Just down the lane from the Grand Place stands the most famous little dude in Brussels.

Translated from Flemish to ‘peeing boy’, Manneken Pis is a small bronze sculpture of a naked boy urinating into a fountain.

There are many tales to be told about Manneken Pis. Although the majority refer to that fact that he helped save the city of Brussels during war times by peeing on gunpowder fuses or even peeing on the enemies themselves.

Either way, he can now be seen on memorabilia all over the city and has to be included in your one day in Brussels itinerary!

Along the way on your one day in Brussels itinerary you’re going to need feeding!

Well Belgium, and Brussels in particular, is known for its fabulous naughty food. From waffles, to chocolate and fries we tried it all!

A few of our favourite spots we have to mention are:

Maison Dandoy

For the most incredible waffles we have ever tasted!

Pistolet Origi n al

For an easy snack in the form of some traditional Belgian buns.

Frit Flagey

For arguable the best fries in the city!

There also some highly rated tours such as the Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour , or the 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience .

Your 1day in Brussels itinerary could easily be turned into a ‘1 month in Brussels itinerary’ with all its delicious food selections. As for the Belgian chocolate – we’ll move onto that soon.

Mont Des Arts

For the afternoon, the Mont Des Arts is an easy way to kill some free time or alternatively, an awesome spot for sunset!

We headed across from the city centre to take a look at the viewpoint from the hill.

On the way to our chocolate workshop we walked through the popular garden that overlooks some of those famous Brussels landmarks.

There were dog walkers, as well as buskers, and it just had a really pleasant vibe to it!

Mont Des Arts should definitely be included as a quick stop when planning a one day in Brussels itinerary.

Chocolate Workshop

Located literally next door to the Mont Des Arts we found one of the highlights of our trip. The all important chocolate stop!

We were lucky enough to take part in a chocolate making workshop with the well known Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier .

With plenty of chocolate tours and workshops available in the city here are a few of the most popular:

2.5-Hour Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop

Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour

Brussels: Chocolate Workshop and Guided Walking Tour

It was an ideal way to kick that chocolate craving to the curb, and enjoy some of the highest quality chocolate in Belgium.

Not only was Laurent a fantastic host, but he was one hell of a character. Both the chocolate making experience, and of course the tasting, are something you’ll never forget if chocolate is your kind of thing.

The Atomium

How could we not include the most famous atom in the world, The Atomium .

You will need a Brussels Atomium Admission Ticket to visit the Atomium. They are cheap enough at £14 per adult, and are easy enough to be book in advance.

From the centre of town we jumped in a taxi to make sure we had plenty of time at the Atomium.

Possibly the most recognised landmark in Brussels, this silver coloured collection of spheres represents a single unit of iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.

Originally built in 1958 as part of Brussels World’s Fair (Expo 58), we took a tour of the inside as it celebrated its 60th birthday and it’s definitely a bucket list item if heading to the capital.

Tram Experience

To wrap up our evening we headed back to the city for a very different kind of experience!

Besides the naughty snacks of Brussels, there are also plenty of high quality restaurants to choose from. So we decided to switch it up by taking dinner on a tram!

One of the most entertaining evenings we had during our Europe trip, was riding through Brussels on the Tram Experience. Enjoying a seasonal menu designed by some of the city’s top chefs along the way.

It was a night to remember as we took a two hour journey through the lit-up capital all whilst tucking into a five course meal accompanied by wine and champagne.

It’s definitely something we’d recommend for a special occasion, or something for food fanatics to add to your one day in Brussels itinerary.

Where To Stay In Brussels

Hotel Metropole

This Art Deco hotel dating from 1895 is situated in the historical centre of Brussels, a 10-minute walk from Grand-Place and Brussels Central Station .

The marble staircases in the lobby lead up to the rooms, which include a TV with internet access.

The Hotel Metropole also offers 24-hour room service.

The breakfast room has the same layout and design as the Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India.

There is also Cafe Metropole where you can enjoy a premium brasserie-style cuisine in Brussels typical tradition. Guests at Hotel Metropole benefit from 6 free minibar drinks.

Vintage Hotel

Offering free WiFi throughout the property, this hotel has rooms with 70s-style décor and flat-screen cable TV.

It includes a stylish boutique wine bar and a spacious courtyard terrace. Vintage Hotel Brussels is also only 50 yards from the fashionable Avenue Louise shopping area.

Each of the rooms at Vintage Hotel Brussels includes work desk, a modern bathroom and an iHome docking station with music player, radio and alarm functions.

Guests can make use of the free WiFi. A buffet breakfast featuring fresh fruit, coffee and pastries is available daily.

Train Cabin Hostel

Located on a roof, Train cabin Hostel offers an unique concept in Brussels.

The accommodation is in an actual train sleeper cabin, used on the Belgian Railways.

The Cabin has an exterior shared bathroom fitted with a shower.

The unit comes without bedding, therefore guests bring their own sleeping bag.

For more places to stay in Brussels, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

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One Day in Brussels: A Brussels Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Brussels is one of the most popular European destinations and it’s easy to see why! From its rich and savory cuisine to the medieval architecture and neverending chocolate shops, even spending just one day in Brussels is cultural heaven.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about spending one day in Brussels including the best time to visit, practical tips for visiting, how much time you’ll need, a full-day itinerary, the best foods to try, and more!

I hope this guide helps you start planning your trip to Brussels with ease and that you have an incredible trip to the beautiful Belgian capital!

Happy Travels!

The Best Time to Visit Brussels

Brussels is a beautiful city to visit year-round with its beautiful summer weather and incredible Christmas markets in December. But, I have a few tips on when I think the best time to visit Brussels is…

Personally, I love visiting Belgium in the shoulder seasons ! The shoulder season months include March through May and mid-September through November .

“ But, won’t the weather be the best in the summer? ” – the answer to this question undoubtedly is yes, but let me explain.

Rain and poor weather are likely year-round in Belgium, so you aren’t guaranteeing yourself beautiful, sunny weather just because you visit in July.

In fact, visiting Brussels in the summer months has far more cons than pros in comparison to the shoulder seasons!

In the shoulder, or off-season, months, you’ll still experience comfortable temperatures, but you’ll also get significantly reduced rates on flights, train travel, accommodations, tours, and even food rates!

You’ll also get to experience the city with tens of thousands fewer tourists , so you may actually be able to get a few pictures without people in them.

So, yes, the summer is beautiful in Brussels, but it is far more expensive and filled with tourists during this time.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or simply don’t like walking elbow to elbow thing strangers everywhere you go, the shoulder seasons are the best time to visit Brussels!

Insider Tips for Visiting Brussels for One Day

Even if you have been to Belgium before, there are a few tips regarding Brussels that may just help you have a smoother trip.

First, as you probably know, Belgium uses the euro . If you’re traveling from the U.S., try to get some currency beforehand or when you land at the airport. This will save you from paying poor exchange rates at the local ATMs.

✔️ Like I said before, rain is a possibility any time of year in Belgium so come prepared with a rain jacket . It’s normal for temperatures to dip relatively low at night even in the summers, as well, so be sure to pack some warm layers no matter when you’re visiting!

✔️ Stay somewhere central . I can’t exaggerate this one enough… if you only have one day in Brussels, you don’t want to waste your time getting in and out of the city center just to start exploring. Also, while most of Brussels is very safe, some of the outer neighborhoods aren’t as friendly to tourists.

✔️ Don’t get caught up in all of the attractions . Brussels is a beautiful city on its own and many of the attractions are, well… subpar .

For example, I included the Manneken Pis on this itinerary, but only because you’re going to end up walking right by it. Don’t spend too much time running between “attractions”. Instead, make your way at a leisurely pace around the city, enjoy the food and beer, and make your way into a museum or two.

This will set you up for a wonderful experience versus running around to see specific buildings, palaces, statues, and other unnecessary guidebook attractions.

✔️ However, if you truly enjoy following a playbook-style itinerary, then consider purchasing a Brussels Card . It gives you free entry to 49 different museums in Brussels, a full city map, and discounts on tours, restaurants, and other Brussels attractions.

✔️ Lastly, take a walk or bike ride through Brussels’ lesser-known trendy neighborhoods like Sablon , St. Gilles , and Les Marolles . This is where you’ll find the true, authentic Belgian waffles, local pubs with friendly locals, and it will give you a step back from all of the touristy shops.

✔️ Always try to avoid eating in the centers of most European cities. The majority of the time you’ll only find overpriced food that is occasionally not up to the standards you were expecting.

By getting out of the main tourist spots, you’ll be more likely to stumble upon the local hotspots serving up authentic meals at local prices!

How Many Days Do You Need in Brussels?

Deciding how much time you need in Brussels depends entirely on you and your preferences.

If you like to take your time and explore the museums, spoil yourself at sit-down restaurants, and go shopping to find the perfect souvenir, then you would probably need about two or three days in Brussels.

Since this particular Belgian city is not as big as its nearby competitors like London or Paris, you can get around rather quickly and easily so you won’t spend a lot of time traveling between places.

But, if you like to be on the move constantly and don’t need much relaxing time, then one day in Brussels is likely going to be enough for you.

Is One Day in Brussels Enough?

Personally, yes. Brussels can easily be explored in one day since it is very walkable, has excellent transportation, and doesn’t have too many grand attractions worth visiting.

For the most part, visiting Brussels is all about being captivated by the stunning architecture and charming, medieval streets. So, once you’ve walked the city streets, tasted the food, and picked yourself out a souvenir (these are the best Belgian souvenirs ), you’ve practically done everything there is to do in Brussels.

There are dozens of museums available for exploring if you love art and history, but if that isn’t really your style, then one day in Brussels is enough time.

The Perfect One Day in Brussels Itinerary

The itinerary below has been designed to be followed chronologically, but there is no stopping you from having a Belgian waffle at dinner… use it either as a step-by-step itinerary or as a general guide of the best things to do in Brussels!

Stop #1: Belgian Waffles

There truly is no better way to start your day in Brussels than with an authentic, hot Belgian waffle. My go-to was always with Nutella, strawberries, and bananas, but if you’re on a bit of a time crunch, just the classic plain waffle is perfect for when you’re eating on the go.

Locals have said that the unassuming food cart called Vitalgaufre has the best waffles in Brussels! They’re located on Rue Neuve 23/29 and almost always have a long line. But, don’t let that make you second guess your decision to go there!

The waffles are wonderfully chewy in the center and deliciously caramelized on the outside for the perfect, traditional Belgian waffle!

Brussels Royal Museums of Fine Arts

While most people will tell you to start your day in Grand Place, I highly suggest starting your day at any museums you want to visit – this includes the Royal Museums of Fine Arts!

The lines for museums begin early in the day, so to waste the least amount of time standing in line, buy your tickets online and get there early (link for tickets under How Much Does a Day in Brussels Cost? )

This group of six museums holds tens of thousands of sculptures, pieces of artwork including paintings and drawings, as well as innumerable exhibits dating back to the early 15 th century.

If you have an art or history enthusiast in your group, be sure to check out at least one of these museums during your one day in Brussels.

Grote Markt (Grand Place)

Grote Markt is one of the most photographed places in all of Europe and there is no determining why… also known as Grand Place, the city center is made up of grand cathedrals and medieval architecture as far as the eye can see!

You’ll find everything from streetside cafes (though I always recommend looking for food outside of the city center) to cozy bookshops and plenty of chocolate stores to indulge in.

