tour up site brussels

LOCATION /  Brussels, Belgium

CLIENT / Atenor Group s.a. (Build Up s.a.)

PARTNER /   Ateliers Lion 

AREA /  82,000 sqm above ground 

              Tower : 40,000 sqm

              Terraced building : 13,000 sqm

              Offices : 29,000 sqm

PROGRAM /   mixed use

PROJECT / 2005 - 2009

STATUS /  Built 2014

UP-Site is a new mixed quarter consisting of 370 homes divided between 'terraced buildings' and a new high-rise block ‘UP-Tower’ that is 140 metres tall, as well as four office buildings. The complex, which is crossed by a pedestrian walkway, is built around a garden giving access to the public open space and the banks of the canal. A redesigned and planted public space is developing along the quayside, along with shops and terraces. The prestige apartments offer space, terraces and exceptional views for the residents. The offices, in turn, are divided into four buildings along Quai de Willebroek with a total area of 29,000 square metres spread over eight floors. They offer every amenity to future occupants and easy access.Through its urban planning, architectural and engineering choices, the project affirms a desire to be part of a sustainable development approach.

• Mission & values
• Corporate Governance Charter
• Shareholding structure
• Organisation
• Regulated information – Transparency
• Regulated information – Joint Shares
• Remuneration policy
• Supplier Code of Conduct
• ATENOR Articles of Association
• Atenor share price
• Key figures
• Acquisition of own shares
• Financial calendar
• Financial results
• Annual financial reports
• Debenture loans
• Capital increase
• General Meetings of Shareholders
• In portfolio
• Press releases
• 2023 Sustainability report
• All the projects

Back to projects

Completed in 2014

Residential units: Tower: 39.800 m² - Villas-apartements: 13.275 m² - Office spaces: 29.690 m² - Retail: 1.650 m²

Ateliers Lion Architectes - Urbanistes (Paris) en A2RC Architects (Brussel)

Project owner

Build Up s.a. (100% ATENOR)

Voir tous les communiqués

24 May 2024

Interim statement for Q1 – 2024

26 March 2024

Atenor – General Meetings of Shareholders

13 March 2024

Atenor announces that permits have now been granted for 359 sustainable apartments in Mons, Belgium

welcome to tour & taxis

“ situated in the heart of brussels, tour & taxis is more than just a historic landmark. it's a crossroads of experiences , art and discoveries . once a central customs facility, this iconic site has been reinvented to offer visitors a deep dive into brussels culture. from art exhibitions and local markets to gourmet restaurants and cultural events , tour & taxis is the must-visit destination to experience brussels in all its glory. ”, what's going on .

We have summed up our next events for you.

TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION

Brussels Makers Market

Live Euro 2024 Matches at Gare Maritime

Liantis Urban Trail Brussels

Festival drepano cyt’OSE

HARRY POTTER – Visions of Magic

Summer of Tour & Taxis

Maxime Mandrake & Friends @ WOM

Cirque Nicolas Bouglione

Festival L’Afrique en Couleurs

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What exactly are you looking for ? FOOD OR DRINKS, Team Building, fun activities, coworking spaces... 

What exactly are you looking for food or drinks, team building,....

Up-Site Tower

Quai des Peniches 69

1000 Brussel

[email protected]

Lifestyle  & Services

Restaurant & Dining

Private Movie and More

Private Parking

Exceptional Apartment

Located in the Up-site tower on the waterfront, on the 38th floor is this beautiful apartment of ± 175 m²

The apartment completely in wooden floor consists of:

Trendy LUXERIOUS loft with SKYVIEW!  38Floor Akenkaai 69, 1000 Brussels,

 3 bedrooms – 2 bathrooms – 175m2 – 795.000 EUR

  - an entrance hall with cloakroom and separate guest toilet

 - very spacious bright living room with access to the southern oriented terrace

 - equipped open kitchen

 - 3 spacious bedrooms

 - 2 luxurious bathrooms (bath, shower, 1 and 2 washbasins, one with toilet)

  - a laundry/storage room and basement

 - EPC 75

The Up-site tower is offering you many prestigious services: concierge, security, restaurant, skydeck etc.

Located in the heart of Brussels, close to "Tour & Taxis",Brussels and the economic district.

Easy access to the capital's public transport (bus, tram, metro, train, ...).

AT A PHENOMENAL HEIGHT ... THE CITY AT YOUR FEET ... ON THE WATERFRONT

  More info:

Up-Site Tower, Quai des Peniches 69, 1000 Brussels Belgium. [email protected]

Up-site residential tower

A new approach to housing in Brussels: opened in 2014, the Up-site tower ‰ÛÒ 42 storeys and 140 metres high ‰ÛÒ has stunning views of the city and the Canal. It is the tallest inhabited tower in Belgium and one of the tallest in Europe. Its 251 apartments offer plenty of diversity, including one-bedroom units, penthouses and duplexes, but all have a terrace. The tower practically has its feet in the Canal, adjoins both Tour & Taxis and the Bruxelles-les-Bains site and is close to the Gare du Nord railway station. The developer has also decided to redevelop the former industrial dock located at the foot of Up-site, to create a leisure space connecting to the Canal.

Location: Quai des Péniches, 69, 1000 Brussels

caviar.archi

UP-site, Brussels – Belgium

Brussels is rather hostile to the high-rise city. So when Henri Simons, then Alderman for City Planning in the City of Brussels, put forward the idea of constructing the highest residential tower in the kingdom (140 metres high for 251 apartments spread over 41 floors) on the site of the old Galeries Anspach warehouses, opposite Tour & Taxis, the project caused much ink to flow…A look back at an architectural saga in the company of the main actors on the UP-site since the acquisition of the land in 2005 and up to its inauguration in 2014.

Project name: UP-site Address: Quai des Péniches 69, 1000 Bruxelles Assignation/Destination: Apartments Buildings, offices, spa, restaurants

Name of client: Atenor Name of architect: A2RC Architects in association with:

Name of engineers: – Stability Consultancy firm: – Special techniques Consultancy firm: – EPC Consultancy firm: – Acoustics Consultancy firm: – Healt & Safety Coordinator: – Control Agency :

Name of contractors: – Main contractor: – Professions/trades:

Project status:

Size of project: Budget:

Technical sheet of this architecture video clip Journalist : Emma C. Dessouroux Cameramen : Didier Minne – Geoffroy Minne / Kinodoc – Julien Stroïnovsky / Novsky Films

Editing : Emma C. Dessouroux / Cristina Dias Direction : Emma C. Dessouroux Production : Les Délires Productions

Translation : MDR Translations Subtitles : Les Délires Productions

Speakers : Michel Verliefden (Architect, A2RC Architects) – Stephan Sonneville (C.E.O., Atenor) – Henri Simons (Former Alderman for City Planning, City of Brussels)

