tour di bruxelles

THE 10 BEST Brussels Tours & Excursions

Brussels tours.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
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• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bruges and Ghent - Belgium's Fairytale Cities - from Brussels

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

3. Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels

4. Brussels Walking and Tasting Tour

5. Brussels: Historical Walking Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

6. Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

7. Private Brussels Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, Custom

8. Brussels Chocolate Beer Waffle and Belgian Whiskey All-in-One (Small Group) Tour

9. Brussels Discovery Tour: Belgian food, chocolate, waffles, beer, sightseeing

10. The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels

11. Guided Walking Tour in Brussels

12. Amsterdam Day Trip from Brussels

13. Belgian Chocolate Making Class and Tasting in Brussels

14. Brussels PRIVATE TOUR With Locals: Highlights & Hidden Gems

15. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

16. Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

17. Brussels Chocolate Walking Tour and Workshop

18. Belgian Beer Tasting in Brussels

19. Bruges by bike tour with the locals

20. From Amsterdam: Guided Tour to Brussels and Bruges

21. 2.5h Belgian Chocolate Workshop in Brussels

22. Brussels Small-Group Chocolate Appreciation Tour

23. Private Full-Day Trip to Bruges&Ghent from Brussels with tastings

24. Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels With Atomium Photo Stop

25. The Battle of The Bulge tour

26. Bastogne Battle of the Bulge from Brussels (semi-private)

27. Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience

28. Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Brussels

29. Bike tour Brussels highlights and hidden gems

30. Marc's Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

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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.

Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium)

The capital of Belgium , Brussels, is a fascinating place with stunning architecture and fascinating history packed into every street and alleyway. The vibe of the city is hard to put your finger on. Sometimes it seems very business and bureaucracy focused, it is after all the administerial centre of the EU, but at other times it feels laid back and does not take itself too seriously: think Manneken Pis and The Comic Strip Centre.

It is this multi-layered atmosphere that makes Brussels such a great city to visit. It truly has something for everyone and offers European staples such as art and architecture alongside more unusual attractions. Don’t visit Brussels if you are on a diet as the fries, mussels and beer will soon have you indulging.

Spending just a couple of days in the city will allow you to see all of the major and most popular sights but if you are here for a week, you will be able to visit some more obscure, but equally fascinating attractions. Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Be Inspired by the Grand Place

The Grand Place in Brussels is hidden away in the centre of the city but when you enter on foot, you are guaranteed to be left awestruck.

At the centre of the Grand Place is the beautiful 15th Century city hall but dotted around the square you will also be impressed by the six guild halls and their striking architecture.

The square is worth visiting several times at different times of the day. On certain days there is a flower market in the square and visiting at night is recommended.

2. Step back in time at the Old England Building

The Old England Building in Brussels was formerly a department store and was built in the very last year of the 19th Century.

The building attracts visitors because of its stunning facade but also due to the fascinating and vast musical museum it houses. The museum is home to more than 2000 musical instruments with historic value and gives guests a chance to listen to many of them.

The cafe on the roof of the building provides memorable panoramic views of the city.

3. Visit Brussel’s Notre Dame Du Sablon

This spectacular Gothic cathedral began life in the 14th Century when it was used as a chapel by the Archer’s Guild.

It was extensively expanded in the next century to the popularity and supposed healing powers of the Madonna statue located within. The statue was allegedly stolen by a husband and wife team of thieves in a rowing boat.

The location of the statue is unknown but the story is commemorated by a lifesize model inside the building.

4. Learn about lace in the Costume Museum

Lace is one of Brussels’ oldest crafts and the art of needlepoint lace, which was first developed in Italy, was one of the main industries in Brussels.

The museum details of lace outfits were made as well as displaying many historical outfits.

The exhibitions are ever changing but are always well presented.

5. Admire Le Botanique

Le Botanique was historically the botanical gardens of the city and still attracts a large number of guests in the modern day. The greenhouse, which dates back to the 19th Century, now regularly plays host to a range of performing arts and makes the place feel like more of a cultural centre than just a garden.

However if you are into greenery then the surrounding gardens are still intact and present in all their glory, and make for a welcoming change of pace from the city itself.

Ps: Le Botanique is included in the Brussels Bard which you can get here .

6. See the Palais Royal

Although the royal family of Belgium now spend their lives at Laeken, the Royal Palace in Brussels remains as their official residence.

The palace is open for tourists in the summer months and makes a worthy addition to any itinerary whilst visiting the city. The most notable room in the palace has a ceiling covered in the wings of beetles, forming an oddly beautiful mosaic.

The artwork as well as the interior decor is also as splendid as you might expect from a royal palace.

7. Laugh at the Manneken Pis

This odd statue has risen to fame and is a popular tourist attraction in the city. The name simply translates to “little man pee” and it has been given this name for obvious reasons.

The statue takes a little bit of skill in hunting down (unless you see it as part of a tour) but it is worth persevering. You will find it by taking the right lane away from the town hall.

The statue is thought to date back to the early 17th Century when it was designed by Jerome Duquesnoy.

8. Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

If you are craving some top notch art (and you should be when in a European Capital) then look no further than the Musee Royaux Beaux Arts.

The museum incorporates collections of modern and ancient art across a range of styles. Famous works at the museum include the Fall of Icarus and various paintings by the Antwerpen painter Peter Rubens. There are also works by Anthony Van Dyke and Hans Memling on display.

Allow close to a full day to be able to fully appreciate the museum.

9. Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

The Parc Du Cinquantenaire has been around since the reign of Leopold II.

It is a great place to visit for a number of reasons, whether you plan on having a picnic on the grass whilst absorbing the stunning architecture, or whether you intend to appreciate the vast collection of 35,000 artifacts housed in the museums here, a trip to the Parc Du Cinquantenaire should be part of any trip to Brussels.

10. Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels

Belgians are very proud of their beer and it has played an important role throughout the history of the city.

Tours are available that allow beer aficionados to experience the best pubs in the city as well as learning about the history of the beer and seeing how it is made in one of the city’s breweries. Whether or not you are a beer fan, this tour is worth considering due to the pride and historical value associated with beer in the city.

Tip: check out this Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

11. Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels

It is not widely known or as appreciated by tourists as other aspects of Brussels history but the city is actually known for its comic book history.

The city has a museum which is dedicated to comics; The Belgian Comic Strip Centre but aside from that, you will also get a feel of how important comics are to the city when you gaze up at larger than life comic book murals on the side of building walls.

Hunting these murals down is an exciting way to get around the city too.

12. See and be seen at Cafe Belga

Something of an institution in the city of Brussels, the Cafe Belga is hugely popular with locals, expats and tourists alike.

Located at the heart of Place Flagey (which is itself somewhat of a cultural mixing pot), the Cafe has great views, a buzzing atmosphere and great, affordable Belgian cafe food. The cafe gets busy in the summer but this is part of its charm.

Whilst you are in the area, Frit Flagey is well worth visiting and serves some of the best fries in the city.

13. Enjoy the nightlife

The nightlife of Brussels is varied and entertaining and has something to suit all tastes and budgets. One of the most worthwhile nights out is Madame Mustache, a club with waiters clad in sailors attire that plays a variety of different music.

Entry is free on weeknights but not weekends (it is also busier at the weekend). Dancing is the best way to enjoy your night here but if that is not to your liking there is always a table football room on offer.

There’s also a 4-Hour Locals Pub and Club Crawl which you can book here .

14. Learn about the city in the Broodhuis

The Flemish name of this building translates to “The Bread House” due to the many centuries that the city’s bread market was held here.

Fittingly, the building is now home to a museum focusing on the history of the city of Brussels. The exhibitions range from the middle ages to the present day and are set over multiple floors.

If you had chance to visit the Manneken Pis, then you may be interested to see his costumes which are on display here.

15. Marvel at the Atomium

The Atomium, located in Heysel Park in the West of the city, is a jaw dropping model of an atom which just happens to be a whopping 100 metres tall.

The sculpture was made in 1958 to welcome a new and atomic age to Belgium and is an accurate depiction of an iron molecule except that it is about 165 billion times larger! The glass roofed lift takes guests to the top in a time of only 20 seconds, there they can enjoy a beer and snack before descending.

Admission ticket can be booked here .

15 Best Things to Do in Brussels (Belgium):

• Be Inspired by the Grand Place
• Step back in time at the Old England Building
• Visit Brussel's Notre Dame Du Sablon
• Learn about lace in the Costume Museum
• Admire Le Botanique
• See the Palais Royal
• Laugh at the Manneken Pis
• Get your fill of art at the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts
• Relax in the Parc Du Cinquantenaire
• Enjoy a beer tour of Brussels
• Appreciate the lesser known history of Brussels
• See and be seen at Cafe Belga
• Enjoy the nightlife
• Learn about the city in the Broodhuis
• Marvel at the Atomium

Top Tours in Brussels, Belgium

Brussels tours.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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What travellers are saying.

62 Fun Things to Do in Brussels, Belgium

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Belgium’s capital is a buzzing hive of historical sights, swanky restaurants and world-class museums. If you like medieval architecture and craft beer, then you’ll love Brussels.

The city has many layers and peeling them back is all part of the adventure. It’s a place where politics and culture merge, to make you feel like you’re exploring the beating heart of Europe.

You can’t help but feel the city’s vast history oozing through its ancient walls, forts and cobbled streets, and its earliest foundations date back to the 10th century, in 979 CE.

Exploring art galleries displaying famous works of art, meandering through the hallways of palaces, and snapping inspiring photographs of centuries-old cathedrals and other structures dating to the Middle Ages, are all part of its allure.

Calling Brussels home base, there are fantastic day trips to adventure and within a couple of hours, land up in a new country entirely!

Looking for more obscure things to do in Brussels ? Then scroll down to find out where you can climb inside a giant atom, go urban diving and discover statues that pee!

1 – Begin your adventure at Grand Place

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in the center of Brussels is where you should start your explorations. Dating to the 15th century and lined with striking guild houses, Grand Place boasts the best architecture in town.

The Town Hall is the focal point, with its ornate tower providing a handy landmark if you get lost. Meanwhile, behind the doors of the magnificent Brussels City Museum , you’ll discover masterpieces and artifacts showcasing local history.

Don’t miss the Flower Carpet festival – a must-see for flowers lovers.

• walking tours in Brussels

2 – Soak up the views from the Atomium

Climbing inside a giant atom isn’t an everyday sort of experience, but it’ll be one of your most memorable Brussels moments. Constructed in 1958 for the World’s Fair, the Atomium represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It quickly became a city icon.

You can explore the spheres, which hold exhibitions and even a restaurant right at the top. The science is fascinating, but the 360-degree panoramas are even more mind-blowing.