Grote Markt is not only a great place to spend a few hours taking in the scenery and sheer beauty of Belgium’s capital, but it’s also the perfect starting point for getting to the Atomium and the Royal Palace on public transportation.

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a statue of exactly what it sounds like… a little boy peeing into a fountain. It has actually been called one of the worst tourist traps in Europe , but since you will probably walk right by it, you might as well grab a picture.

It’s an icon of Brussels but I promise that it will likely leave you with more laughs than anything else.

Don’t make a point to include it on your one day in Brussels itinerary, but if you happen to spot it when leaving Grote Markt, spend a minute or two then move on.

Shopping in Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

This indoor shopping center in Brussels is the epitome of luxury and sophistication in Belgium. From luxury jewelry stores to famous chocolateries, there is nothing that you can’t find in the Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert!

If you’re a true shopaholic, wander the arcade’s halls and window-shop for at least an hour (though you will likely want to stay longer).

Owing to its convenient location just a one-minute walk from Grote Markt and endless storefronts, there is no better place to go shopping in Brussels!

Belgian Chocolate

You simply can’t visit the capital of Belgium and not sample at least some chocolate while you’re there. Even if you normally don’t like chocolate, Belgian chocolate may just change your life!

World-famous for its hand-crafted delicacies, Belgium is particularly known for its pralines. Not to be confused with the French definition, Belgian pralines are small chocolates typically filled with toffee, mouse, marshmallow, caramel, or another type of filling.

Of course, you’ll also find your traditional milk, semi-sweet, dark, and white chocolates, as well. Belgian chocolates will often have a higher percentage of cocoa, making them rich and dark by nature.

Chocolate Tour

Chocolate is my favorite food in all categories – if you’re the same way, check out one of Brussels’ incredible chocolate tours! It’s a great way to connect with the locals, meet fellow travelers, and sample plenty of Belgian chocolate!

Royal Palace of Brussels

Even though the king and queen of Belgium no longer reside in this Royal Palace of Brussels, it is an impressive palace to visit nevertheless.

The gardens alone are worth a stroll and the palace is free to visit and open to the public typically from late July to the beginning of September.

This building has centuries of history worth analyzing if you or someone you’re with is a real history buff!

The Atomium is a little ways out of the city center, but it can be easily reached by public transportation and is well worth the trip if you have some extra time.

“The Atomium is magnified 165 billion times the normal size of an iron crystal” ( Source ) and is quite spectacular to see for people of all ages. As someone who enjoys and has studied science for years, this is a remarkable attraction to check out!

You can actually climb to the top of this 335-foot structure and get sensational views of Brussels and the surrounding region. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a loved one, or with your family, this is a wonderful attraction to include on your one day Brussels itinerary!

Go Brewery Hopping

The perfect way to round out your one day in Brussels is to do a little beer tasting. Belgian beer is known for its unique use of yeast that makes crisp, refreshing brews that are different from many beers on the market today.

Whether you want to join a Brussels beer and food tour or you want to make your own brewery hopping itinerary, you should try to sample at least two different kinds of beer during your 24 hours in the Belgian capital.

Personally, I prefer wine and spirits over beer, but I really enjoyed the beer in Belgium. It had a far lighter taste to it than what I was used to and I would happily join a beer tour the next time I visit!

Map for One Day in Brussels Itinerary

This one day itinerary for Brussels includes all of the major sights and attractions within walking distance of Grote Markt. However, it does not include the Basilique Nationale du Sacré Coeur or the Atomium .

If you wish to visit either of these attractions, I suggest using public transportation to get there.

How to Get to Brussels

Depending on where you’re coming from, getting to Brussels for a day is very simple.

Belgium has an excellent public transportation system, so you’ll be able to reach the capital via bus, train, metro, tram, and even waterbus on the Senne canal if you’re coming from within the country.

If you’re coming from outside of Belgium, you have a few options. The Eurail is my personal favorite way of getting between major cities in Europe because it offers gorgeous scenery and the chance to sit back and relax comfortably.

However, if you’re over a few countries away (Eastern Europe, for example) then flying will likely be your best option. It will almost always be faster and more affordable since many flights are direct when coming from within the European Union.

There are also ferries available from the United Kingdom. Though no routes are permanent, so sometimes your best option will be to take a ferry to either France or Holland then finish the journey via train.

Getting Around Brussels for One Day

Brussels is one of the most walkable cities in the world, so it’s easy to spot that walking will be the primary method of getting around.

But, if you’re interested in getting around like the locals do, consider renting a bike! It’s a fun, efficient, and affordable way of seeing the city if you’re short on time or aren’t as interested in doing a lot of walking.

Because there will be lots of walking in Brussels…

If bike rentals sound fun to you, check out Pro Velo Bruxelles on Rue de Londres! They offer bikes for children and adults, hourly rentals, full-day rentals, and more. You also have the option of renting an electric scooter if that interests you.

Brussels is also well equipped with its public transportation system. You have the option of taking the metro nearly anywhere in the city! This is going to be the most affordable option for getting around Brussels (other than walking, of course) and is highly suggested.

In my opinion, do a combination of walking and taking the metro to get yourself from A to B. The downfall of the metro is that it doesn’t allow you to see all of the beautiful sights in between destinations like walking does.

But, we all know that walking can get old after miles on end of exploring. So, use the metro to get between longer distances, but be sure to walk around a good portion of the city so you get the experience.

Lastly, avoid renting a car at all costs . Brussels is extremely walkable and therefore has very heavy pedestrian traffic. It’s also a large city, so car traffic is heavy too.

Do your best to stick to walking and public transportation to ensure a smooth journey throughout your one day in Brussels!

Where to Stay in Brussels for One Day

Since you may only be visiting Brussels for one day, it’s important to stay close to all of the action where you’ll be within walking distance of most attractions. The two best areas for this include the Grote Markt and the Old Town .

Grote Markt is likely going to have the most expensive options, so if you’re trying to stick to a budget, look for hotels in the Old Town. You’ll still be near the city center where the Saint-Michel Cathedral and Manneken Pis are, as well as plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping areas.

The Old Town is separated into districts: the Upper and Lower Towns . Both will provide excellent options for nightlife, a range of accommodations, and close proximity to the metro.

Best Food in Brussels

Belgium is known for its amazing food across Europe! I mean, whoever thought of dipping french fries in mussels and wine is a culinary genius .

Seriously, Belgian cuisine goes far past just incredible pralines, beer, and waffles… they’re also well versed in preparing flavorful dishes made up of local meats and vegetables, crispy french fries, and the ultimate savory meatballs.

If you’re heading to Brussels, be sure to try these local favorites:

✔️ Moules Frites : a dish consisting of tender mussels that have been cooked in a rich, savory broth that is served with Belgian fries for dipping (I seriously can’t wait to return to Belgium for another plate of this!)

✔️ Boulets à la Liégeoise : the traditional Belgian meatball. Also known as Le Boulet, this hearty dish is always served in a rich meat gravy.

✔️ Belgian Fries : You’re going to see many people walking around with a cone of fries in their hands and you should definitely join them. Belgian fries are light, crispy, and soft in the center. They are often topped with an aioli of sorts or a combination of toppings such as ketchup, gravy, or onions.

✔️ Belgian Waterzooi : A classic Flemish stew usually consisting of meat (chicken or fish), vegetables, and a creamy, savory broth. It makes for a wonderful lunch or dinner, especially on cool nights in Brussels!

Outside of these popular dishes, Belgium is of course known for its beer , waffles , and chocolate , so be sure to sample at least a couple varieties of these, as well.

Popular Food Tours in Brussels

If you’re a true foodie like I am, consider taking a food tour in Brussels! They’ll bring you to the best local spots in town without having to wait long for your food and you’ll have an opportunity to taste a larger variety of food, beer, waffles, chocolate, and even whiskey!

Is Brussels Worth a Day Trip?

In short, yes! Brussels is absolutely worth a day trip if you’re able to include it on one of your European itineraries .

To start, Brussels is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe owing to its medieval architecture, grand square, vibrant streetside cafes, and glamorous palace.

There is plenty to keep you entertained in this city, so if you have the option of visiting even if it is just for one day, take the opportunity and go!

How Much Does a Day in Brussels Cost?

With all of Brussels’ outstanding architecture, extravagant art galleries, and luxurious chocolates comes a price.

Brussels may not be as expensive as Paris or London , but that doesn’t make it necessarily cheap either. Below I’ve provided you with a breakdown of the average cost of accommodations, meals, transportation, and attractions to help you decide if spending one day in Brussels is right for you.

Even though some of these prices are higher than other European destinations, keep in mind that anyone can visit Brussels for a day on any type of budget… you just need to be willing to keep your eye out for a good deal!

Accommodations

Budget Hostel : €40-60/night for a single traveler Mid-Range Hotel : €85-160/night for double occupancy Luxury Hotel : €160-215+/night for double occupancy

Waffle with Chocolate and Strawberries : €4-6 Bowl of Waterzooi : €9-12 Pint of Beer : €6 Moules Frites : €15-25

Transportation

Single Tram or Bus Journey: €2.10 (€2.50 if you purchase onboard) Return Journey Ticket : €4.20 One Day Travel Card : €7.50 (expires at midnight on the day of purchase)

Attractions

Atomium : €9.25/16.95 (teenager/adult) Place Royale : Free Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts : €3-15 (varies on age and number of exhibits you’re visiting)

Day Trips from Brussels

If you have some extra time to spare on your trip to Brussels, you’re in luck! There are dozens of amazing places just around the corner waiting for you to explore them.

But, even if you only have one extra day, these are some of the best day trips to take from Brussels.

Bruges is my favorite place in Belgium! At just one hour via train from Brussels, it’s an enchanting day trip for the whole family.

Spend the day strolling through Markt Square, enjoying a canal boat ride, and photographing all of the magical architecture in this gothic city.

Bruges mimics a fairytale in so many ways making it one of the most popular day trips from Brussels!

Most commonly recognized for its 10 th century Gravensteen Castle, Ghent is another medieval Belgian destination close to Brussels. Reachable in just 35 minutes via train, there is no reason not to take at least a few hours to explore Ghent!

While walking around Ghent, be sure to visit the two most popular quays in the city: Graslei and Korenlei. This is where you’ll find dozens of historic buildings perched along the beautiful canals of the city lined with colorful outdoor cafes and patios.

If you’re on a mission to explore some of the oldest and most medieval buildings in Belgium, then a day trip to Ghent from Brussels should be on your list!

While Antwerp is home to the beautiful Grote Markt (Great Market Square) and the towering Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp, it’s also a bustling metropolis for businesses.

This Belgian city is far more industrialized than its medieval counterparts, but you will find dozens of museums, art exhibits and galleries, and lots of culture.

If you’re a true city fan, check out what city life is like for Belgians by going on a day trip to Antwerp from Brussels!

✔️ Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the best day trips from Brussels that you can take. It offers you the opportunity to experience a completely different world just next door to Belgium!

Similar to Bruges, Amsterdam offers some incredible boat rides along its canals. But, instead of enjoying a classic Belgian waffle, you’ll be picking up an authentic stroopwafel from Albert Cuyp Market.

Amsterdam has so much to explore from the infamous Red Light District to the neighborhoods of De Pijp, Jordaan, and De Wallen, there is no end in sight to the experiences you can have here.