FR Le projet UP-site a été initié il y a très longtemps AN The UP-site project was begun a long time ago FR par Henri Simons quand il était AN by Henri Simons when he was FR Echevin de l’Urbanisme bruxellois. AN the Brussels Alderman for City Planning. FR Il y avait la volonté de créer un PPAS AN There was a willingness to create a PPAS FR – un plan particulier d’aménagement du sol – AN – a specific land use plan – FR sur cette zone, zone qui était vouée AN for this zone, a zone destined FR à des modifications importantes. AN for significant changes. FR Il y avait les entrepôts des Galeries Anspach AN There were the Galeries Anspach warehouses FR qui étaient en vente. AN that were up for sale. FR Henri Simons a chargé le bureau BOA AN Henri Simons engaged the BOA office FR (devenu ARTER aujourd’hui – Johan Van Dessel) AN (has since become ARTER – Johan Van Dessel) FR de réaliser un PPAS sur cette zone. AN to carry out a PPAS (local land use plan) of this zone. FR On avait pensé que AN We had thought that FR dans l’ensemble du développement du quartier Nord, AN in the development of the quartier Nord as a whole, FR on pouvait travailler des bâtiments hauts. AN you could work on high buildings. FR D’autres propositions avaient été faites AN Other proposals were made FR sur d’autres terrains. AN for other plots. FR Celui-ci avait une signification particulière. AN This one was of particular significance. FR Il permettait d’avoir une perspective AN It offered a view FR vers la ville et vers le canal. AN towards the city and the canal. FR Une autre personne politique importante AN Another important politician FR qui a aidé à la prise de décision AN who helped with the decision making FR est Philippe Close, AN was Philippe Close, FR l’actuel Bourgmestre de Bruxelles. AN currently the Mayor of Brussels. FR Il a une vision très internationale de Bruxelles AN He has a very international vision for Brussels FR et il a une certaine perception de la densité AN and he has a certain feel for the density FR et de la mixité qu’il fallait pour Bruxelles. AN and the diversity that Brussels needs. FR Moi, j’ai joué mon rôle de promoteur. AN For my part I played my role of developer. FR Pendant plusieurs années, j’ai participé AN For several years I participated FR à des séminaires, à des colloques AN in seminars and conferences FR sur la place des tours à Bruxelles, AN on the place of towers in Brussels, FR sur le retour des tours dans la ville, AN on bringing back towers to the city, FR sur la reconstruction de la ville sur elle-même. AN on reconstructing the city upon itself. FR Il a fallu batailler par rapport à la Région AN We had to fight hard with the Region, FR et par rapport à l’opinion publique AN and with public opinion FR car Bruxelles n’est pas une ville où il y a des tours. AN as Brussels is not a towers city. FR Petit à petit, le pouvoir politique a, dans son ensemble, AN Little by little, five years after I bought the land, FR accepté 5 ans après que j’ai acheté le terrain AN the political authorities as a whole agreed FR la construction de cette tour. AN to the construction of this tower. FR Paris et ses 4 premiers arrondissements, AN Paris has its four first arrondissements, FR le vrai centre historique, AN the true historic centre, FR il n’y a pas de tours. Tout est nickel ! AN there are no towers. It’s squeaky clean! FR Rien ne bouge. AN Nothing moves. FR A Londres, la City qui est le centre historique, AN In London, in the City which is the historic centre, FR tout bouge et tout est en ville haute. AN everything moves and everything is in high-rise. FR Donc, il y a des cultures architecturales AN So there are architectural cultures FR que l’on accepte ou non AN that are either accepted or not FR par rapport au traumatisme des villes. AN depending on how traumatised the cities are. FR Chez nous la ville a été traumatisée AN In our country the city was traumatised FR à l’époque d’une spéculation immobilière, AN in a period of property speculation, FR de bruxellisation, on a fait des tunnels, AN of “Brusselisation”, we dug tunnels,  FR on a détruit,… AN we destroyed… FR Donc, les gens et les associations sont plutôt AN So, the people and the associations are rather FR hostiles à l’idée d’une ville haute. AN hostile to the idea of a high-rise city. FR Cela repose sur une réalité de lutte urbaine. AN This comes from the reality of an urban struggle. FR L’idée d’Atenor était de nous faire travailler AN Atenor’s idea was to get us working on the project FR mais ils ne voulaient pas qu’on soit seuls AN but they didn’t want us to be on our own, FR puisqu’il y avait un objet assez imposant AN as this was a quite imposing object. FR que l’on n’avait jamais fait. AN that had never been done before. FR Ils voulaient un architecte étranger. AN They wanted a foreign architect. FR On est très vite tombés d’accord sur David Chipperfield. AN We quickly reached agreement on David Chipperfield, FR On a commencé à travailler avec David Chipperfield, AN We started working with David Chipperfield, FR l’idée étant que David fasse les façades, AN the idea being that David would do the façades, FR la volumétrie et le masterplan AN the volumetrics and the masterplan, FR et que nous nous occupions des appartements. AN and that we would take care of the apartments. FR Nous avons travaillé avec le bureau de Berlin pendant 2 ans. AN We worked with the Berlin office for two years. FR Le projet qui en est sorti était AN The project that came out of it FR architecturalement magnifique. AN was architecturally magnificent. FR C’était une tour faite en acier Corten AN It was a tower done in Corten steel FR avec de grands éléments verticaux, AN with large vertical elements, FR avec des terrasses tout autour de la tour AN with terraces all around the high-rise tower FR comme une exostructure. AN as an exostructure. FR Mais par le hasard des choses, AN But as things turned out, FR alors que nous pensions à une tour de logements, AN while we were thinking of a residential tower, FR le projet ressemblait à une tour du WTC. AN the project was looking like one of the WTC towers. FR Il y a eu une grande confusion AN There was great confusion FR au sein du monde politique AN in the political world FR et j’ai dû abandonner ce projet. AN and I had to abandon the project. FR Le bâtiment de Chipperfield était AN Chipperfield’s building was FR absolument intéressant. AN extremely interesting. FR C’était d’une simplicité AN It was of the simplicity FR et aussi d’une qualité architecturale AN and also the architectural quality FR que l’on connaît de cet architecte. AN that this architect was known for. FR Cela m’a convaincu de dire « oui » ! AN It convinced me to say yes FR Ce qui est intéressant, AN What I find interesting, FR c’est de voir comment un promoteur trouve AN is to see how a developer considers that FR que cela ne correspond pas à ça ou à ça, AN this does not correspond to that or that, FR ou que c’est trop cher, AN or that it’s too expensive, FR ou l’argument qu’il avait employé était AN or the argument that he used that FR que leurs actionnaires ne voulaient pas Chipperfield AN their shareholders didn’t want Chipperfield FR parce qu’ils avaient trop peur de ce qu’il allait faire. AN because they were too afraid of what he was going to do. FR Je pense que Stephan Sonneville a pris peur AN I think that Stephan Sonneville FR et Atenor aussi AN and Atenor too, became afraid FR sur la possibilité de vendre des appartements AN of the prospects of selling apartments FR derrière une exostructure un peu présente AN that were behind a rather prominent exostructure FR en acier Corten AN in Corten steel, FR qui avait eu de mauvaises expériences à Bruxelles. AN which had had some bad experiences in Brussels. FR Notamment, le siège actuel de la Régie des Bâtiments AN Particularly the current headquarters of the FR près de la porte de Hal. AN Régie des Bâtiments, nearby the Porte de Hal. FR Il avait été fait par Jacques Bauchet à l’époque. AN It was done by Jacques Bauchet at the time. FR On l’a modifié car ça gouttait sur le trottoir. AN Changes were made to it as it dripped onto the pavement. FR Et donc, malheureusement, Stephan a voulu AN And so unfortunately Stephen wanted FR faire changer David Chipperfield AN David Chipperfield to change things FR qui, lui, n’a pas voulu changer. AN which he himself didn’t want to change. FR Ça s’est arrêté comme ça. AN It ended like that. FR Il y a eu un petit intermède où en poussant de notre côté, AN There was a short pause during which, pushing on our side, FR nous avons étudié une tour seuls AN we did studies for a tower by ourselves FR dont, je pense, nous n’avons pas à rougir. AN one which I think we have nothing to be ashamed of. FR C’était une tour de logements AN It was a residential project FR et un projet de logements qui gardait la position de la tour AN that retained the position of the tower FR comme l’avait proposée David Chipperfield AN that David Chipperfield had proposed, FR mais avec une architecture différente, AN but with a different architecture, FR plus claire, des bandeaux horizontaux, AN a lighter look, horizontal bands, FR une piscine en étage. AN a swimming pool on the first floor. FR Et puis, Stephan s’est dit que, AN Then Stephan thought that FR vis-à-vis des autorités, vis-à-vis des acquéreurs, AN with respect to the authorities, and the purchasers, FR il serait bien d’avoir un architecte international. AN it would be good to have an international architect. FR Alors, il a été chercher, AN So off he went, FR sur les conseils de je-ne-sais-qui, AN on whose advice I’ve no idea, FR Yves Lion, un architecte français AN to look for Yves Lion, a French architect, FR qui était, comme tous les architectes français, AN who was, like all French architects, FR un peu hautain. AN somewhat haughty. FR Il a dit qu’il n’avait pas besoin de nous AN He said that he didn’t need us FR mais finalement nous avons fait un accord AN but eventually we reached agreement FR pour qu’il ait 20% du projet AN for him to have 20% of the project, FR et dans les 20%, il faisait les façades. AN and for his 20%, he would do the façades. FR In fine, j’y ai mis aussi ma patte AN In the end I also stuck my oar in FR puisque je suis parti de choses très simples. AN as I had started out with some very simple things. FR N’étant pas architecte AN Not being an architect, FR mais observateur du tissu urbain, AN but an observer of the urban fabric, FR j’ai voulu un ensemble de formes simples. AN I wanted a set of simple forms. FR Et puis cet immeuble, je l’ai voulu AN And with this building, I wanted it FR avec des couleurs qui traversent le temps. AN in colours that would stand the test of time. FR C’est-à-dire le gris et le blanc. AN Meaning grey and white. FR Quand on a fait le vernissage de la tour, AN By the time we’d done the opening of the tower FR il n’y avait plus qu’A2RC. AN there was nothing but A2RC left. FR Yves Lion n’avait pas bien compris qu’en Belgique, AN Yves Lion hadn’t understood that in Belgium FR l’architecte ne fait pas qu’un dessin AN the architect doesn’t just do the design FR mais il construit aussi. AN but he builds too. FR Après quelques expériences AN After a few experiences FR de plans d’exécution amusantes, AN with some amusing implementation plans, FR Atenor a demandé à A2RC AN Atenor asked A2RC FR de reprendre l’exécution aussi des façades AN to take over the implementation including the façades FR ce que nous avons fait. AN which we did. FR Le débat tel qu’il avait été posé était aussi AN The debate that he had started was also FR un débat architectural AN a debate about the architecture FR et d’intégration au sol AN and about its integration with the ground, FR et d’audace architecturale que nous ne retrouvons pas AN and about architectural daring which we don’t find FR de la même façon dans le bâtiment qu’il y a maintenant AN in the same way in the building that is there now, FR par rapport à la ligne simple et élégante AN compared to the simple and elegant lines FR qu’avait faite Chipperfield. AN that Chipperfield had done. FR Je ne me sens pas trahi. C’est une tour haute. AN I don’t feel betrayed. It’s a high-rise tower. FR Mais nous aurions un bâtiment de Chipperfield, AN But if we had a Chipperfield building, FR nous pourrions dire : AN we could say: FR « tiens, il y a là un travail architectural inattendu AN “Hey, this is a surprising architectural work that FR à Bruxelles par rapport à d’autres ». AN is unlike any other buildings in Brussels”. FR Quand je vois cet immeuble qui est fini AN When I look at this building now that it’s been finished FR depuis plusieurs années, AN for several years, FR je vois qu’il s’inscrit dans le paysage. AN I can see that it fits into the landscape. FR C’est certainement grâce à ses formes simples AN It’s definitely because of its simple forms FR et ses couleurs qui traversent le temps AN and its timeless colours, FR qu’il peut prendre sa place. AN that it can take its place here. FR Chaque jour diminue les critiques AN There is less criticism every day FR qui étaient très vives à l’origine. AN which was initially very strong. FR L’ensemble UP-site est vraiment le symbole AN The UP-site complex is really a symbol FR de la densité et de la mixité AN of density and diversity FR puisque nous avons une tour résidentielle, AN as we have a residential tower, FR un service de conciergerie qui est ouvert du matin au soir, AN a caretaker service that is open from morning till evening, FR un spa avec piscine et sports AN a spa with a sports swimming pool FR qui est extériorisé par rapport à la copropriété, AN which is externalised from the condo, FR avec des restaurants, AN with restaurants, FR et avec une demande expressive de la ville de Bruxelles AN and, by express demand of the City of Brussels, FR d’avoir un toit-terrasse accessible au public. AN a roof terrace accessible to the public. FR Alors le public ne peut pas y aller seul. AN Though the public can’t just go there, FR Il doit passer par le restaurant AN they have to go through the restaurant FR de manière à ce que l’on ait un certain contrôle. AN so that there’s some control there. FR C’est donc un morceau de ville. AN So it’s a piece of city. FR Il y a aussi un vidéoclub où l’on peut louer un espace AN There is also a video club where you can rent space FR pour venir avec ses amis regarder des films. AN to come with your friends to watch films. FR Nous avons un ensemble de 30.000 m2 de bureaux AN We have a 30,000m2 office complex. FR et nous avons également des logements rez+7, rez+8 AN and we also have apartments on the 7th and 8th floors FR qui bénéficient d’un jardin intérieur. AN which enjoy an interior garden. FR Nous avons également un parking public AN We’ve also got a public car park FR et, je tiens toujours à le souligner, AN and, I always like to stress, FR il y a plus de parkings vélos AN there are more parking spaces for cycles FR que de parkings voitures dans cet ensemble. AN than there are for cars in this complex. FR Les boîtes aux lettres, c’était une gageure AN The letterboxes were a real challenge FR car mettre un mur de 250 boîtes aux lettres AN because to put a wall of 250 letterboxes up FR comme on a l’habitude de faire, AN as we’re used to doing, FR cela allait être horrible. AN that would have been horrible. FR Chez A2RC, Brigitte et Cécile ont imaginé AN At A2RC, Brigitte and Cécile dreamed up FR une sculpture faite en cuir blanc, tissé, AN a sculpture done in white leather, woven, FR qui est un objet sculptural et architectural AN which is a sculptural and architectural object, FR – appelons-le comme on veut – AN – call it what you like – FR dans lequel on se promène AN that you walk into, FR et dans lequel on va retrouver les 250 boîtes aux lettres AN and where you find the 250 letterboxes, FR qui sont installées de manière AN which are installed in such a way that FR à ce que cela ne ressemble pas à n’importe où ! AN it doesn’t look like anywhere else! FR C’est un hall très étudié, très muséal. AN It’s a very carefully designed hall, very museum-like. FR Atenor a accepté de faire faire un dessin AN Atenor agreed to get a drawing done FR par l’artiste anversois Rinus Van de Velde AN by the Antwerp artist Rinus Van de Velde FR qui a fait une vue de Bruxelles depuis le haut de la tour AN who did a view of Brussels from the top of the tower FR qui est visible pour tous AN which can be seen by everyone FR puisque tout le monde peut entrer dans le hall AN as everyone can come into the hall FR et l’œuvre est visible de l’extérieur. AN and the work is visible from the outside.