• Atomium tours in Brussels

3 – Listen to exhibits at the Musical Instruments Museum

Architecture aficionados love visiting the Old England Building with its unusual Art Nouveau façade. Inside you’ll discover the Musical Instruments Museum , where 2000 exhibits vie for your attention.

It’s about listening as well as looking, with audio experiences transporting you to other places and times. Don’t miss the shepherds’ bagpipes, the African drums, or the quirky theremin. There might be a concert on during your visit so do check the schedule.

• Musical Instruments Museum tickets

4 – Make a pilgrimage to the Church of Our Lady of Victories

Dominating the historic center of Brussels, the Church of Our Lady of Victories in the Sablon district makes a worthy photo stop. Marvel at the flamboyant 15th-century Gothic carvings, then pop inside to appreciate the huge scale of the building. Prepare to be wowed!

See how the light brings the stained-glass windows to life, and feel at peace as you wander through the spiritual Baroque chapels.

5 – Take a hop-on hop-off bus tour

See the city sights in style as you cruise the historic streets on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. You’ll be stopping at all the major landmarks, so you can pick and choose which to visit.

This is a great option for travelers who like their independence as well as hassle-free sightseeing. Will you be checking out the Grand Place or the Atomium, or is the Royal Palace more your cup of tea?

• bus tours in Brussels

6 – Explore the Palais Royal

Of all the things to do in Brussels, visiting the Royal Palace is one of the most memorable. Standing imperiously at the end of a landscaped park, the King’s residence is the heart of royal life in Belgium.

You can take a guided tour during summer and imagine for a few moments what it would be like living here. Have your fill of marble staircases, gilded mirrors and glittering staterooms as you explore.

7 – Cycle through the Parc du Cinquantenaire

Discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems as you pedal through historic neighborhoods on a small-group bike tour. Swing by the Grand Place and European Parliament before stopping for fries to keep your energy levels topped up.

The star of the show is the stately Cinquantenaire Park. Built in 1880 to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence, these manicured gardens are dominated by the Triumphal Arch. Climb to the top and enjoy the view.

• bike tours in Brussels

8 – Browse the Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

Put yourself in the shoes of famous painters as you consider some of the most prestigious artworks in Europe. The Royal Museums of Fine Art are home to over 20,000 exhibits, each telling their own unique story.

Magritte Museum (#35) has the largest collection of works by the Belgian Surrealist. Fin-de-Siècle Museum will take you back to the effervescent 1900s, when Art Nouveau and impressionism ruled the roost.

The Oldmasters Museum covers the uniquely creative 15th to 18th centuries. Wiertz Museum features classic works by the controversial Romantic painter and sculptor.

Meunier Museum is dedicated to the Realist artist. And for a glimpse into the latest developments, visit the Modern Museum .

9 – Bring your significant other to Candlelight concerts

Picture a room lit up by hundreds of candles as artists on stage perform classical music ballads, famous composers are celebrated front and center or ballet signatures are performed.

If this utterly romantic feature sounds like your cup of tea, be sure to bring your honey to one of the candlelight concerts happening in Brussels for a night of romance, and culture.

These special concerts, in fact, operate worldwide, from cities around the globe from New York to Amsterdam to Abu Dhabi to Quebec, and now you can witness the spectacle while traveling in the capital city of Belgium.

Picking iconic locations around town where the performance is set up, there are multiple tribute candlelight concerts to choose from in Brussels. Sit back and enjoy an ode to Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker in Auderghem, rock out to your favorite Queen songs at the Memorial of the Battle of Waterloo 1815, or fill your ears with the music of Hans Zimmer or Stromae at the Atomium.

Whatever your pick, it’ll be a night to remember.

• candlelight concerts in Brussels

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All Aboard the Titanic Exhibition in Brussels

Step inside Titanic: The Exhibition, the largest of its kind in Brussels. This extensive exhibition, enriched by 260 authentic artifacts and life-size reconstructions, invites you to relive the Titanic saga and the unforgettable night of April 14, 1912. Experience the stories of passengers who witnessed that fateful night, through an immersive display designed for families and history buffs alike.

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10 – Taste the best chocolate in town

Delve into the scrumptious world of Belgian chocolate on a fun-packed tour at Choco-Story Brussels . You’ll learn how the humble cocoa bean was transformed into chocolatey goodness by the Aztecs and the Mayans. It’s their legacy that allows us to indulge in this sweet treat today.

Take a tour around the museum and then get hands-on in the chocolate workshop. Making pralines and lollipops is your first step to becoming a master chocolatier.

• chocolate tasting in Brussels

11 – Relax at Brussels Park

Looking for a green space in the city center for a stroll or a picnic? Sprawling across 32 acres, the former royal hunting grounds at Brussels Park ticks all those boxes.

To enter, just find the Belgian House of Parliament and follow the wide avenue down to the large pond. You’ll enjoy views of three of the major landmarks in Brussels: the Royal Palace, the Palace of Justice, and the Place du Trône.

12 – Feel like a giant at Mini-Europe Park

One of the unmissable things to do in Brussels for families is to visit Mini-Europe Park . Travel the world as you explore the tiny kingdoms with their scale models.

See the miniatures of Big Ben in London, the Acropolis in Athens, and the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Visual and sound effects bring it all to life – don’t miss the eruption of Mount Vesuvius or the fall of the Berlin Wall!