On your next day trip to Amsterdam from Brussels, be sure to check out some of the nearby windmills in Zaanse Schans!

Paris is on most travelers’ bucket lists… so, why not include a day trip to Paris if you have more than one day in Brussels?

Now, this will require a bit more leg work since the train will take you close to 6 hours, but if you aren’t opposed to flying then you can be there in under an hour nonstop!

Paris is one of the most romantic and magical destinations in Europe. Along your Parisian travels, listen to the Notre Dame bells ring, watch the Eiffel Tower glitter at night, and enjoy a freshly baked croissant while walking along the Seine.

To truly experience Paris, don’t get caught up in all of the sites and attractions. Instead, enjoy the little things and make the most out of visiting Paris… even if it is only for one day!

✔️ Pro Tip: Psst… a guide to the best day trips from Brussels is at the bottom of this post. And no, it doesn’t include Ghent or Antwerp!

What to Do if You Have More than One Day in Brussels

If you happen to be spending more than one day in Brussels, you’ll have the opportunity to include several more sights and activities or even take a Day Trip to Luxembourg from Brussels !

Brussels is an epicenter for exciting things to do and see in Europe, so you won’t be far from dozens of interesting things to do.

To start, you could opt to see Mini-Europe which is located near the Atomium . This unique display highlights numerous iconic landmarks found across Europe on a 1:25 scale and is popular among couples and families.

There are also dozens of art galleries, eclectic exhibits, and historical museums located throughout the city. Personally, we found the chocolate museums the most fascinating owing to our love for chocolate.

If you prefer to spend less time in museums and more time sightseeing, be sure to join a couple of free walking tours or guided walking tours ! You can find ones unique to the city’s vibrant culture and history, food and beer tours, chocolate tasting tours, pub crawls, and more.

Just take a peek at some of the Viator tours I linked to, or browse around for a tour that speaks to you and your group’s preferences. You can also opt for private, fully customizable tours if you’re traveling with a large group (like the chocolate tour listed under Viator above) so you can travel the city with a local!

Other popular ideas include visiting the Laeken Palace , the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart , the Marolles Flea Market , Leopoldspark , and Halle Gate .

If you have more than one day in Brussels, you can choose to fill your time with more exciting activities and things to do, or you can sit back and relax and do some people-watching from one of the dozens of cafes surrounding the city streets.

✔️ Pro Tip : Brussels is quite a small city in comparison to other European cities, so you likely won’t need more than 2 or 3 days (maximum) here. I recommend keeping your itinerary slightly flexible so you can choose to stay longer or leave a day early if you so choose.

Can I See Brussels in Half a Day?

Owing to Brussel’s smaller size, you can still see a lot of great landmarks and sights even if you only have half a day.

You’ll likely need to remove some of the aforementioned stops on the itinerary, otherwise, you’ll probably find yourself feeling very rushed and short on time everywhere you go.

Unless you’re a big art or history enthusiast, I would recommend omitting the museums and the Atomium from your itinerary. This will allow you ample time to just roam the Grand Place, indulge in the decadent food and alcohol, and take some great pictures.

Especially since the Atomium requires a car or metro ride from the city, it will take up far too much of your time. Likewise goes for the museums… unless you have one in mind that you’re truly dying to see, you can probably just skip them.

Brussels is best known for its intricate architecture and stunning displays, so instead of getting caught up in all of the landmarks and materialistic shopping, just enjoy the short amount of time you have!

What if I Only Have One Night in Brussels?

Say you just have a quick stopover in between destinations and only have time to see the city for a few hours at night, you’re actually in luck!

Brussels is absolutely stunning at night… all the shops and restaurants in Grand Place and the surrounding streets are lit up, creating an elegant glow around the city.

No matter what time of the year you choose to visit, you’ll be able to witness Brussels in a magical aura at night!

As for the itinerary, you won’t be able to see or do much after dark except roam the city and enjoy the food, beer, and lights. For us, this actually sounds amazing…

If you enjoy cozy evenings surrounded by light music, the smell of waffles and chocolate, and sophisticated lighting, then a night in Brussels is going to be a dream trip for you.

Is Bruges or Brussels Better?

There is a lot of debate over which Belgian town you should visit if you’re short on time, and while we’d love to tell you that one is clearly better than the other, it really does depend on your preferences.

For us, we found Bruges to be absolutely magical. We fell in love with the lovely canals and charming bridges, and we also thought that it was just a smidge less touristy than Brussels.

But, we have heard of other travelers who love the big-city feel of Brussels and the enchanting Grand Place! So, it really does depend on what you’re looking for. If you enjoy fairytale towns with whimsical architecture and chocolate shops around every corner, then you should visit Bruges.

But, if you prefer to bounce quickly from major city to major city when traveling across Europe and don’t care much for the smaller regions, then Brussels will be more your style.

Like I said, we highly recommend visiting Bruges if you get the chance, but if you only have time for Brussels, then spending a day in the Belgian capital will be wonderful, as well.

If you’re still debating between visiting the two most popular towns in Belgium, check out our ultimate comparison between Bruges vs Brussels !

More One Day in a City Itineraries

Enjoying our one day itineraries? Check out some more from other popular European destinations!

One Day in Bruges One Day in Paris One Day in Berlin One Day in Lisbon One Day in Porto One Day in Amsterdam One Day in Budapest One Day in Barcelona One Day in Prague One Day in Ghent

Caramelized waffles, world-renowned pralines, and endless Belgian-style ales are enough to keep me coming back to Belgium over and over again.

That’s why I created this one day in Brussels itinerary so you can pack as much into your 24 hours in the Belgian capital as possible!

This itinerary and guide has been designed to help make your planning a breeze, so I hope it does just that and you have a wonderful one day in Brussels !

Cheers! Emily

3 Incredible Day Trips from Brussels

If I had known about these 3 incredible towns in Belgium, I would have spent WAAAY less time in Brussels…

And no, they aren’t Ghent or Antwerp!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Brussels in One day Itinerary – Best of Brussels in a day

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Need the perfect Brussels in one day itinerary ? We got you covered with essential tips and an easy to follow Brussels in a day guide.

Brussels was a pleasant surprise for us. When we booked our trip to Brussels Belgium , we didn’t think much about sightseeing here. We were happy with our week-long stay in the city and were impressed by how accessible it was to other cities and countries. But our one day in Brussels itinerary turned into a lifelong appreciation for the city.

We stayed in Brussels for 7 days and have selected some of the finest spots for Brussels in a day itinerary. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

One day in Brussels Itinerary: Things to do in Brussels in one day (Snapshot)

• The Brussels Cathedral – St Michael and St Gudula
• Royal Palace of Brussels
• Palais du Coudenberg 

Brussels/Belgium Tourist Information Center

Mont des arts gardens or kunstberg, grand place/grote markt, houses of the grand place, brussels city museum at the king’s house (grand place), manneken pis statue & jeanneke pis, anspach shopping brussels.

• Comic Strip Walk and Belgian Comic Strip Center Museum 
• Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert 

Rues des Bouchers

Brussels has so much to offer – from the medieval Grand Place to the European Union Headquarters to comic history to tasting Belgium chocolates, waffles, and beer. 

The scientific inventions, the comic revelations, and its European Union dimensions – everything adds a unique charm to the city of Brussels (boy, that rhymed). We have also included additional sightseeing for 2 days in Brussels if you happen to extend your stay (like us). We were surely smitten by the city.

In Brussels, we found Europe at its finest. These are the top things that you SHOULD definitely do in Brussels in a day.

Quick Tips – Make the most of one day in Brussels

We stayed in Brussels for a week and totally loved it. This one day in Brussels Itinerary is exactly what we did on our first day of exploration of the city. The majority of the popular tourist attractions in Brussels are located in the central part of the city and that’s where we recommend spending most of your day.

• Arriving in Brussels – Brussels is served by Brussels Zaventem Airport (also called Brussel-Nationaal / Bruxelles-National), which is located in the northeast part of Brussels. In order to arrive at the city centre from Brussels Airport, you can either take a bus, train or a taxi.
• The cab fare will cost around 50 euros. Airport Taxis can be reserved online for 85 euros.
• Brussels car rentals can be arranged for at the airport. Hertz, Avis rental offices are available at the airport.
• The train ride from Brussels Airport to Brussels Central Station takes around 18 minutes and costs 12.70 euros. From the Brussels Central station or Brussels Midi, you can take a bus or train to your hotel. The nearest train station to Grand Place is De brouckere Metro Station.
• STIB Airport Line is a public bus network (Line 12 and 21) that operates from the airport to many other stops in the city including Brussels Central Station. Line 21 will take you to the Grand Place area (last stop) on weekends. Tickets cost around 4.50 euros.
• De Lijn bus company operates a shuttle transfer service. Tickets are around 3+ euros and take about 40 minutes to reach the city centre area.
• Brussels is also well connected via road and rail networks in Europe. There are high-speed trains (Thalys) available from Brussels to other countries like Amsterdam in the Netherlands (2 hours or less) and Paris in France (1.50- 2 hours).
• Where to stay in Brussels?  If you are visiting Brussels for a day or a short trip, then stay in the Brussels city centre area for better access to sightseeing spots. We stayed at the easyHotel Brussels City Centre – it is a low to mid-budget hotel, very clean and chic. The rooms were not very big, but the staff was friendly and we scored the accommodation for a great price in a central location. Book your stay at the easyHotel Brussels City Centre

One day in Brussels Itinerary – What to do in Brussels for a day?

Start your day bright and early at the Brussels city centre (1000 Brussels). Head to one of the cafes located by St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral for breakfast – waffles (of course) and a latte.

If you are interested in exploring the Atomium Park or mini Europe, we recommend taking a hop on and hop off sightseeing bus in the morning and checking off those areas first, and then returning to the city centre to explore further. Brussels Sightseeing Hop on hop off bus tours start near St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral and the bus tour loop is for 1 hour.

These are not guided tours but are a really convenient way of exploring the city from the city centre to the downtown area and outskirts (like the Castle of Laeken – the official residence of the king of Belgium). Book your 24 0r 48 bus tour here

Here are the things to see in Brussels in one day,

The Brussels Cathedral – St Michael and St Gudula  

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral are twin cathedrals located in central Brussels. The two Roman Catholic cathedrals co-exist, as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen- Brussels.

The cathedral was built in Gothic style and it actually took three hundred (300) years to complete.

The cathedral is made up of a stone quarry and looks stunning from the outside. The interiors of the cathedral are equally stunning with many marble alabaster altarpieces and baroque style pulpits. The stained glass windows date back to the 1500s and the church also has an organ with over 4000 pipes. 

Truly an iconic landmark, the Brussels Cathedral is the main Catholic church of Belgium .

Price: Free for the Cathedral, 1 euro for the Archaeological site

Address: Place Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Royal Palace of Brussels 

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the king and queen of Belgium, located in central Brussels. The palace is also known as Palais Royal de Bruxelles (in French).

The Royal Palace was built in neoclassical style and is very stunning to look at, adorned by the Belgium flag on top.

The palace is located in the southern part of the Parc de Bruxelles (Brussels Park) in the high part of town. The Royal Palace is no longer the residence of the king and queen.

Currently, it serves as an official palace and an administrative seat for the Belgium monarchy. The palace has staterooms where royal receptions are held and guests of the royal family are hosted here even today.