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BELGIUM , DESTINATIONS , EUROPE

My 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 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 There

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.

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.

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

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 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.

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels Itinerary

Last Updated on February 6, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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:

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Belgium Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

One Day in Luxembourg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

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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• Challenger Tour

Challenger Tour Round-Up: Rodriguez into Colombia Final; Marshall & Ward Set for Brussels Showdown

PSA Club Campestre De Cali 2024  

Top two seeds Miguel Rodriguez and Leonel Cardenas will meet in the PSA Club Campestre De Cali final, after both recording comfortable 3-0 wins on semi-finals day. 

Home favourite and No.1 seed Rodriguez was taking on Mexico’s Alfredo Avila Vergara, who had already upset two seeds to reach this stage, but he was outclassed by the experienced Colombian, going down 11-7, 11-5, 11-6 in little more than half an hour. 

After claiming the first point of the day on a tight backhand drop that glued to the left-hand wall, Rodriguez proceeded to take a one-game lead in just 12 minutes, taking his third game ball when an ambitious behind-the-back shot from Avila sailed over the back wall. 

Game two was even quicker, taking just 10 minutes, and the flamboyant Colombian was soon on the brink of victory. 

He brought up four match balls with an unusual, flicked forehand that left Avila Vergara little chance to react, and was celebrating his win moments later, with a backhand boast finding the tin from the Mexican’s racquet on the rally that followed. 

Rodriguez was followed into the final by second seed Cardenas, who enjoyed a 3-0 win of his own over Egypt’s Yahya Elnawasany. 

Cardenas came into this semi-final having not yet dropped a game this week, but was made to work hard early on by his Egyptian opponent, needing 20 minutes to take game one. 

Game two was another tight affair, but it was once again the Mexican who came out on top after some more long, punishing rallies. 

After moving from 8-8 to 10-8 with a pair of tight drop shots, one on either side, Cardenas hit a crisp backhand winner to move within one game of victory, letting out a huge roar of emotion as the players headed off court. 

The early rallies of game three suggested another hard-fought game, with the score locked at 4-4, but from there, Cardenas took control, reeling off seven points in a row – including a delightful backhand drop from deep in the court at 9-4 – to secure the win. 

“I’m so happy with my path to the final,” Cardenas said after the match. 

“I just want to say that Yahya is a great player, and we fight hard, and I really liked that match today. 

“I knew it was going to be tough with long rallies. Yahya is a great player, he has the experience and he has the level of the top players. He has great results, he’s a talented player and he’s young, so I was expecting to use my experience.” 

Looking ahead to the final against Rodriguez, Cardenas added: “I’m relaxed. I know Miguel, he’s one of the greatest players from the Americas on the Tour. He’s one of the players that younger generations like me was looking for, so I just want to enjoy the match and of course, fight.

“I want the title and I want to play hard, and I know it’s going to be a great match.” 

Results:   [1] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) bt Alfredo Avila Vergara (MEX) 3-0: 11-7, 11-5, 11-6 (36m)  [2] Leonel Cardenas (MEX) bt [3] Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) 3-0: 11-6, 11-8, 11-4 (48m) 

Investimax Brussels Open 2024  

The final of the Investimax Brussels Open will also pit the top two seeds against each other, with England’s Kiera Marshall and South Africa’s Hayley Ward both vying for their first PSA Tour title. 

Top seed Marshall was facing 17-year-old Scottish talent Robyn McAlpine, who pushed the Englishwoman hard over close to 50 minutes of action. 

All three games were tight, but Marshall made her experience count when it mattered most in each of the three games, winning 11-7, 11-8, 12-10. 

26-year-old Ward then followed that up with a more straightforward win over Kara Lincou, denying the young Frenchwoman a second successive final appearance. 

After a tight first game which she won 11-9, Ward controlled the two that followed, dropping only seven more points in the entire match. 

Marshall and Ward will now battle it out for what would be a maiden Challenger Tour title for either player, with Marshall hoping to make it sixth time lucky, having been a beaten finalist on five previous occasions on Tour. 