• Mini-Europe park tickets

13 – Embrace politics at the Parlamentarium

Delve deep into the secretive world of politics at the world’s largest parliamentary visitor’s center in Brussels. You’ll learn all about the workings of the European Parliament as you take a self-guided tour.

The Parlamentarium is free to enter and takes you on an eye-opening journey through centuries of European history. There’s a cinema showing 360-degree views of the continent and an interactive floor map offering a virtual tour of the member countries.

14 – Go super-sleuthing in an escape room

You’ll need to muster all your detective powers to emerge triumphant from the escape rooms in Brussels. There are several themed scenarios to choose from, some indoors and others out in the city.

You might be robbing banks and escaping with swag bags, or prowling around bars in the search for redemption. Find clues and solve puzzles as you battle against the clock on your mysterious mission. Do you have what it takes?

• escape rooms in Brussels

Return to the Jurassic era at Dinos Alive

Journey back millions of years ago and encounter realistic dinosaurs that once roamed the earth. At Dinos Alive, you can walk among life-size moving replicas of a T-rex, stegosaurus and velociraptor among 80 other specimens. Interactive and educational, this is the perfect outing for families and kids!

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15 – Let off steam at Train World

Surround yourself with vintage railway locomotives as you explore the city’s famous Train World at the old Schaarbeek station. A highlight is the 19th-century “Pays de Waes” – Europe’s oldest preserved steam train.

Glimpse into the past as you wander through the post carriage and visit the authentic railway cottage by the side of the tracks. You’ll discover the stories of those who worked on the trains and the passengers who used them.

• Train World tickets

16 – Walk around Mont des Arts

Connecting upper and lower Brussels, Mont des Arts has one of the best panoramas in town. Just head up the steps towards the fountain and get your camera ready! Come at sunset for a splash of romance.

Art lovers will enjoy strolling around this elegant city garden, stopping at monuments, and enjoying a bit of fresh air. Stunning architecture surrounds the park, with the bell tower of the local Neoclassical church dominating the skyline.

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17 – Scout out unusual sculptures

Keep an eye out for some of the city’s most quirky sculptures as you explore the historic center. First up is the Manneken Pis, a bronze statuette known as “Little Julian” who tinkles into a fountain.

Next is the Jeanneke Pis, which features a young girl squatting and peeing over a limestone rock. You can see there’s a bit of a theme here! A urinating bronze dog called Het Zinneke is the grand finale.

18 – Take a day tour to Bruges and Ghent

Escape the Brussels bustle with a day trip to the enchanting cities of Bruges and Ghent . Chocolate and lace are some of Bruges’ most famous exports but strolling the cobbled streets and cruising down the canals will reveal a different side to the city. Have a breather at the Lake of Love.

Over in Ghent, there’s enough medieval architecture to make your heart flutter, with cathedrals and castles stealing the show.

Hot tip: Check out our lists of fun things to do in Ghent , and fun things to do in Bruges .

19 – Get into the groove at the Hard Rock Cafe

Soak up the American vibe at this bustling restaurant that overlooks the Grand Place. You’ll be whisked away to an era of rock and roll, as you admire the memorabilia from Madonna and Elvis that adorns the Hard Rock Cafe interior.

Feast on burgers or mac and cheese before checking out the interactive wall for a global music tour. Leave room for the scrumptious chocolate brownies!

• Hard Rock Cafe Brussels

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

20 – Visit Antwerp on a day trip

Another worthy day tour from Brussels takes you to Antwerp, the diamond and fashion capital of Belgium.

You’ll explore the diamond district and learn how to cut these sparkly jewels in the workshop. Then there’s time for some retail therapy on “The Meir” before sipping artisan coffee in quaint cafes.

If you are traveling with kids, there are many family-friendly things to do in Antwerp , such as visiting the Zoo Antwerpen or taking a tour of Chocolate Nation.

Don’t miss Napoleon’s palace or the towering Gothic cathedral. Watching the sunset over the ancient port is the icing on the cake.

• Antwerp day trips from Brussels

21 – Browse the Comics Art Museum

Immerse yourself in a world of make-believe at the Comics Art Museum , which honors Belgian and internationally renowned creators. If you’re looking for quirky things to do in Brussels, this is it!

Travel through the mysterious realm of Midam, go adventuring with the Smurfs, and say hi to Tintin. The Art Nouveau building is spectacular too so remember to look up. Want some souvenirs? Then pop into the shop for comic books and figurines.

22 – Explore historic Amsterdam

Bag two countries in one day as you take a trip to The Netherlands for a jaunt around its vibrant capital city. Experience Amsterdam like a local by cycling through the quaint streets or hop on a boat for an iconic canal cruise.

Pause on a bridge for that all-important Instagram photo and admire the 17 th -century gabled houses that line the waterways. Then chill out with stroopwaffels and coffee in a trendy café.

• Amsterdam day trips from Brussels

23 – Find peace at Brussels Cathedral

Tick off the most important monument in Brussels, as you wander around the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral . Like many of its European counterparts, Brussels Cathedral is Gothic in style, with all the stained-glass windows you could wish for.

This grandiose masterpiece survived a sacking by French Revolutionaries and today is the main Catholic church in the country. Highlights include a stunning Baroque pulpit and a collection of ancient chalices and crosses.

24 – Taste local delicacies on a food tour

One of the best things to do in Brussels for foodies is to engage in a dedicated culinary tour around the city where you’ll be introduced to the local flavors and foods.

Whether you’re after a short introduction to the local cuisine or a more in-depth excursion, choose from an array of food tours — varying in time or the foodie-centric activities you will do.