The official residence is located on the outskirts of Brussels – at the Royal Palace of Laeken.

The Royal Palace is not open for visitors all year round. It is only open from late July to the beginning of September every year Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays).

Price: Free (including the visits to the Palace from July to September)

Address: Place des Palais – 1000 Brussels

Read: Belgium Itinerary 3 days

Palais du Coudenberg 

The Palace of Coudenberg (Palais du Coudenberg) was the seat of governance for about 700 years under countless kings, dukes, and monarchs extending the southern side of the Netherlands to northern Belgium.

The name Coudenberg is derived from the small hill, on which the castle was built. For years, no one knew about this palace. In the 18th century, when the Royal Palace was built, the castle of Coudenberg was buried underneath it and the areas in and around it were almost leveled.

With recent excavations, historians and visitors are now taking an interest in the Palais du Coudenberg. The palace hosts temporary exhibitions and guided tours are available as well.

Price: 7 euros for the site visit (1-2 hr). Open Tuesday to Friday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

Address: Place des Palais 7 – 1000 Brussels

The Brussels/Belgium Tourist Information Center is located very close to Coudenberg Palace. The information center building is really pretty and I loved the stairway leading to the office.

From the tourist office, if you continue walking away (opposite side) from the Coudenberg Palace, you will find yourself surrounded by Flemish architectural buildings.  You will soon find a beautifully manicured garden called the Mont des Arts Gardens with a central statue.

The Mont des Arts is a beautiful park and a historic square located between the upper and lower parts of the town of Brussels.

Due to its location, the square offers stunning views of the city and its gorgeous Flemish buildings. On bright clear days, you can even see the Atomium from here.

Mont des Arts or Kunstberg literally means hill or mount of the arts.

The Garden of the Mont des is surrounded by the Royal Library of Belgium and the statue of King Albert I stands tall in the square.

Price: Free. Open 24/7

Address: 1000 Brussels

The Grand Place or the Groke Markt is THE iconic landmark of Belgium. It is located in the heart of Brussels and is considered one of the most important squares in the country. So this tourist spot should be included in your Brussels one day itinerary.

The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Following the induction of the Grand Place to the UNESCO List, several decrees were passed for the protection of the heritage by the City Administration of the Brussels-Capital Region.

You will be completely mesmerized by the stunning gold ornate designs on all merchant and guild buildings at the Groke Markt.

The Grand Place is a living testimony to the success of Brussels’s mercantile class and its resilience in the face of destruction, under the hands of King Louis IX and rising to grandeur as a rich European nation. 

There are three main structures that make up the grandeur of the Grokt Markt. They include – the town hall, King’s house, and the houses of the Grand Place. This place is opulent and speaks volumes of the grandeur of Belgium architecture. 

The buildings that you see when you step into the Grand Place are actually a replica of the original Grand Place guilds. Those guilds were built in the 1690s and they were built in stunning Italian baroque designs with gold finishing. As you take a stroll along the square, you will find separate blocks of houses.

Each column of the house (built in Flemish style) was an incorporated merchant office. Some of the notable ones include – the House of the Corporation of Bakers (built in 1696), House of the Corporation of Greasers (1644), House of the Corporation of Carpenters (1644), House of the Corporation of Boatmen (1697), House of the Corporation of Tailors (1697), Corporation of Painters (1697), etc. There are also private houses that are restored.

Did you know that in 2010, the Grote Markt was rated as the best (number 1) square in Europe to visit!

Price : Free

Location: 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

Originally built as a bread house, the King’s house at the Grand Place had undergone several demolitions and renovations to later become a seat of administrative importance. Thereafter the bread house became the Duke’s house.

When the same Duke became king, the now stone building came to be known as the King’s house. The Museum of the City of Brussels is located in this building.

Price : 8 euros for adults. Group and guided tours are also available.

You may like this tour : Brussels Walking Tour

Brussels Town Hall

The town hall at Grand Place is the only medieval building that exists in its original form at the Groke Markt.  The Townhall is also the focal point of the square.

The town hall was built in different stages during the early part of the 15th century and hence when you look at the architecture closely, you will find that it is asymmetrical. Asymmetry is evident with the tower not built exactly in the middle of the building and neither sides of the tower are symmetrical.  

This town hall reminds us of the new city hall in Marienplatz in Munich (minus the singing clock). Currently, the Town Hall houses a significant portion of municipal offices. It is embellished by a bell tower which is the most iconic structure of the square.

Price: Free

The Manneken Pis is a weird tourist attraction in Brussels. It is weird because it is a statue of a “little boy who is peeing” into a fountain. This statue is a replica of a similar bronze sculpture from the 1600s. There is another bronze statue, called the Jeanneke Pis, which is Mannekin Pis’s female counterpart. 

There are many legends and stories associated with the Manneken Pis which has made him quite popular. The Manneken Pis is located southwest of the town hall, it is located two blocks behind the town hall. 

The Manneken Pis is a local hero and the people of Brussels love him so much that they dress him up in different attires all year around. 

Location : 2 blocks behind, near the Town Hall (Manneken Pis). Jeanneke Pis is located in an alleyway, from the Manneken Pis

At Grand Place, there are horse-drawn carriage tours available to explore the city centre. These tours cost €44 and take about 30 minutes. It is a great way to celebrate this historic square.

If horse-carriage is not your thing, take a stroll around the buildings and do some souvenir shopping or eat your heart out.

This area in and around the Groke Markt is lined with souvenir stores and restaurants. We enjoyed live music as we walked through the narrow lanes.

If you are hungry, now is the perfect time to rest your feet and enjoy Belgium Frites with sauces. Frites in Brussels are served in a similar manner as in the Netherlands. So they are in a cone and you get to choose from a multitude of sauces. Keep in mind, that sauce charges are an extra .50 cents or so.

And I can’t eat anything without sauce so tried a bunch of different ones (in different food stalls). The curry sauce was my ABSOLUTE favorite.

As you walk away from Grand Place and towards the nearest train station (De brouckere), you will be welcomed to a shopping complex, called the Anspach Shopping Centre. If you are looking to purchase clothes, bags, or any accessories – this is the place.

The stores here carried trendy and fast-fashion labels (European labels for less.) They are like your Forever XXI of North America, if you know what I mean – super trendy.

Comic Strip Walk and Belgian Comic Strip Center Museum 

Did you know that Brussels is home to the comic stars? I mean there is an entire lane, filled with murals of Tin tin, Spirou, and the Smurfs. They are also everywhere in the city.

The Belgian Comic Strip Walk is a lane full of murals in Brussels city centre. There are about 55 murals. It is definitely a treat to the eye and makes for a great photography location. Brussels loves Tin tin and it is evident in the form of blonde hair graffiti which can be found everywhere in the city.

There is a comic museum dedicated to the colorful world of comics called the Comic Strip Center. There are exhibitions, art displays, and information and reading rooms at the Comic Center. 

Price : 10 euros for adults and 7 euros for visitors between 12-25 years (Open all year round)

Location: Rue des Sables/Zandstraat 20 (The nearest railway station is Brussels-Congress)

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert 

 Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries is ABSOLUTELY stunning. It was really hard to believe that this was a shopping complex. This gallery dates back to the 1850s. The interiors of the hall are gorgeous and look like a grand palace.

There are clothing stores, confectioners and chocolate shops, and cafes located inside.

If you would like to capture some beautiful images of the mall interiors, arrive early (before 08:00 am) or after 09:30 pm, when the stores are closing.

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is on the UNESCO “Tentative List”, due to its cultural importance.

Location: Rue des Bouchers 5, 1000 Bruxelles

There is a popular tourist lane (Rue des Bouchers) near the Galeries Royales Hall. It is filled with multi-cuisine restaurants and local specialties. Some restaurants have neon lights, with interesting signs and prices.

By interesting prices, I mean, you will find something for dinner from 4 Euros to 80 euros per person, depending on your choice of restaurant.

Restaurants have their menu and specials (with prices) on the door, so you can select wisely. (Check out what to eat in the Brussels section below)

The Rue des Bouchers area is alive and kicking into the later hours of the night, so a perfect place to sit back and enjoy Belgium beer and a meal after a long day of sightseeing.

Location: Rue des Bouchers 1000 Bruxelles

If you staying at the City Center, this area is very close by and is completely safe to walk down at night as well. Train stations are also located nearby (De Brouckere)

Tips for Brussels Itinerary 2 days 

If you happen to stay in Brussels for another day and wish to explore more of this heritage city, then we have some recommendations for you. For Brussels Itinerary 2 days , venture out and away from the City Center and explore other landmarks from the Atomium Park to the Brussels Stock Exchange. 

Atomium Park 

We referred to Atomium Park earlier. The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels and is very unique in design. It was created for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair (Expo 58) and is now a fully operating museum.

When you see the image of the Atomium below, you will know the name Atomium is very apt – the structure resembles the molecular “atom”. Oh Brussels, how cool!

Mini Europe 

The Mini-Europe is a miniature park located at the foot of the Atomium. The mini-Europe has reproductions of monuments in the European Union on display. It represents around 80 cities.

Laeken Palace Brussels

The Castle of Laeken is the official residence of the King of the Belgians. This is where the royal family resides. You cannot visit the palace as it is off-limits to the public. The palace lies in the Brussels region, about 5 km north of the city centre in the municipality of Laeken.

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a Roman Catholic Minor Basilica located in the Koekelberg neighborhood in Brussels, Belgium. The church was dedicated to the Sacred Heart. The church has two towers and two museums.

Marolles Flea Market  

Marolles is a flea market located at Place du Jeu de Balle, Brussels. This place has quite a bit of history actually. In the good old days it was called the “Old Market” (or the “Vieux Marché” in French) and was intended to serve as a playing field for “balle pelote” players in 1853).

Today it is a popular flea market in Brussels. About 450 merchants work here every day of the year, selling some vintage-y items to collect and take home from your visit.

There is a glass elevator or lift that goes from Place Poelaert down into the Marolles. You can see Brussels city views from this lift.

Downtown Area of Brussels

Brussels has the largest number of European Union offices, including the European Parliament building in the Leopold Quarter.

Parc Léopold or Leopoldspark

Parc Léopold or Leopoldspark is a public park located within the Leopold Quarter of Brussels, adjacent to the Paul-Henri Spaak building, the seat of the European Parliament.

Halle Gate 

The Halle Gate is a medieval fortified city gate of the second walls of Brussels. Today it is a museum and belongs to the Royal Museums for Art and History in Belgium.

Map – One day in Brussels Itinerary

First time visitors travel tips – One day Brussels Itinerary

You do get a good taste of Brussels by exploring the above sightseeing spots. If you are planning to extend your stay, you can take day trips from Brussels to explore more of Belgium as we did, it is easy to explore Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent from here.

Here are some handy tips for your Brussels 1 day itinerary for the first time visitor

Travel Documents/ Belgium Visa

Belgium is part of the Euro Zone – Schengen agreement. Schengen visas are acceptable in 26 European countries and have to be applied ahead of time before arriving in Belgium. Learn more about Schengen visa application here (Schengen visa doesn’t apply to London, United Kingdom)

Using this visa, passport holders from non-visa exempt countries can visit neighboring countries like France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Non-visa-exempt countries include India, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Saudi Arabia to name a few. 