Results:   [1] Kiera Marshall (ENG) bt [7] Robyn McAlpine (SCO) 3-0: 11-7, 11-8, 12-10 (49m)  [2] Hayley Ward (RSA) bt Kara Lincou (FRA) 11-9, 11-5, 11-3 (30m)

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Experience Brussels like never before with city tours and city tour packages. As you explore Brussels’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and local hotspots, you’ll uncover the stories that bring the city to life.

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Hop-on Hop-off electric bus tour of Brussels

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Stories About Brussels, An Insider's View by Local Storytellers

Overview of the tour in Brussels

We are local guides, ready to show you around using a mix of Humor, stories of Belgium & its history and genuine tips & tricks to get to know Brussels quickly: look no further. Together we have many years of experience in doing exactly that. The city has a rich history and transformed into the capital of Belgium and of Europe. Brussels is hard to describe, as it's not just a city. It's more like a concept (like Belgium itself). There's an enormous amount of things to consider: it's the birthplace of world-famous comics, there are 80 museums, politicians from 27 countries, 3 official languages and even more unofficial ones, it was at the heart of both WWI and WWII and people from 184 different nationalities are living in it. And of course, there's beer, chocolate, fries, and waffles. Join us, and we'll introduce you to everything Brussels has to offer!

This activity includes:

• Manneken Pis
• Mont des Arts
• Brussels Park

Grand Place

• Royal Palace of Brussels
• Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
• Brussels Stock Exchange
• St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
• Storytelling
• Tips & Tricks
• Beer & Food

Meeting point

You'll find your guide on the iconic Grand Place of Brussels by looking for the YELLOW umbrella with AMBASSADORS on it. Rain or shine, we'll be there. Any other yellow umbrella won't be as good.

Things to note

Our tours are running as normal again. Face masks or QR codes are not required. For children under 12, you don't need to make a booking, as we still have to limit the group size (and children are not subjected to this rule). While wearing a mask isn't mandatory. If you're part of a risk group, it is encouraged to wear an FFP2 mask if not enough distance can be kept. Wear comfortable shoes. As Belgium has ever-changing weather, prepare for the worst possible weather, then the weather can only turn out to be better than expected. We'll run our tours anyway!

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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11 Best Free Walking Tours in Brussels (2024) 

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HAVE YOU CONSIDERED TRYING ONE OF THE FREE WALKING TOURS IN BRUSSELS?

If you’re travelling to Brussels, be sure to take advantage of the free walking tours that the city has to offer! 

These tours a not only a fantastic way to explore the city’s top attractions, but they’re also an ideal opportunity to get to know the city’s history and culture. 

Joining a free walking tour in Brussels will allow you to experience the city from a local perspective.

Compared to traditional tours, free walking tours do not have a fixed price.

Instead, participants in the tour can give a considerate amount to the guide, depending on their performance and the guests’ satisfaction. 

There are so many free walking tours that you’ll find in the city, and you can’t possibly try everything in just one day.

To help you get started, I have put a list of the best free walking tours that you must try in the city of Brussels. 

Let’s go! 

Stories about Brussels

⭐4.9/5 | ⏳ 2h30

Free Tour Through Brussels (The Essential)

⭐4.8/5 | ⏳ 2h15

“ALL IN 2 HOURS”  (fullest Brussels experience)

⭐5/5 | ⏳ 2h00

11 BEST FREE WALKING TOURS IN BRUSSELS

1. stories about brussels: an insider’s view by local storytellers   .

⭐ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 stars (745 reviews)  | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

This free walking tour in Brussels is a 2.5-hour tour that is led by local guides who will share their different perspectives and knowledge about the city. 

The Stories About Brussels will take you on a journey to the history and culture of Belgium.

Although it’s been a long way from the long-gone medieval city, it’s still possible to get a sense of what it was like in those days with the help of these guides.

You’ll hear fascinating stories about the city’s past including its role in the development of Europe. 

During this tour, you will get the chance to discover the secrets of the city! Enjoy the scenic view as you pass down the most historical parts of Belgium.

And of course, don’t forget to enjoy some delicious Belgian waffles, chocolates and fries along your way. 

Highlights you’ll see:  

• Grand Place / Grote Markt 
• Manneken Pis 
• Downtown Brussels 
• Royal Galleries 
• Cathedral of St. Michael & St. Gudula 
• The Royal Palace 
• Mont des Arts 

“We had an amazing tour of Brussels with Conor! The range and depth of information he shared were perfect, giving a flavour of just about everything to do with Brussels. We particularly appreciated all of his recommendations of chocolatiers, restaurants, café and bars – definitely worth taking the tour near the beginning of your time in the city so you can make the most of these recommended places.” JOHN (sEE MORE REVIEWS)

 2. Free Tour Through Brussels (The Essential)

⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 stars (611 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 15 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

Discover Brussels’ sights, culture and history with this 2-hour and 15-minute tour.   Enjoy a guided walk through the city centre, taking in the sights of interest.

The Free Tour Through Brussels is loved by most tourists because of its knowledgeable guides who can speak English and Spanish fluently. 

During the tour, you will learn so much about the history of Brussels.

Even if history is not your thing, this tour will give you a better grasp and understanding of the city. 

The tour starts at the Grand Place where you’ll visit some of the oldest buildings and landmarks in Belgium.

Along the way, you can discover gastronomic secrets and find the best chocolates, waffles, fries and beer in the city .

The tour ends with a visit to a museum or art gallery so you can see much more than just buildings! 

• The Grand Place 
• Tintin Mural 
• Brussels Stock Exchange 
• Brussels Opera 
• San Hubert Galleries 
• Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula 
• Ravenstein Galleys 
• Bozar 
• Museum of Fine Arts 
• Instrument Museum 
• Royal Square 
• Mount of Arts 

“Bea has been a great host, she knows what she is explaining and you can tell that she does it with great enthusiasm.” sheila (see more reviews)

3.  “All in 2 Hours” Fullest Brussels Experience + Chocolate Tasting

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars (9 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

This free walking tour is led by a local tour guide Valeria. Her knowledge and passion for history and arts make this tour perfect for small and private tours in Brussels. 

For 2 hours, you will learn interesting facts about Belgium, Brussels in particular.

Everything from the Flemish masters and surrealism, even the dark pages of the Belgian royal family. 

With the All in 2 Hours Fullest Brussels Experience , you can explore the sights of beautiful medieval buildings and architecture.

The free walking tour also includes a chocolate-tasting stop where you can sample some of Belgium’s world-class chocolates! 

Also don’t hesitate to ask questions about the city. Valeria will recommend the best food and restaurants for you to try during your stay. 

• The Central Station 
• Royal Palace 

“Amazing Experience! This tour was so great to go on, I would definitely recommend it to anyone that visits Brussels. I had no idea what to expect from this tour. Our fantastic tour guide, Valeria showed us all the amazing history and beauty of Belgium. She also took us chocolate tasting and chocolate melts in your mouth. She was super personable and knowledgeable. We only had one day in Brussels and she made it worth wild. Definitely worth the trip!” angela (See more reviews)

4. The Free Tour of Brussels (The Most Complete)

⭐ RATING: 4.7 out of 5 stars (2346 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 15 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

If you’re planning to visit most of Belgium’s famous attractions and landmarks , then this tour is for you! 

The tour starts at the Grand Place as you explore all of the most impressive architecture and buildings in Brussels.

The guides are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the city , which makes each stop more fun and informative. 

During the tour, you will visit the symbolic statue of the peeing boy, the Manneken Pis.

You will also pass by the neighbourhood in Sablon Square and explore all of the city’s famous landmarks.  

This complete free tour of Brussels includes a free tasting of Artisan Belgian chocolates that will make your tour even more delightful. 

This free walking tour offers tours for small and large-sized groups. Although, for large groups, there is a chance of little interaction with the guide because of the number of travellers. 

• Grand Place 
• Street Art 
• Monument to Everard Serclaes 
• Medieval Wall 
• Sablon Square 
• Church of Notre Dame du Sablon 
• Courthouse 
• Palace of the Kings 
• Museum of Music and Instruments 
• Mount of the Arts 

“Highly recommended tour: informative, interesting, relevant details and super presentation of the visual “meterial”. The route covers the most iconic points of the city. Thanks a lot to the guide!” Liudmyla (See more reviews)

5. Free Tour Brussels European Quarter

⭐ RATING: 5 out of 5 stars (5 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours and 15 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

If you’re looking for an affordable and informative way to explore the European Union – which holds great significance in shaping Europe, then this tour is for you! 

Brussels is the home of the European Parliament. And this tour will allow you to discover more about the EU and learn about its fascinating history, political system and emblematic EU buildings.  

The tour will start at the central station and moves towards the different EU institutions including the European Parliament and European History Museum.

This free walking tour will also allow you to visit European neighbourhoods in the city centre also known as the European Quarter. 

Along the way, you’ll see other interesting landmarks such as the Berlaymont building and other structures that define the European Quarter.

The Brussels European Quarter free tour will conclude at the Fiftieth Anniversary Park where you’ll find the monument dedicated to Belgium’s independence. 