There are food walking tours that span three to four hours and setting off on foot, your expert gastronomic guide leads the way to the best local taverns, cafes and restaurants where you will sample classic Belgium bites from steamed mussels to frites to Belgian chocolate to waffles.

Some tours combine sightseeing escapades in between all the dining and eating or pick a beer and food pairing adventure.

Food tours are available during the day, as well as in the evenings.

• food tours in Brussels

Stepping Into Surrealism: The Magritte Immersive Experience

“Magritte: The Immersive Experience” is an extraordinary exhibition that takes you on a vivid journey through the genius of René Magritte, from his Abstract Period to his iconic Surrealist creations. With over 300 masterpieces on display, the show utilizes cutting-edge 4K technology and virtual reality to immerse you in a 360-degree digital experience. This interactive showcase promises an unparalleled exploration of Magritte’s surreal universe, where art transcends reality.

25 – Discover Luxembourg and Dinant

Another worthy day trip from Brussels takes you over the border into Luxembourg for a whirlwind tour of the top city sights.

Feel like you’re stepping back in time as you explore the Old Town. The Royal Palace, the European Court of Justice, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are all must-sees.

You’ll stop in the pretty Belgian town of Dinant on your way back with free time to check out the ancient citadel. Don’t forget your camera!

26 – Check out Keukenhof and Delft

There’s nothing that says The Netherland more than tulips and pottery, and you can enjoy both on a day trip from Brussels.

Walk through tulip fields on the Keukenhof Estate, where reds, pinks, and yellows stretch for miles. You’ll learn about how these 7 million flowers are grown as you tour the gardens.

Over in Delft, it’s time for pretty canals, charming streets, and shopping for the exquisite local pottery in craft boutiques.

• Keukenhof day trips from Brussels

27 – Feel the thrills at Bobbejaanland

For a fun-filled family day out, head to Bobbejaanland which is just 90 minutes from Brussels. Founded by a popular Flemish musician, this quirky theme park has over 40 attractions to enjoy.

Practice your swagger in the cowboy town and brave a virtual reality journey deep inside a fiery volcano if you dare. Then hit the roller coasters in the Land of Legends or take on the Big Bang flume in your rubber ring.

28 – Breathe in the fresh air of the Sonian Forest

If trees could talk, the Sonian Forest is where you’ll find them! This ancient woodland sprawls across 5000 acres, with 40% of it lying in the Brussels area. There are several nature reserves to discover making it a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Hike the forest trails and see what wildlife you can spot, or head to the fishing lakes and see if you can land a carp.

29 – Admire classic cars at Autoworld

Autoworld is your chance to get up close and personal with cars that were once used by Belgian royalty. See your reflection in the shiny finish of limousines and Bentleys, and imagine what it would be like to take the wheel of a 1930s Bugatti.

There are 250 vehicles to check out, giving you a peek into the transformational story of the motor car. Don’t miss the authentic workshop and the sports car paddocks.

• Autoworld tickets

Immerse yourself into the world of Banksy!

Looking for an intriguing artistic experience in the heart of the city? Step into the world of Banksy and take a journey through murals, drawings and projections in the largest collection of recreated life-size works by the acclaimed anonymous street artist. Secure your ticket now and immerse yourself in the mysteries surrounding the famed creator.

30 – Meet dinosaurs at the Museum of Natural Sciences

What do you call a tribe of Iguanodons? We’re not sure either, but it’s fun guessing as you explore the Museum of Natural Sciences . As well as gawping at the impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons, you’ll learn about the evolution of humankind too.

The giant crystals in the Mineral Hall will surely grab your attention, while over in the Living Planet exhibition you’ll come closer to discovering the meaning of life.

31 – Have the ride of your life at Walibi Belgium

Scream in delight as you zoom along on some of the country’s most fearsome roller coasters. Walibi Belgium is one of the top amusement parks in the region, with something for both families and thrill-seekers.

Test your nerves on the mighty Buzzsaw and hang on tight as you plunge down the precipitous Werewolf. Meanwhile, kids can meet the kangaroo mascot, ride on mini trains, and whirl around on carousel swings.

32 – Take a trip to Waterloo

The Battle of Waterloo is one of the most well-known in history books, and did you know, the small town of Waterloo is located just 30 minutes from Brussels?

For a historically-enriching activity, and an eye-opening experience, take a tour around the famous area, located south of the city.

Overthrowing Napoleon and ending the era of the Napoleonic Wars, the Battle of Waterloo took place on Sunday 18 June 1815 and there are monuments and sites to explore today that illustrate a clearer picture of the momentous occasion in time.

Warheads, begin by exploring the actual battleground where the infamous conflict took place, walk up the man-made hill, Lion’s Mound, for views, and see the Brocante du Lion monument — there is a Visitor’s Center at the start of the incline.

Stop by the Wellington Museum — once headquarters to the Duke of Wellington (a commanding officer in the battle) — or explore the opponent’s headquarters La Belle Alliance (a former inn used by Napoleon).

Investigate Hougoumont Farm where the majority of the battle took place, and pay your respects at the Gordon Monument.

A few hours are required to explore all of the historic points of interest around here.

• Waterloo day trips from Brussels

33 – Wander through Laeken Park

The former royal stomping grounds of Laeken Park now incorporate several gardens and estates. Landscaped in the English style, Laeken was the setting for the 1958 Universal Exposition.