Visa-exempt countries – US and Canadian passport holders will be required to apply for online travel authorization from January 2025. It can be applied online and the authorization slip or email will arrive in 24-48 hours. For right now, passport holders can travel without it and can stay in a Schengen zone for 90 days for tourist purposes.

Travel Insurance is essential for Schengen Visa applications. We recommend that you always insure your trip should plans, change or in the event of medical emergencies.  Get travel insurance quotes for your trip here

Brussels Airport

Brussels Airport is located in the northeast part of the city. There are multiple ways to reach the city centre from the airport including cabs, trains, buses, and renting a car yourself.

Typically, it would take 20-50 minutes to arrive depending on your mode of transport.

Transportation in Brussels

Local buses are convenient to explore within the city. Bus fares are 4.50 Euros. You can also purchase a day or weekly pass depending on your length of stay.

There is an STIB transit pass available, which is a cost-saver if you are planning on using this network extensively. It also includes free entry to sightseeing attractions. You should keep the ticket throughout the train ride. Get your card here

Brussels has a strong rail network, within and outside of Belgium. Internal trains are called SNCB and they connect from Brussels to Bruges , Leaven, Namur, Ghent, and other towns and cities in Belgium.

Trains are also available from Brussels to neighboring areas. This includes both high-speed and regular trains.

The trains are safe and clean. We took train journeys from Brussels in the second class compartment and they were comfortable and clean.

Read : Should you visit Brussels or Bruges?

Official Language in Brussels Belgium

There are 3 official languages in Belgium – French, Dutch, and German. Due to its close proximity to the French, German, and Dutch borders, you will see landmarks in dual or triple languages.

Oh, Bruxelles Midi = Brussel-Zuid = Brussels South Station (they are the same, just different languages)

Where to stay in Brussels?

For a short stay, up to a week or so, staying at a central location will be really convenient for sightseeing, taking trains, shopping, and eating. We stayed at the central location (at the city centre) and there are hotel options for all budget levels.

Here are some of our recommendations –

Hotel Hilton Grand Place – Located close to the iconic Grand Place, the Hotel Hilton Grand Place is a great location to be in. This is a luxury hotel with good hospitality and grand rooms. The hotel has fitness and banquet rooms. It also has big rooms for families.  Book your stay at the Hotel Hilton Grand Place

Hotel NH Collection Brussels Centre –The NH Collection is a vintage hotel, dating back to the 1920s. It is situated in a great location and conveniently close to Grand Place and other sightseeing areas. The hotel property has clean rooms, with modern amenities. They are welcome pets (Pet friendly).   Book your stay at the Hotel NH Collection Brussels Centre

EasyHotel Brussels City Centre – Located in a prime area, EasyHotel Brussels is a budget accommodation option. We scored a good deal on this hotel and would highly recommend it. The rooms were small but clean.

Friendly staff and super helpful. Great location – quick access to the train station, grocery, sightseeing.  Book your stay at the EasyHotel Brussels City Centre

Euros are used in Belgium. You will also find credit cards and debit machines are common. At the train stations, we found that most places had credit card slots, and some accepted bills/coins.

Budgeting for Brussels

Generally speaking, Western Europe is expensive in terms of food and accommodation. But we found Brussels to be a tad cheaper than Paris or Amsterdam.

• Our hotel cost us less than $100 a night
• Most of our food was bought from the grocery store (salads, bread, and other baked items, drinks, ice cream, sandwiches). We spent 10 euros on a meal for the 2 of us, by grocery shopping. And the food was good actually, including dessert.
• Bus or train tickets cost 7 euros per person (return) – public transport
• We did book day tours or trains to nearby cities/countries and that cost was about $60- 120. We were all booked ahead of time and online.

When is the best time to visit Brussels?

Busy Tourist Months – The months of June through August are busy tourist months with a lot of summer festivals and outdoor activities. The weather is warm and sunny. It is also a busy season bringing in a lot of visitors to the country (so prices of hotels, and flights will be costly)

Off seasons is during spring and fall. The weather is NOT too warm or cold. Springtime is from March to May and the fall season is in September and October. You can score great hotel deals and tours around this time. Also fewer crowds in tourist areas.

The winter months are from November to early February when the temperature drops and gets cold. November and January may not be that bad price-wise, but December is the prime holiday month.

Christmas season – Christmas time is a GREAT time to be here and explore the holiday markets and joy. Usually, flight tickets could be expensive around this time but Christmas Markets and light events make it worth it!

Click to read : Guide to best places to visit in winter in Europe.

We visited Brussels in September – fall and offseason. You can expect it to rain every now and then during this time (and probably throughout the year). But it didn’t hinder our everyday travel plans.

Packing Tips for Brussels – What to wear in Brussels?

Here is our Europe essentials list .

• Anti-theft day pack or handbag  –  They are super essential to safeguard your belongings and are equipped with anti-cut and RFID technology. Here is what we recommend – click for the backpack AND here for the handbag .
• Light Cardigan – A light cardigan in a neutral color will match with most of the outfits. Black and beige are my favorites. LOVE this cozy cardigan, click here to find out
• Waterproof and pack-able jacket  – Carry a waterproof jacket or a trench coat to protect yourself from rains (unpredictable). Here is my favorite trench coat . Click here to shop our favorites FOR HIM & FOR HER

Based on the weather, of course, there will be slight changes in the packing list for Brussels. Here are some of the key items to carry. We have also included weather exceptions

• Pretty tops/shirts/blouses 
• Pants/jeans
• Light cardigan/jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes – Shop my faves
• Wool coat (for winter) – Shop this trendy and warm coat-jacket
• Gloves (for winter)
• Warm hat (for winter)
• Boots (for winter) – Shop these tall boots for winter

In terms of everyday clothing, Brussels is not like Paris, it is actually a very chill and relaxed place – so you can wear casuals or even shorts while exploring Belgium. The people of Belgium are open to tourists and we never had any experience with unfriendly or unwelcomed stares during our stay here.

What to buy in Brussels – Brussels Souvenirs

Let me share what we bought and how MUCH I love it! So Salil bought me a nice red sweatshirt/hoodie with Belgium written on it. I love that hoodie so much. One of my favorites. We also bought some fridge magnets and Belgium Chocolates back home.

So here is what we recommend purchasing in Brussels

• Belgium Chocolates, Sugar bombs (sweets with cream filling like raspberries)
• Comic books and related items (Tin Tin souvenirs)
• Arts like local jewelry, interior décor items, lacework
• Belgian Beer and Cigar

What to eat in Brussels

There are tons of delicious things to eat in Brussels including popular Belgian street food . Belgium Waffles are amazing (unlike the waffles we have in North America), frites and sauces are delicious.

If you have a sweet tooth, you will be sugar heaven! Desserts, Belgian Chocolates, and truffles, macarons, ice cream are yummilicous. I think I put on some extra pounds on my 7 day stay here.

Baked goods are equally delicious and you can try choco-twist, cherry cream cheese croissants, and other items from local bakeries or joints. Train stations have a line of bakeries and coffee shops so you will never go hungry.

Here is a quick cheat sheet for you

• Belgian Waffle – There are 2 types of waffles that you can try in Brussels. The original Brussels Waffles ‘gaufre de Bruxelles’ (rectangular and less sweet, I like this kind) and Liege Waffles (round and sweet).
• Mussels and Fries – Moules-Frites are a popular dish in Brussels. It is mussels with fries like the name suggests and it is made in white wine or other sauces.
• Meatballs – Meatballs are very popular here as well
• Flemish Stew – This is a POPULAR comfort food – a stew made with meat and Belgian Beer smothered to bring in rich tastes.

If you would to experience a little of everything, then try a Food Tour in Brussels. These are half-day tours, lasting 3- 4 hours or so whether you can try local cuisines with a guide in tow. Book your food tour here

There are tons of 1-2 hour Belgian chocolate-making workshops. If you love to cook and would want to experience a cooking class or workshop,   try this tour .

Conclusion: Is one day in Brussels enough? 

This is a common question, “can you see Brussels in one day?”. The answer to that is – yes and no. When we were planning our Brussels itinerary, we were only allotted one day. And in all honesty, some of the city highlights are located very close to each other like Grand Place and other attractions in the city center area. These iconic Brussels attractions can be explored in a day. 

The second half of the day can be utilized in exploring the Comic Strip or if you prefer, take a Hop-on and Hop-off sightseeing tour to visit other attractions in the city. Two days in Brussels will definitely be more comfortable and you can explore more of what the city has to offer. 

So yes the highlights of Brussels can be explored in one day, but in-depth exploration of the entire city needs additional time. 

We hope you found this post helpful in planning your one day Brussels trip and itinerary.

Additional Resources Belgium and Europe travel 

• Brussels day trip ideas –  Day trip ideas from Brussels
• Visit Dinant – Guide to visiting Dinant in Namur Belgium
• Europe Planning – Guide to planning a trip to Europe
• Europe one week itinerary samples explore Austria Belgium to Switzerland and beyond – 27 European Itinerary samples to craft your own
• Winter sun destinations – Winter sun destinations for December to February
• Best Winter Boots for Europe – Our top picks for winter boots
• Best Walking Shoes for Europe – Comfortable walking shoes in Europe

Here are additional Itineraries and travel guides for European cities

• Paris 

Pin – 1 day in Brussels Itinerary – What to see in Brussels in one day?

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Home » Travel » Destinations » One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors

One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors

I came to Brussels for three specific reasons: chocolate, waffles, and the Grand Place. I was not disappointed. Luckily, one day in Brussels is just enough time to explore the highlights and fill up on Belgium’s famous food and drink.

I designed this custom map and Brussels itinerary to showcase my favorite parts of the city for first time visitors. If you have more than one day in Brussels, check out the bonus tips at the end of the post!

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

How to See Brussels in a Day

— Know Before You Go — Where to Stay in Brussels — The Best Time to Take a Brussels Day Trip — One Day in Brussels Itinerary — Map of One Day in Brussels Itinerary — Other Things to do in Brussels — Where to Go After This 1 Day Brussels Itinerary

Know Before You Go

Estimated Itinerary Budget: €60 per person (excluding hotel and airfare)

Brussels uses the Euro, and you should plan to carry cash in addition to your card(s). Many places in Brussels will take card, but some restaurants and shops are cash-only. There are also places that are card-only, so pay close attention to the signs near the entrance!

For dining out, €15-20 will be enough for a standard meal and a beverage. Brussels is pricey when it comes to food, but frites aren’t the only budget-friendly option. Check out this roundup of cheap eats in Brussels for recommendations beyond doner kebabs and hamburgers.

Getting to Brussels

If you’re flying to Brussels, you’ll land at Brussels Airport, which is northeast of the city center. From there, you can take an IC train to Bruxelles-Midi central train station. Tickets are €7 – €9, and the journey takes approximately 35 minutes.

If you’re traveling via train, you’ll want to get off at Bruxelles-Midi. Eurostar routes typically terminate at this station. Fortunately, the city center is only a 25 minute walk from here, so you can skip public transit and start exploring Brussels right away.

Other Transport Tips

• Brussels is well-connected by public transit, including metro lines, trams, and buses.
• The fare system is quite simple, as all transit options take the same ticket. Use one of the GO machines inside the metro stations (and some bus and tram stops) to buy a one-hour ticket. Pro tip: to navigate the on-screen menu, turn the dial on the machine to select your ticket option.
• You can also buy tickets when entering the bus or tram for a slightly higher price. Be sure to validate your ticket in the machine after purchasing it.
• Train stations also have ticket machines that operate in multiple languages. Pay attention to the machine’s labels, however, as some are chip-card only.