• Brussels Central Station 
• Ravenstein Galleries 
• Royal Park 
• European Parliament 
• European History Museum 
• Leopold’s Park 
• Schuman Roundabout 
• Berlaymont 
• Council of the EU 
• Press Palace 
• Fiftieth Anniversary Park 
• Mosque 
• Fiftieth Anniversary Arc 

“Very good tour. A lot of interesting information.” Sócrates (See more reviews)

6. Brussels Classic Free Waking Tour with Richi

⭐ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 stars (40 reviews)   | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours and 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

This free walking tour guided by Richi is another great way to explore the beautiful city of Brussels.

No matter which part of Europe you are from, you don’t have to worry if you don’t speak English – Richi can speak 6 European languages.  

Richi also has extensive knowledge of the city’s history, architecture and culture which he loves sharing with his guests.

The tour, which lasts for about 2.5 hours, starts in the Grand Place and will take you through some of the most popular landmarks in Brussels.

Brussels Classic Free Walking Tour with Richi will provide interesting insights on each landmark and share some fun facts about Brussels that you may never hear before. 

Highlight you’ll see:  

• The Grand Place / Grote Markt 
• The Cathedral 
• Sablon Quarter 
• Marolles Quarter 
• Royal Court 
• Mon des Arts 

“If you are looking for something with a little different than the classic walking tour, you should try this alternative walking tour. Richi made the walk intereSTing and fun, and his energy was contagious! Make sure you have a good walking shoes because Richi’s tour lasts over 2 ½ hours!” ANN LAHUCIK (see more reviews)

7.  Essential Brussels by Locals + PDF Guide

⭐ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 stars (573 reviews)   | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

If you’re looking for a more personalized free walking tour experience, then this tour might be the one for you! 

Discover Belgium in small groups and discuss topics such as the history and legends of Brussels, the architecture, the arts and comics, and of course the secrets including Belgian chocolates, waffles and fries. 

Essential Brussels by Locals offers a unique and interactive way to explore the city with knowledgeable and passionate guides who bring their flair to the tour. 

At the end of each tour, they will provide you with a PDF guide complete with the best places and recommendations in Brussels for you to continue exploring the city on your own. 

• Mural of Tintin and Belgian comics 
• Art Noveau 

“Gerard was a great guide and very knowledgeable about the history of Brussels and Belgium. There were so many things that I oearnt and had not completeed the tour, I would’ve missed some pretty cool facts, especially about the Grand Place and its famous habitants! I would defiitely recommend this tour! Thank you Gerard.” NATASHA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

8. Free Tour “Unusual and Alternative Brussels the Lower Town”

⭐ RATING: 4.6 out of 5 stars (122 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

Composed of professional and freelance guides, this free walking tour in Brussels will guide you into the main and popular attractions of the city. 

They specialize in offering custom-made tours that balance culture and leisure based on guests’ interests and preferences.

They offer a lot of attractions to visit including a tour of the Lower Town Brussels which is somehow overlooked by tourists. 

During your tour, you will be led through the charming streets of Brussels and immerse yourself in rich history and culture.

They also provide the best recommendations for places to eat and bars. 

• Monument of Everard t’Serclaes 
• The Manneken Pis 
• The Notre Dame de Bon Secours Church 
• Anspach Boulevard 
• La Senne 
• Saint-Gery Islet 
• Reconstruction of the old arm of the Senne 
• The Halles Saint-Gery 
• The Zinneke Pee 
• Saint-Catherine Square 
• The Black Tower 
• Saint–Jean Baptiste Church 
• Brouckere Square 
• The Royal Galleries 

“Really enjoyed this tour. Guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Loads of local history and recommendations on places to visit, eat and drink. Would recommend this tour especially on your first day in the city.” TONY (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

9. Free Tour Art Nouveau and Victor Horta (Brussels )

⭐ RATING: 4.4 out of 5 stars (18 reviews)   | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

If you want an in-depth and more informative tour of Art Nouveau and all of Brussels’s historic architecture , then this tour is definitely for you! 

Belgium is known for its mix of grand and modern medieval buildings.

This free walking tour will take you through the city’s stunning Art Nouveau architecture, and the fascinating stories behind its creation.  

You will learn interesting facts about the evolution of European architecture and know all of the famous architects behind them during the 18 th and 19 th centuries including Victor Horta , who was one of the pioneers of Art Nouveau architecture. 

This 3-hour guided tour begins at the Grand Place and concludes at the front of Maestro Victor Horta’s house which is now known as the Horta Museum. 

• Old House England  
• Tassel Hotel, built by Victor Harta   
• Van Rysselberghe House, built by Ocatave Van Rysselberghe  
• Otlet Hotel, built by Ocatave Van Rysselberghe and Henry van de Velde  
• Goblet Hotel d’Alviella, built by Ocatave Van Rysselberghe  
• Ciamberlini Hotel, built by Paul Hankar  
• The House of the Painter Rene Janssens, built by Paul Hankar  
• The Beukman House, built by Albert Roosenboom  
• The Private house, built by Paul Hankar
• Victor Horta Museum 

“Maria was a wonderful guide. She is very passionate about Art Nouveau and her passion is infectious. Her format was very professional and she allowed for question and answer them with ease. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in learning more about Art Nouveau. Thanks for a great walking tour!  STEPHANIE (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

10. Free Tour of the Authentic Historical Centre of Brussels

⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5 stars (70 reviews) | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

This free walking tour at the authentic centre of Brussels is a must-try for anyone interested in exploring the charming city’s rich history and stunning architecture on foot. 

The tour includes professional guides who can speak English or Spanish and will take you on a journey through the beautiful streets of Brussels.

They will provide you with all of the information about the best museums in Brussels , their collections, and all of the best bars and restaurants. 

This 2.5-hour historical centre tour covers almost every attraction in the city of Brussels.

Discover everything about the comic, and Belgian gastronomy, where to find the best Artisan chocolates and all the things you’d like to know about the city. 

The starts at the Lower Town of Brussels and winds its way through the Grand Place and concludes at Charles Buls Square. 

Highlights you’ll see:  

• Saint-Jacques de Compostela 
• Our Lady of Good Help Church 
• Enredo Mural, Carin Mural, Rio Hochet, and the Nero Mural 
• The River Senne 
• Island of Saint Gery, and the market area 
• Zinneke Pis 
• Santa Catalina Square 
• Church of San Juan Bautista 
• De Brouckere Square 
• Plaza de la Moneda 
• The Jeanneke Piss and Café Delirium tremens 
• San Huberto Royal Galleries
• Charles Buls Square 

“Walid was very knowledgeable. He knows his facts and makes history interesting. It was worth it even though we just went on another tour. He gave the necessary info without being boring.” anna (see more reviews)

11. Free Tour Brussels the Royal Palace and the Grand Sablon

⭐ RATING: 4.3 out of 5 stars (36 reviews)   | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 📅 CHECK AVAILABILITY

Get the chance to visit the historical centre of Brussels and learn more about the Belgian Monarchy, the political system, and the European Union on this tour! 

This tour focuses on the nobility and the church, the Burgundian dynasty, the Habsburgs, and the Guild of Archers.

You will explore all of the historical sites including the beautiful churches of St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral. 

Included in this informative tour are an English-speaking guide and a free tasting of Belgian chocolates. However, trams, buses, and museum tickets are not included. 

•  St. Hubert Royal Galleries
• The Mort Subite 
• The Cathedrals of St. Michael and St. Gudula 
• Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament 
• The Royal Park 
• The Musical Instruments Museum (Art Nouveau) 
• The Palace of Charles de Lorraine 
• The Magritte Museum and the Palace of Fine Arts 
• The Petite Sablon and the Grand Sablon 

“It was a great tour, the guide was passionate and gave us much more information than I expected!” Miléna (see more reviews)

Frequently Asked Questions   

Are free walking tours free  .

Free walking tours in Brussels do not have a fixed price. However, travellers who participate can give a considerable amount of money to the guide depending on your satisfaction. 

How much do you give for a free walking tour?  

It is customary to tip your guide depending on their performance and how satisfied you are with the experience. In Brussels, you can give a considerable amount of money ranging from €10 to $50 for each person on the tour. 

What is a free general walking tour?  

Free walking tours are more relaxed and informal compared to traditional walking tours. Although advance booking is not required, it is important to book your reservations with a reliable tour provider to reserve a spot in high-demand tourist locations. There is also no fixed price, and travellers can pay the tour guide with a tip instead. 

OTHER TOURS IN BRUSSELS

Wrapping up: best free walking tours in brussels.

Without a doubt, free walking tours in Brussels are one of the greatest ways to explore the city and get some insider insights from knowledgeable guides. 

Aside from the beautiful attractions, you can learn so much about history, architecture, culture and of course the food! What’s more satisfying is that it’s totally budget-friendly and you get to discover Brussels from a unique and interactive perspective. 