Stroll around the fragrant Florists’ Garden, which still has greenhouses dating back to the time of King Leopold II. You’ll enjoy spectacular city views from here too.

Other highlights include the greenery theater in Osseghem Park and the Castle of Laeken which is still a royal residence.

34 – Make friends with meerkats at Pairi Daiza Zoo

Meeting the wild residents of the Zoo de Pairi Daiza is one of the top family-friendly things to do in Brussels. This animal theme park is home to thousands of creatures, including elephants, panthers, and hippos.

Journey around the world as you amble through the different habitats. You’ll understand the meaning of “cute” as the giant pandas charm you in the Chinese Gardens, while orangutans strike some poses in Ganesha’s Kingdom.

35 – Step into the mind of the artist at the Magritte Museum

Calling all of our art aficionados or lovers of the curious Surrealist movement … You’re in for a serious treat at the Magritte Museum — home to the largest collection of work by the artist himself, René Magritte.

Surrealism is all about the bizarre, and alongside Magritte, other famous artists from this 20th-century movement include Dali.

Born in 1898, Magritte began creating surrealist art in 1926, and throughout the years, he covered a variety of mixed mediums from paintings to sculptures to drawings — all of which are on display at the museum.

Home to these original artworks within the museum’s permanent collections (as well as its digitized modern exhibitions) uncover the world of the artist through more than 230 artworks on show, and those in the archives.

• Magritte Museum tickets

36 – Seek out nature at Meise Botanic Garden

Hidden away in the grounds of Bouchout Castle, you’ll find the pretty Meise Botanic Garden . Allow plenty of time for your visit as it’s one of the biggest gardens in the world with over 18,000 plant species.

Head to the glasshouses for a dose of the tropics where orchids and exotic flowers will capture your imagination. Kids love the Evolution House which recreates the land of the dinosaurs, complete with bubbling mud.

37 – Take an Art Nouveau tour

See Brussels in a different light on an immersive Art Nouveau guided tour. You’ll find out how this striking architectural style has influenced so much of the city’s visual heritage, with stops at all the top photo spots.

The Bailli district is home to some of the fanciest houses, while the Grand Place gets top marks for scale. Finish up at the Victor Horta Museum which celebrates the life of this acclaimed Belgian architect.

• art nouveau tours in Brussels

38 – Delve into history at the BELvue Museum

As the capital of both Belgium and the EU, Brussels is one of the world’s most prominent cities. That’s why the BELvue Museum is now shining a light on its history, as well as its role in democracy.

Open to everyone from schoolchildren to seniors, the BELvue Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions and over 200 unique objects, providing an opportunity to understand the city’s culture, heritage and society.

Visitors can attend for free on Wednesdays and the first Sunday of the month, making this an accessible and enlightening outing for the whole family.

39 – Delve into virtual reality

Brussels may be famous for its history, but when it comes to VR, it’s all about the future!

It’s not just the technology itself that’s impressive, but also the amazing scenarios that you can explore; you might find yourself navigating a space station, or navigating the whole spectrum of human history, right up to wild robot battles.

So strap on your headset and indulge in an adventure beyond your wildest dreams!

• VR experience in Brussels

40 – Discover hidden gems on a scavenger hunt

If you’re after fun things to do in Brussels, why not take part in a scavenger game? You’ll be following clues to some of the top landmarks in the historic center, as well as exploring well off the beaten track.

There will be challenges to solve and trivia questions to answer in order to complete your mission. This is a walking tour with a difference – will you make it to the end?

• scavenger games in Brussels

41 – Refuel at the best cafes in Brussels

After hours of city exploring, or if you’re simply searching for a cute spot to grab a coffee and catch up on a good book, here are some of the best cafes in Brussels to visit.

For some of the yummiest speculoos in town, stop by Maison Dandoy and taste their generation-old famous recipe. The equivalent of a Biscoff, stock up on the biscuits before traveling home and then sit down for a classic Belgian waffle.

Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, La Fabrique en Ville sports a delightful, aesthetically pleasing setup, and the menu gladens on all fronts. Grab a seat at the outdoor terrace on Sundays for a three-course a la carte brunch.

With a focus on specialty coffee, sip back on some of the best brews in Brussels at My Little Cup .

Specializing in Belgium fries (i.e. frites), Café Georgette has a distinctive European look and feel on the sidewalk of a cobbled street, and the foods focus on the traditional at this cafe-come-restaurant.

Donned in an Art-Nouveau architectural style, Le Cirio is a classic Belgium brasserie, serving its patrons since 1886.

42 – Be inspired at the Horta Museum

Dedicated to the life and work of one of Belgium’s most illustrious artists, the Horta Museum is a must-see for all Art Nouveau admirers. As you explore the former home and workshop of Victor Horta, take a moment to appreciate the striking interior decoration.

There are brightly colored mosaics, intricate stained-glass windows, and swirling wall embellishments that really show off the Art Nouveau style. Would you recreate the look in your house?

43 – Visit the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

Sitting imperiously in Cinquantenaire Park, the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces tells the story of Belgium’s military history. There’s everything from medieval armor to an F-16 fighter jet on display.

Reach into the past as you gaze upon real army uniforms that once belonged to King Leopold I, and documents rescued from naval ships. Check out the big guns in the tank department before you leave.

44 – Fantasize at the Black Tower

Head to the Place Sainte-Catherine and check out the ancient city fortifications beside the small church.