Belgium has three official languages: French, German, and Dutch. However, most folks in Brussels are fluent in French.

Fortunately for English-speakers, many service industry workers are conversational in English. As with most major cities, the further you get from touristy areas, the less likely it is that people speak fluent English.

If you don’t have Google Translate installed on your phone with the French dictionary downloaded, do that before you leave.

One day in Brussels doesn’t require too much knowledge of French, but knowing some words and phrases will help immensely. People will be far more inclined to help if you start the interaction in French.

Here are a few French phrases you should know, with some very rough pronunciations:

• Hello – Bonjour  (bon-zhor)
• Yes – Oui (we)
• No – Non (no)
• Please –  S’il vous plaît (see voo play)
• Thank You – Merci (mare-see)
• Pardon Me – Excusez-moi (excuse-ay mwah)
• Do you speak English? – Parlez-vous Anglais? (parlay-voo An-glay?)
• I would like – Je voudrais (zyuh voo-dray)
• Water – Eau (oh)
• One – Un/Une* (uhn/oone)

*French is a gendered language, so the thing you’re referring to will determine how you say “one”. Unless you really dive into the language, just stick to using “un”.

Combining these 10 words and phrases will be enough for one day in Brussels. But if you’re planning to stay longer, I recommend learning the rest of these essential travel phrases .

Here are a few pointers to help you gracefully navigate the city:

• Always greet the shopkeeper and restaurant staff when entering a building. A simple bonjour is great and will be reciprocated by the staff.
• Tipping is not necessary, as restaurants include service charges in the bill (even if it’s not clear on the receipt). However, it’s also acceptable to leave a couple Euros.
• Use caution when crossing at zebra walks with no signal (i.e. pedestrian cross ways). Cars do not always give pedestrians the right of way, so wait at the edge of the cross way until traffic halts.
• If you venture out to the city center before 8am, you’ll encounter a lot of garbage. Bright pink trash bags, broken glass, and tumbleweeds of paper products will cover the streets and the Grand Place. If you’re planning to take photos during blue hour, be prepared to dodge the street sweepers.

My Favorite Belgium Travel Guidebooks

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

• Rick Steves Belgium: Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp & Ghent
• Lonely Planet: Pocket Bruges & Brussels
• DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Belgium and Luxembourg

Where to Stay in Brussels

If you only have one day in Brussels, it’s best to stay near the city center . There are options for all budgets, ranging from affordable yet well-appointed hostels to high-end lodgings overlooking the palace.

I stayed at The Dominican , a beautiful historic hotel just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Place.

The price was very affordable considering the location, and the room was spacious and comfortable. Downstairs, there is an elegant lounge and dining area perfect for evening meals and drinks. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy a cappuccino in the leafy courtyard before heading out for a day of sightseeing.

There are also great VRBO apartment rental options in the city, especially in the Quartier des Quais and Saint-Gilles districts.

The Best Time to Take a Brussels Day Trip

From flower festivals to Christmas markets, there are plenty of reasons to spend a day in Brussels. Here are some seasonal highlights to help you plan your Brussels day trip:

• Zinneke Parade:  Held on even-numbered years in May, the Zinneke Parade is a multicultural celebration of Brussels’ people, and includes performances by city locals.
• Ommegang:  This annual June festival feels straight out of the Renaissance, with jugglers, folk games, and puppet performances.
• Flower Carpet:  Held every other August, the Flower Carpet stretches across the Grand Place, and displays a different cultural theme every year.
• Christmas Market:  The Grand Place hosts one of Europe’s best Christmas markets, with traditional stalls selling crafts, food, and mulled wine.

One Day in Brussels Itinerary

Porte de halle (halle gate).

Exit Bruxelles-Midi and head east on Rue Théodore Verhaegen. This road runs through the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, which is full of lovely residences and cafes. Take a left on Chaussée de Waterloo and walk north.

You’ll shortly arrive at Porte de Halle, a 14th-century city gate that also contains a history museum. The fortifications make the gate resemble a small castle sitting on a major road. Depending on your interest in Brussels’ history and the time you arrive, you could pop into the museum.

Opening hours are 9:30 – 17:00 Monday – Thursday and 10:00 – 18:00 Saturday & Sunday. Admission is €7, and you can also climb the battlements for a view.

From Halle Gate, head northeast towards the Palais de Justice. This courthouse is massive, with towering pillars and impossibly high ceilings. Sadly, they were renovating the building during my visit, but hopefully you’ll have better luck!

Palais d’Egmont

From the Courthouse, walk north on the Rue aux Laines to Egmont palace. There are no royal residents occupying these halls. Instead, Belgium uses this opulent palace to host important guests and international conferences.

Enjoy the manicured grounds and take a rest in front of the fountain if needed.

Mont des Arts

From the Palais d’Egmont, head northwest up the Rue des Petits Carmes. Take a left on the Rue de Namur and go towards the Koningsplein, Brussels’ original royal palace.

From there, head west up the Rue Montagne de la Cour, which will bring you to an area overlooking the Mont des Arts and the city center.

The Mont des Arts is one of Brussels’ most iconic places, with a long floral garden and views of the city hall tower. The cube-shaped glass building adds a modern element to the area’s traditional architecture.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, head through the garden path towards the city center.

RELATED: One Day in Bruges Itinerary + Walking Tour

City Center

Just west of the Mont des Arts is the main hub of Brussels. However, before you get absorbed into the shops and cafes, stay on the outskirts for a glimpse of the Manneken Pis.

Brussels has three “pis” (i.e. urinating) statues throughout the old town, but this little boy is the most famous of them all. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a crowd blocking a narrow alley. Not being a fan of mass groups of people, I admired the Mannekin Pis from afar and skipped the photo.

If you want to see all of the Pis statues during your one day in Brussels, try this rhyming scavenger hunt from The Travel Medley.

Grand Place

Just three blocks north of the famous urinating child is the Grand Place. I’d seen photos of the area before my visit, but I was still completely blown away at the grandeur of it all. I’m a sucker for giant, intricately detailed buildings, and the Grand Place did not disappoint.

The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its crown jewel is Brussels’ Town Hall. Technically over 600 years old (the original was burned down in 1695 but was quickly rebuilt), the hall is open for limited guided tours .

If you time your visit just right, you may be able to squeeze this into your itinerary. I was content to admire the facade.

Other landmarks in the area include the House of the Dukes of Brabant and the King’s House/Breadhouse. The open square hosts festivals throughout the year, including the famous flower carpet display  held every other August. During our visit, there was a rousing handball match complete with giant dolls cheering on the players!

Brunch/Lunch

If you only have one day in Brussels, you’d be crazy not to eat as many waffle-based dishes as possible. Peck 47 and Mokafe are both excellent options for brunch/lunch in the city center.

The brunch menu at Peck 47 includes multiple savory waffle options with perfectly poached eggs, including The Drunken Sailor (pictured above).

Mokafe is a traditional Belgian restaurant with a massive menu of classics like quiche and fruit waffles. If you’re really short on time and only plan to eat one meal in Brussels, I’d go with Mokafe.

Brussels Stock Exchange

Once you’ve eaten your fill, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets. You can peer into the restaurants and pop into the shops for browsing (or buying chocolate for the road).

As you meander, don’t miss the Brussels Stock Exchange, which is a favorite hangout for revelers on the weekends.

Palais de Bruxelles

Double back southeast through the Grand Place to be amazed all over again. Make your way to the Rue de l’Hôpital and continue south towards the traffic circle. Walk up the Rue Bodenbroek, where you’ll see the Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon.

Just past the church, take a left on the Rue de la Régence. You’ll see the Konigsplein up ahead, and just past it on the right is the Palais de Bruxelles.

From this direction, you’ll first see the Palais du Coudenburg, which houses a museum and archaeological dig site. Head right for a frontal view of the palace.

If you’re spending one day in Brussels in summer, you can enter the palace free of charge Tuesday-Sunday from late July through the end of August. Queues get quite long, so prepare to flex your itinerary if you’d like to go inside for a tour.

Directly opposite the palace gates is a sizeable park. Like the Grand Place, the Parc de Bruxelles hosts festivals and events throughout the year. During our visit, they were setting up for a carnival!

After you stroll through the park, exit via the top-left side to see the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, where Belgium’s royal weddings take place.

Cinquantenaire

The walk to the Cinquantenaire is a refreshing change from the historic city center. As you head east down the Rue de la Loi, you’ll pass a number of modern governmental buildings, including multiple EU offices.

This part of Brussels has a completely different feel from the rest of the city, which makes approaching the Cinquantenaire even more intriguing.

After you pass the fun rainbow crosswalk, spend some time meandering around the park. If it’s summer, there may be festivals or other special events scattered across the green spaces. There was a board game festival during our visit, which was fun to browse but made photographing the famous archway quite challenging!

If you’re tracking well on time, stop into the Art & History Museum on the right side of the arch to learn more about Belgium’s past.

Once you’re finished admiring the area, pass through the arch and enter the Merode Metro station. Buy a metro ticket using the GO machine, and hop on the  #1 or #5 tram to De Brouckere.

Save me for later!

If you only have one day in Brussels, make sure you dine at Fin de Siècle. Despite being one of the most famous and well-regarded restaurants in Brussels, the atmosphere feels far more casual and homey.

You’ll find the food menu written on the large chalkboard near the bar (pro tip: take a photo of the menu to browse at your table). There’s plenty of delectable Belgian fare like rich Carbonnade beef stew, but you’ll also find other seasonal European dishes.

Note that it used to be cash-only, but I believe they started accepting card payments in 2020.

Galeries Royale

If you opted for Mokafe at lunch, you’ve already visited the Galeries Royale. However, the area really shines in the evening (see what I did there).

Though some of the shops will be closed, there are plenty of hidden surprises in these glamorous halls. We stumbled upon a jazz trio playing outside a champagne bar, and hearing the music echoing through the Galeries made for a special moment.

The Galeries Royale is also a must see during the Brussels Christmas Market. In late November, you’ll find hundreds of golden baubles hanging from the high ceilings, turning the passageway into a holiday masterpiece. The glass shopfronts also put on beautiful Christmas displays.

Shopping in City Center

Nothing settles a full stomach like a mini shopping spree and a late night snack. It would be madness to wrap up a Brussels itinerary without making time for chocolate, frites, and more waffles!

If you’re looking for excellent chocolate at a decent price, head to Leonidas. They have a wide selection of treats at the counter (including ice cream), or you can opt for a box assortment.

Pierre Marcolini is the haute chocolatier of Brussels, with inventive flavors like yuzu and cayenne pepper. In my experience, the quality justifies the high price tag.

Enjoy Belgian Waffles and Frites

Assuming you still have room for more food, finish off the evening with some waffles and/or frites.

Friterie Tabora and Los Churros & Waffle are located right next to each other, and both offer my favorite version of their respective Belgian street food. Friterie Tabora has over 30 sauces to top your frites, from classic mayo to sweet and savory curry.

As you might imagine, the waffles from Los Churros have a churro-like texture to them. If that’s not enough culinary magic to convince you, adding toppings like chocolate and banana make the waffles mind-blowingly delicious.