From this post, we hope we’ve been able to showcase all the best free walking tours that you’re looking for in Brussels. Depending on your interests and preferences, there is always choose a free walking tour that best suits you. 

By taking one of these tours, you can make the most out of your time in Brussels and get to know this vibrant city on a deeper level! 

🏆 Scrolled all the way to the bottom? Stories About Brussels free walking tour is the best walking tour in Brussels!

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

Brussels   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Getty Images |

19 Best Things To Do in Brussels

Updated Feb. 2, 2023

Discover your inner child at the Belgian Comic Strip Museum , take a whirlwind tour of the continent at Mini-Europe or tickle your taste buds at a chocolate shop ( Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert is a good place to start). The Grand-Place is another

• All Things To Do

Grand-Place Grand-Place free

Whether you're just passing through Brussels or here for a week, you can't miss the Grand-Place. This square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits in the heart of Brussels and is renowned for its many Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. The Grand-Place is close to many of the city's main attractions, including the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral and the beloved Manneken Pis . At Christmas, enjoy the Winter Wonders light show at night along with a massive Christmas tree, and every August, admire an enormous carpet made of flowers inside the Grand-Place.

Travelers love the Grand-Place for its stunning architecture. Recent reviewers suggested visiting during the day and night; during the day to see the details of the architecture, and at night to witness the vibrant life that takes over the square. However, a common complaint among tourists was the constant crowds (and higher prices), but that's to be expected at such a big attraction. 

St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral free

Built in the Brabantine Gothic style and so named for its chapel dedicated to St. Michael and for housing the relics of St. Gudula, this cathedral's current structure dates back to the 11th century and took some 300 years to build. Inside, you will find stained-glass windows, statues, paintings, a new Grenzing organ and a crypt that may contain the remains of St. Gudula with ancient Roman graffiti on it. Below the current church are the remains of a 10th-century Romanesque church. Outside the cathedral is a square where you can sit on benches under the shade of honey locust trees.

Past visitors appreciated the architecture of the church, with some noting the beauty of the stained-glass windows in particular and described it as "amazing" and "stunning."

Musical Instruments Museum Musical Instruments Museum

A former Old England department store built in the 19th century, the Musical Instruments Museum, also known as the "MIM," is housed in an Art Nouveau building located about a half-mile from the Grand-Place . Inside you'll find more than 1,200 instruments from around the globe displayed across four galleries. The museum gives visitors the opportunity to hear what these instruments sound like, as well. Inside, a restaurant touts fantastic views of the city.

Recent visitors were impressed with the variety of instruments inside the museum, as well as with the building itself. Some advised that there are few signs in English, so it can be a bit confusing. Many suggested parting with a few more euros to take advantage of the audio guide. Travelers also recommend taking a trip to the cafe, which offers great views of Brussels.

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Parc du Cinquantenaire Parc du Cinquantenaire free

Meaning "50th anniversary," Cinquantenaire Park was built in 1880 in honor of the 50th anniversary celebration of the independence of Belgium. It is a large French-style park inside the city surrounded by museums and filled with gardens with a large triumphal arch. The park also hosts a variety of festivities throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks and sporting events.

Past visitors said the park is a relaxing and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Brussels. They also recommend checking out the car tunnel that runs underneath the park.

Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert free

Want to get in a little shopping while visiting Brussels? Make time for a visit to Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a Renaissance-style arcade built in the mid-1800s. With a glass roof once known as the "umbrella of Brussels," the building is worth seeing whether or not you want to indulge in any retail therapy. Around 6 million visitors come to the Galeries every year to enjoy stores selling everything from clothing to chocolate to diamonds. The Galeries Royales also house restaurants, art galleries, a cinema and theaters. Victor Hugo even once enjoyed hanging out here.

Past visitors said it makes a great place to see on a rainy day and described the building as stunning. Many also recommended checking out the extensive chocolate shops.

Horta Museum Horta Museum

Art lovers should not pass up the chance to see where Victor Horta – one of the founders of the art nouveau movement – lived and worked. The home, which was built between 1898 and 1901 features murals, stained glass and mosaics that are largely intact from its original construction. As you walk through, keep your eyes open for Horta's influences, from the wing-like skylights to the winding banisters to the overhead lights stemming down from the ceiling like vines.

Recent travelers said the museum is a must-see attraction for architecture aficionados, but warned that you cannot take photos inside the museum and that lines are sometimes long.

Cantillon Brewery Cantillon Brewery

When it comes down to it, a trip to Brussels isn't complete unless you've sampled the beer. Cantillon has been brewing traditional Belgian beers, including lambic, gueuze, faro and kriek, since 1900. During your tour, you may learn about brewing, bottling or even how barrels are cleaned, and if you plan ahead, you can even attend a public brewing session to see the action first-hand.

Recent visitors said they enjoyed exploring the brewery and learning how the beer is made. Others enjoyed sampling the unique taste of lambic beer. Reviewers recommended signing up for a guided tour to make the most of your visit.

Mini-Europe Mini-Europe

This theme park north of central Brussels features scale models of more than 350 of Europe's most famous landmarks, from Athens' Acropolis and the canals of Venice to London's Big Ben and Paris' Eiffel Tower. Each replica comes complete with visual and sound effects. Be sure to bring your kids: Many of the park's miniature attractions are interactive, such as Naples' Mount Vesuvius and the Berlin Wall. 

Many past visitors agreed that Mini-Europe is a great place to bring children. They described it as adorable, cute and informative and recommended adding it to your itinerary.

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Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, located in Brussels' historic center, is a group of six different art museums: the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Meunier Museum, Wiertz Museum, Magritte Museum and the Fin-de-Siècle Museum. Together, they offer a collection of 20,000 works, dating from the 15th century to modern day. Walking through the halls, travelers will be able to see works from Rubens, Rodin, Gauguin, Magritte and many more. There's also an impressive collection of works from the Flemish school, including Pieter Bruegel.

Past travelers were impressed with the museum's vast collection of art. Considering the size of the collection, many suggested allotting 2 1/2 or more hours to not just see the works, but to appreciate and enjoy them.

Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

For those interested in military history, this museum makes for a great afternoon. Located within Cinquantenaire Park , the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History traces the world's military history over the last 10 centuries, displaying weaponry, uniforms and airplanes from various points in time. Spend a fair amount of time in the airplane hangar, which features some 130 aircraft, including zeppelins, F-16s and more. 

Recent visitors said this museum is well worth a visit and recommend seeking out the view of the city atop the terrace of the triumphal arch. Some warned that no cash is accepted and advised allotting several hours to spend in the museum.

Museum of Natural Sciences Museum of Natural Sciences

Set aside plenty of time to spend at this museum, which will delight the science and dinosaur lovers of all ages. With some 38 million specimens on hand (only a fraction of which are on display), this museum has the largest natural history collection in Europe behind those in Paris and London. Don't miss the dinosaur gallery, the largest room in Europe devoted to dinos, to see a replica of the largest and most complete male T. rex known today, along with 30 complete iguanodon skeletons that were discovered in Belgium 1878. 

Past visitors said the museum is a great activity for kids, with many praising the dinosaur collection. Some reviewers advised visiting a weekday to avoid crowds.

Atomium Atomium

The most popular tourist attraction in Brussels, the Atomium is a depiction of an iron crystal magnified more than 100 billion times that was originally built for the 1958 World’s Fair in Brussels. Today, it houses multiple exhibitions, a panoramic view over the city and a restaurant with excellent views, and is considered to be a symbol of both Brussels and Belgium.

If there's one reason to head to the Atomium, it's the spectacular views of the city, according to many recent visitors. Travelers advised that it is far from other attractions, however, and that there can be long lines.

Église Notre-Dame du Sablon Église Notre-Dame du Sablon free

Just south of the Grand-Place , the impressive  Église Notre-Dame du Sablon – which dates back to the 14th century – is worth a visit, according to recent travelers. The church's interior features two chapels dedicated to saints and decorated with marble statues. There are also statues of St. Paul and St. Augustine inside.

Past visitors said they were impressed by the statues and stained-glass windows in the church and used words like "stunning" and "magnificent" to describe the interior.

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Belgian Comic Strip Center Belgian Comic Strip Center

Belgium is the birthplace of many legendary comic characters, including Tintin and the Smurfs, and is also home to more than 700 comic strip artists. So it's no wonder the city pays tribute to the comic art in the form of a museum. The Belgian Comic Strip Center tells the story of European comics from their beginnings to modern day through a variety of permanent and temporary collections and a Comic Strip Library boasting more than 60,000 works.

Recent visitors enjoyed their experience at the Belgian Comic Strip Center with many feeling nostalgic to learn about comics they recall growing up. Past travelers were also impressed with the beauty of the art nouveau building, which was designed by architect Victor Horta (you can learn more about him at the Horta Museum).