This mysterious Black Tower is one of the few wall sections to survive the ravages of time and feels out of place overshadowed by modern developments.

Built in the 13th century, the tower is now overgrown with vegetation and looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Close your eyes and indulge in some Gothic fantasy.

45 – Travel through time at the Art and History Museum

Go on the trail of prehistoric axes and Egyptian mummies at the exquisite Art and History Museum. You’ll see a treasure trove of archaeological finds from across the world as you wander around the galleries.

Feel the weight of history as the exhibits reveal their stories to you. The Easter Island sculpture is one of the most powerful pieces, while Greek vases will conjure up visions of gods and warriors.

• Art and History Museum tickets

46 – Stroll around Petit Sablon Square

Petit Sablon Square is one of the prettiest gardens in the city. Just a short walk from the Church of Our Lady of Sablon, the square is a pocket of peace in this urban jungle.

Designed in 1890 by a local architect, the garden is watched over by 48 bronze statues paying homage to the long-lost medieval professions of Brussels. See if you can spot the stonecutter or the tallow maker as you explore.

47 – Photograph the open-air graffiti gallery of Anderlecht

To witness an explosion of color (and talent), the open-air graffiti gallery of Anderlecht — located underneath a highway inside the Parc des Etangs — is awe-inspiring.

Set up by local artists and with new graffiti masterpieces constantly being updated, snap endless photographs either of the brilliant artworks or posing alongside them.

Situated in the Anderlecht area, the Brussels Ring road crosses a bit of the park on the south side, and it’s the underneath of this pass that is covered in graffiti.

The large-scale art pieces are truly exceptional, painted or sprayed across entire blocks that comprise parts of the ring road’s foundation.

Artworks change every now and then, but the more impressive pieces are usually admired and kept up for longer, before the next artist arrives to do their thing and express their creativity.

48 – Celebrate plastic at the Design Museum Brussels

Had your fill of ancient history? Then make your way to the Design Museum Brussels for something a little more modern. The exhibitions here are dedicated to design work from the 20th and 21st centuries, with everything from plastic to scaffolding on display.

There are playful staircases, mind-boggling chairs, and galleries showcasing Belgian design. Functional yet beautiful, many of the pieces here have been seen nowhere else in the world.

• Design Museums tickets

49 – Explore the Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site

Walk in the footsteps of our ancestors as you explore the Coudenberg Palace Archaeological Site . Imagine what it must have felt like to scrape away at the soil around Place Royale and discover the remains of the former palace of Brussels.

The hairs on the back of your neck may stand to attention as you wander through the cellars and kitchens beneath the Rue Royale. Who else once roamed these corridors?

50 – Take a literal leap of faith with a round of skydiving

When you’re up in a plane, your first instinct might not be to jump out; but with a tandem skydive , that’s the whole idea!

4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above the ground, you’ll see an amazing panorama of rural Belgium and neighboring France – as you go flying towards them!

And while the parachute will help you glide safely to terra firma, the free fall beforehand is utterly exhilarating!

51 – Dive into the world of local literature at the Royal Library of Belgium

Calling all bookworms! Uncover the literary world of Belgium, or simply stop by to smell the hundreds of books (it’s totally a thing) at the Royal Library of Belgium.

Officially the country’s national housekeeping, the national scientific library is home to all varieties of Belgian publications and preserves.

Spanning a whopping 17 floors, their bookshelves display more than ‘8 million documents’, divided into categories, from Belgian bibliography to chalcography to music.

Opening recently in 2020, the KBR Museum is worth visiting and hosts the Library of the Dukes of Burgundy and manuscripts dating to the 15th century.

Afterward, pull up a rainbow-colored table and chair on the library’s rooftop terrace and enjoy the views.

52 – Visit the Basilique Nationale du Sacré-Coeur de Koekelberg

The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the fifth largest church in the world. It’s still used for major national celebrations and acts as a social and cultural hub for the community.

The church is a photogenic Art Deco monument, and the sheer size has to be seen to be believed. Climb up into the basilica dome for jaw-dropping panoramas over Brussels – this could be the best view in town!

53 – Sample traditional food at Fin de Siècle

This laid-back unassuming city eatery is a bit of an insider secret and a favorite with locals looking for a tasty evening out. Fin de Siècle serves up hearty portions of authentic Brussels cuisine, all washed down with a cold Belgian beer.

Tuck into piles of grilled shrimp and haunches of glazed ham while you reminisce about the day’s excitements. If you have room, give the tiramisu or mocha cake a whirl.

54 – Shop in the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Proudly situated in the heart of the city, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert  is the most celebrated shopping mall in Brussels.

Comprised of three galleries that are among the oldest in Europe, this eye-catching arcade is home to upmarket boutiques, confectionary shops, and traditional cafés.

Purchase gifts or treat yourself to a bit of bling, before taking in a show at the onsite theater. There’s a cinema too with all the latest releases.

55 – Go beer tasting at the Cantillon Brewery

Belgium is renowned throughout the world for its delectable beers, and there’s nowhere better to try some than here in Brussels.

Take a guided tour behind the scenes at Cantillon Brewery and discover the secret ingredients that make the beer so moreish. Check out the heritage machinery and modern operations at this friendly family-run business.

Don’t leave without tasting the authentic traditional Gueuze-Lambic brew, and maybe buy a bottle to take home.

56 – Shop at Maasmechelen Village

On the hunt for a day excursion from Brussels? Heading 1.5 hours outside the city center, Maasmechelen Village is a designer outlet shopping center, loved for its big brands at affordable prices.