Map for One Day in Brussels Itinerary

Click here to view the full interactive map!

Have More Than One Day in Brussels?

If you have some extra time to spend in Brussels, here are a few places to add to your itinerary:

• The Atomium : this architectural marvel of metal and spheres is somewhat far from the city center, but the views and uniqueness make it worth the trek.  Grab your skip the line ticket to save time!
• Chateau de Laeken: the official residence of the Belgian royal family is just up the street from the Atomium and boasts beautiful grounds, though the interior is closed to visitors for most of the year.
• Museum of Natural Sciences (Museum voor Natuurwetenschappen): if there’s rain in the forecast, pop into this museum and spend time in the massive dinosaur exhibit.

Where to Go After This 1 day Brussels Itinerary

• Bruges: Take an hour train ride west and spend  one day in Bruges , a fairy tale town with charming Flemish architecture. Book your day trip from Brussels online!
• Amsterdam:  Hop on a train to this gorgeous canal city, and enjoy 2 days in Amsterdam wandering the pretty neighborhoods and impressive museums.
• Paris: It’s less than 2 hours to the City of Light by train, where you can explore the best of Paris in 4 days .
• London:  Take a speedy Eurostar train to St. Pancras station, and spend  4 days in London  doing some sightseeing and uncovering hidden gems.

Brussels is far more than Belgium’s political and financial capital. Between its impressive architecture, delicious food, and charming streets, this city has something for everybody. If you’re planning a trip to Belgium or looking for a weekend break in Europe, I highly recommend spending at least one day in Brussels!

Still wondering what to do in Brussels in one day? Share your questions in the comments below!

19 thoughts on “One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors”

This brussels itinerary was amazing! I’m thinking of going to Brussels for 2 days and will definitely be using your guide to help plan my trip.

Thanks Jesselyn! It’s even better if you have 2 days, because you won’t be so rushed to see everything. Hope you have a great time in Brussels 🙂

Thank you for this itinerary. My family is considering a day trip to Brussels from London. My youngest is 8 years; how much walking is this itinerary?

Hello Jennifer! There is a significant amount of walking involved in this itinerary, particularly if you walk to the Cinquantenaire. All in all, I’d say it’s around 25,000 steps. However, if you aren’t interested in seeing the EU buildings, you could easily take the metro there and back (instead of walking there). Your kids might also prefer to see the Atomium, so you could swap it in for the Cinquantenaire and take the metro there and back. Hope you have a great trip!

Thank you for taking the time to make a map of your spots! Most travel blogs don’t do this, and it is much appreciated and helpful!

Thanks for the feedback, Rachel! Having the map is a real time-saver when traveling, especially if you add it to your Google Maps app before the trip.

Thank you for the information. I am going to Brussels for 4 days the end of Nov and plan at least 1-2 days in Brussels and a day trip to Bruges and possibly Paris. Trying to fit in as much as I can. I can sleep when I get home. I am going to take a look at The Dominican as possible lodging.

That sounds like a great plan, Theresa! The Dominican is a great option for a short stay in Brussels, because it’s close to the Grand Place and not far from a metro station. Enjoy your visit 🙂

Hi, can I know how to get from Brussels International Airport to the city centre (Grand Place)? I’ve searched for it but I can’t find the exact/accurate answer yet 🙁 oh, not to forget, is it November a good time and low season to be visited ? Thank you 😉

Hello Fariz! You can catch an IC train from the airport to Bruxelles Midi. The train stops at Bruxelles Central on its way there, which is a 5 minute walk from the Grand Place. The IC train runs very frequently (about every 10 minutes) and costs around 12 euros. As for visiting Brussels in November, that is definitely off-season. However, they do open the Christmas markets on the last Friday in November, so crowds will pick up at the very end of the month. Have a great trip!

Do you know how far in advance one would need to book Eurostar tickets from Ashford to Brussels? We will be in Kent in August and want to take a day trip but wanted to know if we could be spontaneous with that, or if I should book tickets now. Thanks!!

Great question, Ilm! Tickets to Brussels rarely sell out (unless there’s a major festival or event). However, they do get noticably more expensive the closer you are to the departure date. You could probably be spontaneous and get a seat, but it might cost you an extra £50 per person!

Hi Chelsea aka @portablewife. I’m very happy you shared your map. It helped me a lot during my day trip to Brussels. I hope many travellers will benefit from this too. Now I’m on my way back to Amsterdam. Thanks again!

Thanks, Emy! I’m glad you had a fun trip to Brussels. It’s a wonderful city for a day trip!

Thank you. This was most helpful. I backpacked Europe in 1989 and although I kept a journal, there are many things I left our or didn’t document. Your blog helped me remember and bring it back to life. Thank you!

Happy I could bring back some fond memories of your trip, Tam!

Hi Chelsea, I enjoyed reading the one-day Brussels itinerary! 🙂 My sister and I are arriving in Brussels (from California) on a Sunday at 0730 – shall we stay overnight in Brussels after all-day sightseeing OR just deposit our luggage in locker (Midi station), do all-day sightseeing then take train to Bruges? Is Brussels worth an expensive overnight accommodation? Keep traveling and sharing your experiences – i love your style of writing and photography

Thank you, Maria-Fe! If you’re arriving at 7:30am and plan to continue on to Bruges, I’d suggest storing your luggage and traveling to Bruges that night. Although hotels in Bruges will probably be more expensive, it’s good to explore the town early in the morning before the day trippers arrive.

Thanks a lot for this!! I literally used this to plan my entire day (had about 8hrs in the city) and I feel satisfied of not having missed out on anything.

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Bruges & Brussels in 4 Days: A Belgian Cultural Journey

April 22, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 4-day adventure through the historic and cultural wonders of Bruges and Brussels. Begin your journey in Brussels, where you'll marvel at the whimsical Manneken Pis, admire the grandeur of the Brussels Town Hall, and stroll through the UNESCO-listed Grand-Place. Delve into history at St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, and celebrate comic art at the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Day two continues in Brussels with an artistic morning at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, followed by the charm of Place du Grand Sablon and the panoramic views at Mont-des-Arts. Experience the miniature continent at Mini-Europe and the iconic Atomium's modern architecture. Transition to the romantic city of Bruges on day three, starting with the serene Minnewater, the historic Beguinage 'Ten Wijngaerde', and the impressive collections at the Groeninge Museum. Cross the picturesque Boniface Bridge and visit the towering Church of Our Lady and the Sint-Salvatorskathedraal. Conclude your trip on day four with the panoramic city views from the Belfry of Bruges, indulge in the Bruges Beer Experience, and wander through the Historic Centre of Brugge and The Markt. Don't miss the sweet finale at Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum. This itinerary promises a blend of art, history, and Belgian culture, all wrapped up in a memorable 4-day package.

• Day 1: Unveiling Brussels' Iconic Charms

Manneken Pis

Begin your Brussels adventure with a quick visit to the whimsical Manneken Pis, a small yet famous bronze sculpture that has become an emblem of the city's irreverent spirit. Although the visit is brief, this cheeky little boy provides a memorable start to your exploration.

Attraction Info

• Manneken Pis 1000 Brussels Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 5-15 minutes
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Brussels Town Hall

Next, step into the grandeur of the Brussels Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece located in the heart of the city. With its opulent rooms and rich history, the Town Hall offers a glimpse into the city's prestigious past and is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

• Grand Place 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open on Mon-Fri,8:30am-5:30pm;Closed on Sat-Sun

Grand-Place

A short stroll away lies the Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the cultural centerpiece of Brussels. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the striking Town Hall, the square is a testament to the city's golden age and is the perfect spot to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

• Grand-Place, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels

Continue your journey through Brussels' history at the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, a majestic church that stands as a testament to the city's religious heritage. With its stunning stained glass windows and serene ambiance, the cathedral offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.

• Pl. Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Open from 8:00am-6:00pm

Belgian Comic Strip Center

Conclude your day with an imaginative escape to the Belgian Comic Strip Center, where the colorful world of comics comes to life. Celebrating the country's rich comic book history, the museum is a treasure trove of art, storytelling, and nostalgia that will delight visitors of all ages.

• 20 rue des Sables, B-1000 Brussels
• Open from 1/2-6/30,Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 9/1-6/30,Mon;Open from 7/1-8/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 9/1-12/23,Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 12/24-12/31,Tue-Sun,10:00am-3:30pm;Closed all day on 1/1;Closed during Christmas，In July and August the museum is open on Mondays (except 21/8 and 28/8).

Where to Stay Tonight

Sleep well youth hostel, best western hotel royal centre.

• Day 2: Art, Squares, and Architectural Wonders of Brussels

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium enterance

Begin your second day in Brussels with a cultural deep dive at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. As the morning light filters through the grand windows, spend a couple of hours admiring an extensive collection of art that spans from the Old Masters to modern pieces. The museum's serene atmosphere and impressive exhibits provide an inspiring start to the day, nestled in the heart of Brussels at Rue de la Régence.

• Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 2-6 hour
• Open on Tue-Fri,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,11:00am-6:00pm

Place du Grand Sablon

Next, stroll over to the charming Place du Grand Sablon, a mere stone's throw from the museum. This picturesque square is a treasure trove of antique shops, chocolatiers, and weekend markets. Spend an hour soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, perhaps indulging in a Belgian chocolate treat or simply enjoying the elegant architecture that surrounds you.

• 1000 Brussels, Belgium

Mont-des-Arts

Continue your cultural journey at Mont-des-Arts, a historic site that serves as a cultural hub in Brussels. Here, you can spend an hour exploring the landscaped garden with its stunning views of the city and an array of significant cultural institutions. It's a perfect spot to capture memorable photos and to reflect on the city's rich artistic heritage.

• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

Mini-Europe

As the afternoon unfolds, make your way to Mini-Europe, a unique park that offers a whistle-stop tour of Europe in miniature. In just an hour, you can wander past intricately crafted replicas of the continent's most famous landmarks. It's an entertaining and educational experience that provides a fun contrast to the morning's artistic pursuits.

• Av. du Football 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Open from 3/9-6/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 7/1-8/31,9:30am-7:00pm;Open from 9/1-9/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 10/1-12/23,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-5:00pm on 12/24,Tue;Open from 12/25-12/30,Mon, Wed-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-5:00pm on 12/31,Tue;Open from 1/1-1/5,Wed-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 1/6-3/7

Cap off the day with a visit to the iconic Atomium, a symbol of modern architecture and an emblem of Brussels. This futuristic structure, representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, offers panoramic views of the city. Spend your final hour of the day marveling at the Atomium's shimmering spheres and the exhibitions housed within, reflecting on a day well spent amidst the cultural and architectural marvels of Brussels.

• Pl. de l'Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm，ADAPTED OPENING HOURS Closed from 22 to 26 January 2024 included: Annual maintenance of the elevator 21 March 2024: From noon - 6pm 20 June 2024: From noon - 6pm 3 October 2024: From noon - 6pm 24 and 31 December 2024: From 10am to 4pm (ticket office closing and last entry in the building at 3pm) 25 December 2024 and 1st January 2025: From noon to 6pm (ticket office closing and last entry in the building at 5:30pm) *The Atomium may close earlier for exceptional reasons.

Hotel le Centenaire Brussels Expo

Ibis brussels expo atomium.