Manneken-Pis Manneken-Pis free

This little boy has become a renowned Brussels landmark. The Manneken Pis (which translates to "little man pee" in Dutch) is a bronze statue of a child relieving himself that also serves as a public fountain. Though the original statue dates back to the 17th century, the statue on display is actually a replica. Located just south of the Grand-Place , the statue has been the recipient of about 800 different costumes, many of which you can see at the Museum of the City of Brussels. He's even been kidnapped and returned multiple times. The statue's origin story is a bit disputed, but wherever it came from, its allure has endured.

Recent travelers were torn over Manneken Pis. Most agreed they were surprised by the boy's small size, and some maintain it's a must-see, while others say to skip it. Past visitors also warned that it is crowded at most times of the day.

Train World Train World

Train enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at Train World, which sits about 3 miles north of the Grand-Place . Inside you can see restored train stations, dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, learn about the history of Belgium's railway, see the oldest remaining steam engine in Europe, explore the reasons people use trains from travel to commuting and more.

Past visitors said they loved the interactive exhibits and that their kids did not want to leave. They also recommended a visit to the on-site restaurant.

Parlamentarium Parlamentarium free

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Mont des Arts Mont des Arts free

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French singer amir haddad lands debut tv role in tf1 adaptation of israeli romcom series ‘the baker and the beauty’, breaking news.

Taylor Swift Chokes Up On Stage During Final Liverpool Concert In Eras Tour

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It’s taken the UK’s great musical city of Liverpool to do it, but Taylor Swift was finally brought to tears by her fans on Saturday evening, as she performed her final concert there in front of a crowd of 60,000.

The singer had staged three shows at the Anfield stadium – more famous for its long association with Liverpool FC. The Daily Mail reports that Swift began looking “visibly emotional” while singing her 2020 hit Champagne Problems .

This moment came the same day as her ex-partner Joe Alwyn broke his silence on their long relationship being referenced in Swift’s most recent album The Tortured Poets Department .

The Saturday show saw Swift surprise the crowd with a fresh acoustic mash-up of her songs; this time it was Carolina and No Body No Crime , and also The Manuscript and Red .

The tour will continue in the UK with Swift heading to Cardiff on Tuesday before London later in the month.

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Kehlani's Surf-to-Tour-Friendly Beauty Essentials Include This SPF Stick and a Red-Light Mask

By Danielle Sinay

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Kehlani has been having a busy summer, to say the least. Aside from writing, recording, and promoting their fourth studio album, Crash , out June 21, the singer-songwriter has been preparing for their Las Vegas residency at LIV Nightclub and fundraising with Nöl Collective in support of families in Palestine, Congo, and Sudan. Kehlani and the collective have raised $555,000 to date.

Despite their busy schedule, Kehlani still manages to find the time for leisurely activities like surfing and self-care. Prioritizing moments to decompress is exactly why the 29-year-old is able to do at all. “When I’m giving what I’m giving to the world, if I don’t find those moments to restore myself—take a bath or get in the sauna or cold plunge or any of those things—it makes it a bad time,” Kehlani says. “I’m just pouring out and there’s no space pour in.”

For Kehlani, that means taking care of themselves on the outside too. “Beauty is a pick-me-up that people don’t recognize as one,” the singer says. “They think of meditation and going to the gym and things like that, but for me, looking cute is self-care. I have to feel cute for the gym. It just helps me all around.” It also helps protect their skin, which is essential for someone who loves surfing.

“I started surfing and have been so consistently in the sun with the salt water intensifying the sun on your face—you just don’t realize how important SPF is until you’re in third-degree-burn level, peeling on your nose. Then you’re like, Wow, I’ve done all this work, gotten all these facials, and do all these chemical exfoliants, and now I’m going backwards because I’m not wearing SPF correctly,” says Kehlani. “Once I really understood using the proper amount of SPF and when and how, it was a game changer.”

The same goes for their approach to using chemical exfoliants over all. “We’ll have an off day on tour and then we’ll surf, so I can’t use a chemical product if I’m going to be in the sun. But if I put it at night, it’s going to happen right before they have to plug my pores up with a bunch of makeup anyway,” they say.

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The solution? “I just focus repairing and really focusing on my skin barrier . It’s getting rubbed so much by the end of every show night, sweating, all the makeup, then I have to take it off, reapply for an after-party, and rub it off again. That’s happening every single day,” they say. “So I just do a lot of preparation, stay hydrated, and focus on the health of my skin, versus just layering things on top.”

And when Kehlani does opt for topical products, they do their research: “Everything on my list has been vetted and is politically aligned as well. It was really important to me to look up the political alignment of these brands so that I’m not supporting where I can’t support.”

Ahead, Kehlani shares their eight essential beauty must-haves.

Lush Charity Pot Body Lotion

I honestly would recommend most things from Lush, but their Charity Pot Lotion is so thick and it lasts for so long. And if you buy it, a portion goes to the charity that they’re currently supporting. I also really like that Lush has the reusable refillable canisters. You use all your lotion, bring it back, and they refill it rather than you coming and buying a whole new one. I really like that they’re a sustainable brand . It’s amazing.

Huda Beauty Faux Filler Shiny Non-Sticky Lip Gloss

Huda Beauty is incredible. Huda Kattan been super vocal about Palestine and has donated so much of her own money and her company’s to Palestine. And her products are just the shit beyond the politics. So I feel like when it’s fantastic products paired with great political alignment, you really can’t lose. I love that.

Simihaze Beauty Sun Flush All-Over Face Tint Liquid Blush

Simi and Haze Khadra are Palestinian; they’re my friends. Simihaze is another brand that has been vocal and aligns with my views, but also the products are the shit. I really like the way that they’re packaged. They’re so cute. I love their packaging and their overall tint. It can be used anywhere, so it’s good to bring if you need something that could tint your lips, but also tint your cheeks, and maybe give you a little something on your eyes, and you can just use it wherever you want. So I like that a lot.

Shiseido White Lucent Power Brightening Mask

These Shiseido sheet masks are so good. I bring them on tour. I have dry skin, so any time I have a night where I just need to be extra-super-duper moisturized, I use these masks. Amazing.

Byoma Balancing Face Mist

I always put this Byoma face mist on after my exfoliant and before my serums . It’s just good to have the soak in. I like it a lot, and their whole brand is great.

Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

I’ve been using the Dr. Dennis Gross red-light mask for a little bit now because my skin just goes through phases in general. So I don’t necessarily know what’s coming from what in my skin care routine, but the mask pretty solid and I feel like it’s working so great. But if not the mask, then I use his Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads every single day. They’re not too rough, they’re not too harsh, they’re not too light. It feels like they’re working. They’re great. They get it all done.

Supergoop Glow Stick Sunscreen SPF 50

As someone who has to get in and out of the water and doesn’t necessarily have a sink [to wash my face] or all of my products with me, Supergoop’s Glow Stick is so helpful and easy to apply and reapply. They also have an SPF setting spray, which is so good if I’m out already and need to whip something by my pocket to make sure that I’m not passing that timeframe of reapplication. So those are great.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil is just standard, you know what I mean? It’s standard. If I’m traveling and I don’t want to bring all my fancy stuff from home or it’s not travel size or anything like that, I can just grab a travel size of Cetaphil. I never have to worry about it breaking me out or messing with me. It’s just standard, it’s good, and it works.

By Jake Henry Smith

By Elizabeth Logan

By Jana Pollack

Danielle Sinay is the associate beauty editor at  Glamour.  Follow her on Instagram  @daniellesinay .

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Robert plant and alison krauss offer up magical evening on stage outside chicago.

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Robert Plant and Alison Krauss perform on stage at Ravinia Festival. Wednesday, June 12, 2024 in ... [+] Highland Park, IL

“Isn’t that amazing?” asked Robert Plant rhetorically on stage Wednesday night at Ravinia Festival , about 25 miles north of Chicago in the suburb of Highland Park, Illinois. “It’s amazing the way two voices can sometimes feel like nothing I’ve ever imagined,” he continued, noting his performance alongside singer and violinist Alison Krauss . “It’s been a long, strange journey to get here… I think.”

In 2005, Plant released his eighth solo studio album Mighty ReArranger . It’s an apt title that perfectly encapsulates the solo career he’s put together since 1982, turning familiar songs on their head in the best way possible as he continues to forge ahead in one of rock’s most creative and impressive second halves.

Following the release of Raising Sand , his platinum 2005 collaboration with Krauss, the duo teamed again for 2021’s Raise the Roof , touring since.

“I am blessed,” said Plant late in Wednesday night’s performance. “I really am. I am so lucky to be in the presence of this wonderful woman and her magnificent art,” he continued, introducing Krauss.

With temperatures reaching 90 degrees on Chicago’s north shore, Plant and Krauss offered up a magical evening of live music, backed beautifully by a marvelous five piece group over the course of about an hour and a half.

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Wednesday marked just the seventh show of this outing for the duo, a tour set to run through the summer, wrapping up September 1, 2024 in Vail, Colorado ahead of an October tour of Italy for Plant.