• Day 3: Bruges' Historic Heart and Artistic Soul

Begin your third day in Bruges with a serene morning stroll around the enchanting Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love. This idyllic spot is perfect for embracing the tranquility of Bruges before the city awakens. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic buildings, Minnewater offers a picturesque setting that captures the essence of romance in Bruges. Spend an hour here, and let the calming waters set a peaceful tone for the day ahead.

• Minnewater, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Beguinage "Ten Wijngaerde"

Just a short walk from Minnewater, step back in time at the Beguinage "Ten Wijngaerde", a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the lives of the beguines, women who dedicated their lives to God without retiring from the world. Spend an hour exploring the church and the historic site, where the white-washed facades and tranquil courtyards tell stories of devotion and simplicity from centuries past.

• Begijnhof 30, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open from 6:30am-6:30pm

Groeninge Museum

Continue your cultural journey at the Groeninge Museum, where you'll spend an hour immersed in the rich artistic heritage of Bruges. The museum showcases an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian paintings, including works by the famous Flemish Primitives. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts eager to delve into the city's vibrant art scene and its historical significance.

• Dijver 12, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open on Mon-Tue, Thu-Sun,9:30am-5:00pm

Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)

A short walk from the museum, discover the charming Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug), one of the most photogenic spots in Bruges. Although it's a brief 20-minute visit, the bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding medieval buildings and the canal, making it a perfect spot for those quintessential Bruges photographs.

• Groeninge 6, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 20-40 minutes
• Open from 7:00am-8:00pm

Church of Our Lady

Next, visit the Church of Our Lady, which stands as a testament to Bruges' Gothic architectural prowess. Spend half an hour marveling at its towering spire and the artistry within, including the famous sculpture by Michelangelo. The church's grandeur and the art it houses are sure to leave a lasting impression.

• Mariastraat, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open on Mon-Sat,9:30am-5:00pm;Open on Sun,1:30pm-5:00pm

Sint-Salvatorskathedraal

Conclude your day's exploration at the Sint-Salvatorskathedraal, another architectural gem that towers over the city's skyline. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by its rich history and beautiful interior. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and the sense of peace that this historic church offers to every visitor.

• Sint-Salvatorskoorstraat 8, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open on Mon-Fri,10:00am-1:00pm,2:00pm-5:30pm;Open on Sat,10:00am-1:00pm,2:00pm-3:30pm;Open on Sun,2:00pm-5:00pm

Boutique Hotel de Castillion - Small Elegant Family Hotel

Hotel het gheestelic hof by cw hotel collection.

• Day 4: Bruges' Historic Charm and Chocolate Dreams

Belfry of Bruges

Kicking off the final day of our Bruges adventure, we ascend into history at the Belfry of Bruges. Towering over Markt Square, this medieval bell tower offers a panoramic view of the city's rooftops and cobblestone streets. Dedicate an hour to climb the 366 steps, and you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking vista and the melodic chime of the carillon bells, a true symphony of the city.

• Markt 7, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 4/1-11/12,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 11/3-12/25,Mon-Fri, Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/3-12/25,Sat,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 12/26-12/30,9:00am-8:00pm;Open from 12/31-3/31,Mon-Fri, Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 12/31-3/31,Sat,9:00am-8:00pm，December 24 and 31: Open 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Ascension Day: Closed in the afternoon.

Bruges Beer Experience

After the heights of the Belfry, immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Belgian brews at the Bruges Beer Experience. Located just a short stroll from the Belfry, this interactive museum and bar is a haven for hop enthusiasts. Spend an hour exploring the exhibits, and don't miss the chance to sample some of the finest beers Bruges has to offer, each with its own unique story and taste.

• Breidelstraat 3, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open from 10:00am-6:30pm

Historic Centre of Brugge

Next, wander through the Historic Centre of Brugge, where time seems to stand still among the monuments and picturesque squares. Allow two hours to meander through the UNESCO World Heritage site, soaking in the Gothic architecture and the serene canals that have earned Bruges the nickname 'Venice of the North'. It's a living history book where every cobblestone tells a tale.

• Bruges 8000 Belgium
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Just a heartbeat away from the historic center, The Markt, Bruges' vibrant main square, beckons. Spend an hour here basking in the lively atmosphere, surrounded by colorful facades and the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages. It's the perfect spot to people-watch, grab a bite, or simply relax under the watchful gaze of the statues that stand as sentinels to Bruges' past.

• Markt, Bruges 8000, Belgium

Choco-Story, Chocolate Museum

Conclude your Bruges journey on a sweet note at Choco-Story, the Chocolate Museum. A mere whisper away from The Markt, this museum is a chocolate lover's paradise. Dedicate an hour to uncover the secrets of chocolate making, from ancient Aztec rituals to contemporary Belgian techniques, and treat your taste buds to the rich, indulgent flavors of artisanal chocolates.

• Wijnzakstraat 2, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
• Open from 10:00am-6:00pm

Hotel Biskajer by CW Hotel Collection - Adults Only

Martin's relais.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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6 replies to this topic

To save on moving around (or to fit Antwerp into your schedule), you could stay in Ghent and do a day trip to Bruges , as the train trip is about 30 minutes each way. But if you want to experience Ghent without the crowds, be there before 10am and stay after 3pm. My trip was in March, so daylight hours might have influenced this timing.

In Brussels I stayed at the Pillows Brussels - very central. Nice hotel.

In Ghent I stayed at the Novotel - good touristy location, but can be noisy at weekends. Most accomm is a decent distance from the train station (about 10-15€), so factor that into your plans.

In Bruges I stayed at The Townhouse BNB - good location, great breakfast, steep flight of stairs to rooms, which didn’t bother me but might others, and 1 night at a BNB - Nuit Blanche, just to experience this medieval delight.

Going to try to go to Bruges first in order to avoid being there on the weekend.

Oh sorry, my error - Bruges

ISBN 978-178-004-128-5

There is also a website for free walking tours both in Bruges & Ghent http://www.legendstours.be/en/ghent/

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• Thursday April 25, 2024

Pianist Pietro Bonfilio was born in a Scansano, a village in the Tuscan hills of Maremma in Italy. He’ll play a recital in Ettelbruck on Saturday 27 April 2024.   Photo: Ionut Rusu

Check out a music festival, performances by an Italian pianist or a chamber music group, sip wine in Clervaux, taste chocolates in Luxembourg City, network with entrepreneurs, fix your broken gadgets, see a Ukrainian documentary, buy flowers or sign up for a visit to Brussels--here are 10 things to do in the coming days and weeks.

Sign up for a trip to Brussels

Category: International business 🗓 Now until Friday 26 April📍online

The Finland Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg is organising a trip to Brussels on Tuesday 7 May 2024. Registration closes Friday 26 April. The visit to Brussels will include a visit to the European Parliament and a programme at the Finnish embassy in Brussels (with the introductions of the permanent representation of Finland in the European Union, the official representation of Nato, the ambassador of Finland to Belgium and Luxembourg, and networking drinks at the embassy). .

Entrepreneurship of all kinds

Category: Conference 🗓 Wednesday 24 April📍BGL BNP Paribas

“Entrepreneurship is first and foremost a state of mind that each of us applies to different aspects of our lives.” Organised by The Network and the Fédération des Femmes Cheffes d'Entreprise au Luxembourg, this free event will allow you to discover how to put entrepreneurship to work in your life and to connect with like-minded professionals. .

Screening of 20 Days in Mariupol

Category: Cinema 🗓 Wednesday 24 April📍Ciné Utopia

Cineast and the Lukraine association are organising a screening of the Academy Award-winning documentary “20 Days in Mariupol,” which was filmed in the besieged Ukrainian city as it was destroyed by Russians at the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. “This is painful to watch,” says Associated Press reporter Mystyslav Chernov, “but it must be painful to watch.” .

From bean to bar: Chocolate-tasting tour

Category: Gastronomy 🗓 Thursday 25 April📍Lëtzebuerg City Museum

This event will “delight the taste buds” as well as raise awareness of the cultural, ethical and environmental aspects of chocolate production. Participants will be “invited to savour each bite mindfully” and enjoy the “sensory experience, including the taste, texture and aroma of the chocolate.” .

Flower market

Category: Gardening 🗓 Friday 26 April📍Beaufort

Spring is here and nature is waking up. Pick up some flowers from the Beaufort flower market to brighten up your day. .

Catch Music Festival

Category: Music 🗓 Friday 26 April to Sunday 28 April📍Bonnevoie

Everybody--connoisseurs, music lovers, curious people and beginners--is welcome to share the joy of making and listening to music during this festival. It’s an “unmissable” chamber music event that gathers both established local musicians and young emerging talents. .

Recital by Pietro Bonfilio

Category: Music 🗓 Saturday 27 April📍Hollerich Luxembourg

Enjoy an evening of classical music performed by Italian pianist Pietro Bonfilio at the Altrimenti. .

Wine market in Clervaux

Category: Gastronomy 🗓 Saturday 27 April to Sunday 28 April📍Clervaux

Taste wines from the Moselle Valley and enjoy music at the Cliärrwer Wäistrooss, organised by the Union Commerciale de Clervaux. .

Repair Café in Strassen

Category: Gastronomy 🗓 Sunday 28 April📍Centre Barblé

At no charge whatsoever, the volunteers of the Repair Café are willing to look at your malfunctioning electronica, machinery and other assorted gadgetry and attempt to fix it. Take your broken stuff to the Paul Barblè Cultural Centre in Strassen to try your luck. .

Chamber music performance

Category: Music 🗓 Sunday 28 April📍Ettelbruck

The chamber music group Kammerata Luxembourg will play pieces by Josef Suk, Bohuslav Martinů and Antonin Dvořák. .

Tickets & passes

The best way to explore a city without breaking the bank? Buy discount passes. These clever travel companions offer access to the most unique attractions. Not only will you save money, but also time, as all the hard work is done for you. You can just dive into the fantastic offerings carefully selected for visitors seeking added value like yourself!

The Brussels Card

Get the most out of Europe's vibrant capital with the money-saving  Brussels Card . In addition to free entry to 49 museums, you also get discounts on attractions, for guided tours, in shops, restaurants and bars. It's convenient too, with a free app and maps. There's even optional extras for public transport and access to the Atomium. All this in just one card!

The Museum Pass

Have you heard of the Museum Pass ? It's the most extensive museum ticket in the country. It gives you a year's access to more than 240 Belgian museums, including 45 in Brussels. For just €59, you can delve into countless fascinating museum collections and discover the best exhibitions of the moment. It's a real godsend for those who love outing! 

The Brussels Art Nouveau Pass

Thanks to the  Art Nouveau Pass , you'll discover Brussels' Art Nouveau masterpieces for a bargain price! The pass not only makes your visit cheaper, it is also user-friendly. It gives you a key that opens the doors of three Art Nouveau sites of your choice over a 9-month period. What's more, you also get discounts on various guided tours around Brussels and in Art Nouveau shops and cafes .

Tram Experience

Enjoy a unique gastronomic journey through Brussels. Climb aboard the Tram Experience and taste the best of contemporary Belgian cuisine.

Say goodbye to long queues thanks to our ticketing services

Planning a night out? Buy your theatre or concert tickets now! Feeling spontaneous? You’ll find half-price tickets on the day of the event on Last-Minute Tickets. Browse at the agenda or check out the last-minute tickets on offer that day.

Check out what's happening in Brussels right now.

Last-Minute Tickets

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