Opening act JD McPherson was on double duty Wednesday, joining Plant and Krauss on guitar throughout, stealing opening number “Rich Woman” as Plant turned left to soak it in.

JD McPherson performs on stage as the opening act for Robert Plant and Alison Krauss. Wednesday, ... [+] June 12, 2024 at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL

A gorgeous silver backdrop backed the band with small screens flanking each side of the stage, a performance free of contemporary concert trappings which put the onus squarely on the live music being performed.

Krauss took on her first lead vocal of the evening shortly thereafter, with “The Price of Love” doubling as the first of three Everly Brothers cuts on the evening.

Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll” stood as one of the better early examples of Plant’s continual desire to shake up his catalog, with the violin of multi-instrumentalist Stuart Duncan combining with Krauss to drive the song’s earliest moments. Violin largely stood in for an early guitar solo on a slightly slowed yet equally rocking take on the classic cut. Plant spread his arms wide as McPherson tore into a solo late, shimmying as he turned to face Krauss for the song’s patented late “ooh yeah’s,” kicking it up a notch with a patented late wail as the impressive take drew to a close.

From Raise the Roof , “High and Lonesome,” the album’s only Plant-penned original, sparkled, with the crowd taking it upon themselves to clap in the intro in spirited fashion.

“Last Kind Words Blue” nearly stole the show with the combination of Duncan on resonator guitar and McPherson on electric steering the ship as mandolin gurgled underneath.

Duncan functioned Wednesday night as the band’s secret weapon, moving to ukulele for “Trouble With my Lover,” as penned by legendary New Orleans songwriter Allen Toussaint. Plant picked up a pair of maracas, looking on with a smile as Krauss sang.

Flipping back his lion’s mane with both hands, Plant dove into a uniquely expressive take on his own “In the Mood,” one defined largely by the sped up dueling fiddle work of Duncan and Krauss while McPherson supplied a lilting backing groove.

Banter was at a minimum Wednesday night but Plant did pause for a moment following a rollicking, spirited take on “Gallows Pole” that brought the Ravinia crowd to its feet in organic fashion with several numbers yet to go prior to the group’s encore.

“Many years ago, I said something like ‘it feels really good up here,’” said Plant, taking stock of his surroundings upon his return to the unique outdoor venue. “But it really does. This is one of the best interludes of my life,” he said, soon introducing each band member. “Please, folks, welcome over here - you know who he is - Robert Plant, everybody!” said Krauss gesturing left.

While rock solid throughout, Wednesday’s show really began to hit its stride late, with Zeppelin’s “The Battle of Evermore,” featuring electric mandolin, giving way to “When the Levee Breaks.”

JD McPherson and his band perform on stage as the opening act for Robert Plant and Alison Krauss. ... [+] Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL

Radically reworking the otherwise familiar number, Plant looked pleased, nodding to his right while smiling and clapping, enthralled by the sound as the band sped up the cut, with McPherson’s tremolo-soaked guitar wailing on the song in a whole new way. Waiting patiently, hands on hips, Plant finally delivered the song’s penultimate lyric, as the crowd roared in approval: “Going to Chicago!”

“Thanks for Champaign, Illinois!” said Plant, referencing the hometown of Krauss, just about three hours south. “So much fun. We’ll see ya. Somewhere,” he said following the group’s closing take on the Everlys’ “Gone Gone Gone.”

Putting a 50s spin upon Iggy Pop’s “Lust For Life,” McPherson shouted out longtime Chicago adult alternative station WXRT, what he called the first station in the country to spin his breakout 2010 hit “North Side Gal.”

“Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. This is year three for us out with Robert,” said the singer and guitarist, during his opening performance setting up a reverb-drenched take on “On the Lips.” “It’s quite a show!”

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Jack Nicklaus’ tournament returns to old date after Scottie Scheffler’s schedule concerns

The Memorial will return to its previous spot on the PGA Tour schedule, much to the delight of Jack Nicklaus and Scottie Scheffler.

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The Memorial Tournament is returning to its original spot on the PGA Tour calendar.

After striking an agreement with the PGA Tour to stage its event the week before the U.S. Open in 2024, Jack Nicklaus announced Monday that his Memorial Tournament will take place during the first weekend of June.

That means the tournament will begin on Memorial Day Monday , two weeks before the U.S. Open.

“The relationship the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday has enjoyed with the PGA Tour is more like a partnership. The Tour has acted in the best interest of the Memorial Tournament, and we, in turn, have always supported the Tour and its initiatives. That is why a year ago when the Tour presented us its new business model, we were willing to work with them and move the 2024 date to a week before the U.S. Open,” Nicklaus said in a statement. “Over recent months, we have had a number of conversations with Jay Monahan and his team—ones that have included our presenting sponsor Workday and Co-Founder and Executive Chair Aneel Bhusri—and together we determined that in the best interest of the Memorial Tournament, the Tour and its players, we would return to our traditional date and start Tournament week on the Memorial Day holiday.”

The Memorial Tournament presents a grueling test year in and year out, almost serving as a ‘Mini-major.’ This year’s edition certainly lived up to that billing, as Scottie Scheffler fought firm and fast conditions, as well as a charging Collin Morikawa , to win by a stroke at 8-under par. Scheffler even said it played like a U.S. Open, but it’s extremely difficult for both the mind and the body to play a U.S. Open-type course in back-to-back weeks.

Hence, at Pinehurst No. 2 this past week, Scheffler explained why he does not want to play the week before a major going forward.

“I think playing the week before, a lot of it depends on the golf course, but I think last week with the golf course the way it was, it probably was not the best prep work for me coming into another challenging event,” Scheffler said Sunday.

“I shot 5-under during the first round at the Memorial, which would have been the easiest day, and after that, I was 3-under from there on out. I mean, that’s pretty U.S. Open-like, and to play that many rounds, especially with what I’ve been dealing with the weeks leading up or the whole season, been playing a lot of good golf and being in contention, I think maybe my prep would have been a little bit better for this week if I was at home.”

Interestingly, Nicklaus, the 18-time major champion who has won more of them than anyone else, agreed with this sentiment.

“When I played, I rarely played a week before any major championship. So I’m asked to be part of putting on a golf tournament in a week that I would never play,” Nicklaus said before his tournament.

“From a sponsor’s standpoint, Memorial Day has been what our name is, and we were around Memorial Day. [Monday] is normally a huge day gallery-wise for us because it was Memorial Day, and we had maybe a thousand people here [this year on Monday].”

Now Nicklaus gets his wish, as his tournament will welcome the PGA Tour’s best players two weeks before Oakmont Country Club in Pittsburgh—another brutally tough course—will host the 2025 U.S. Open.

And best of all, Scheffler, now knowing that the 2025 Memorial aligns with his plans, will be there defending his title, too.

Jack Milko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. Be sure to check out @_PlayingThrough for more golf coverage. You can follow him on Twitter @jack_milko as well.

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• Rory McIlroy made a mistake leaving Pinehurst No. 2 early after crushing U.S. Open defeat
• Bryson DeChambeau wins U.S. Open in surreal style; here are 5 takeaways from Pinehurst No. 2
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It's the end of an era: Taylor Swift says Eras Tour will end in December

It's the end of an Era(s Tour).

Taylor Swift announced Thursday night during her Eras Tour show in Liverpool, England, that her behemoth concert tour will officially end its unprecedented run in December, presumably after her Dec. 6-8 shows at the BC Palace in Vancouver, British Columbia.

"This is the very first time I've ever acknowledged to myself and admitted that this tour is gonna end in December. Like, that's it," Swift said in a speech onstage during the "Red" set.

"That feels like so far away from now, but then again, it feels like we just played our first show on this tour because you have made this so much fun for us that we wanted to do 100 shows, 150-something shows that we have on the whole tour," she continued.

Swift said the Eras Tour has "become my entire life" and "taken over everything," including her hobbies, which have been replaced with sitting at home and trying "to think of clever, like, acoustic song mashups and think about what you might want to hear" during the "surprise song" set of her show.

From the stage, Swift also acknowledged that Thursday's show was the 100th on the Eras Tour ( on June 13, no less ). She called the experience the "most exhausting, all-encompassing but most joyful, most rewarding, most wonderful thing that has ever happened in my life, this tour, these moments with you."

The Eras Tour, which started March 17, 2023, in Glendale, Arizona, has spanned five continents. When the tour wraps, Swift will have performed 152 shows. The tour has broken records and yielded (a few versions of) a concert tour movie that broke records in its own right .

Thursday's comments were the first time Swift has announced an end date to her beloved Eras Tour, which she had been adding dates to over the last year.

It’s unclear what she will be up to next, but any true Swiftie knows it’s sure to be enchanting.

Swift continues her European run this weekend in Liverpool before a rare Tuesday show in Cardiff, Wales, followed by shows in London next week.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.