Built on the borderlines of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, the whimsical-themed shopping complex comprises over 100 boutique stores and there is usually some sort of sale happening throughout the year.

Covering all categories from fashion to accessories to sneakers to homeware and interior delights, time truly flies by — arrive early to avoid the masses and queues.

Versace, New Balance, Fossil, Calvin Klein, Adidas, Clarins, Swarovski and The North Face are a touch of the luxury brands to shop among.

After all the shopping, if you’re feeling peckish, pick up something on-the-go from Chez Lulu, or stop for a sit-down meal at one of the other cafes or restaurants.

• shopping in Brussels

57 – Feast on mussels at Le Chou de Bruxelles

This cheerful little eatery in the pretty Ixelles district is the place to go for traditional Belgian cuisine. Le Chou de Bruxelles is a favorite with locals, so you know your evening is going to be spot on.

Try the famous Zeeland mussels – there are at least 30 variations to choose from! Not into seafood? Then tuck into duck drizzled with cherry beer or lamb shanks simmered in Leffe. Delicious!

58 – Go urban scuba diving at Nemo 33

Did you know you can go diving in Brussels? Nemo 33 was once the deepest indoor swimming pool in the world and today makes the perfect venue for a bit of city scuba diving.

Beginners can splash around on diving courses or snorkel sessions, while the experts can explore the depths to their heart’s content. Come on in, the water is warm and there are no sharks to worry about!

59 – Enjoy the views from the historic Halle Gate

Feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale as you explore the medieval rooms inside the 600-year-old Halle Gate .

This ancient monument is all that remains of the second city wall. It’s home to a remarkable collection of artifacts and displays documenting the fortification history of Brussels.

Climb up to the top of this Neo-Gothic fort and walk along the crenelated ramparts. The views out over Brussels are superb.

60 – Experience the beer scene of Brussels on a pub crawl

Brussels knows a thing or two about beer, so going on a pub crawl or beer tasting with a local guide is a must for lovers of the iconic amber nectar. You’ll be stopping by trendy bars and authentic old taverns, including some hidden gems that few tourists ever experience.

Learn how to distinguish a Belgian beer from its European counterparts, and discover the process behind the country’s unique brewing style.

• pub crawls in Brussels

61 – Enjoy live music at Le Botanique

What do you do with a former orangery belonging to the National Botanic Garden? Why, turn it into a music venue of course!

Visiting Le Botanique is one of the top things to do in Brussels for those who enjoy live shows and art exhibitions.

It’s a great place to discover emerging artists, and in May there’s a music festival featuring international and local musicians. Book tickets in advance as it’s very popular.

62 – Watch the sunset from the best rooftop bars

As the daytime begins to draw to a close, and the sun starts to set over the horizon, head to one of Brussels’ best rooftop bars — not only limited to sunset hour!

For some of the most unique and delicious cocktails, Perché Rooftop Bar is where it’s at. Arrive for the views, take a dip in the skinny rooftop pool in summer and heat up by the fire in wintertime.

Overlooking the Grand Palace, the Secret Rooftop by Warwick is located on the sixth floor of the four-star Warwick Brussels hotel. Open from 5 PM onwards, they sure know how to make a delicious cocktail or two.

Enjoy a glass of vino and mezze-style bites at The 1040 , and the elegant setting is also home to a gorgeous restaurant. The laid-back yet charming atmosphere up on the rooftop is great for sundowners.

How to get to Brussels?

The main airport is Brussels Airport where international and domestic flights land. Before you arrive in the capital city, pre-organize airport transfers for the moment you touch down and eliminate the hassle of organizing taxis or other transport once you’re ready to leave the airport.

Upon arrival, your private driver awaits you and will transport you directly to your accommodation in comfort and ease.

Where to stay in Brussels?

Have you considered a hotel yet to make your base when traveling in Brussels? Here are some of the best hotels and boutique stays to choose from.

Boasting a great location, the Radisson Collection, Grand Place Brussels is clean and contemporary and offers rooms and suites that are ultra-spacious and comfortable.

Another winner in the middle of the city center, Hotel Amigo is filled with rich interiors and is a beautiful stay all-round.

Upmarket and with all the designer amenities from a Nespresso machine to super plush beds, the Sofitel Brussels Europe never disappoints.

With tons of restaurants and cafes nearby, travelers that prefer old-school charm, fall in love with the splendid Stanhope Hotel by Thon Hotels .

Fill your lives with pops of color at The Dominican , achieved in the bounds of colorful furniture or art decorating the walls and interiors.

Expect lovely balcony views and rooms done up in cozy, dark woods and luxurious leathers at the Eurostars Montgomery .

Away from the hustle and bustle, the five-star Juliana Hotel Brussels is built inside a gorgeous building and you can expect all the extras and comforts at this stay.

From the incredible service to the fanciful finishes, the Manos Premier hotel is a prime example of classic European design, stylishly fusing the past and present.

A perfect pick for the trendy traveler, the modern Harmon Guest House is a gorgeous boutique stay that couples especially love. Plus, if the details matter to you, the bathrooms are amazing!

• best hotels in Brussels

Visiting Brussels on a budget?

Discover the wonders that the city of Brussels hides and the local secrets with some free walking tour .

For more ways to save and if you’re visiting the city for a few days, it might be worth purchasing the Brussels City Card . This gives you free access to top attractions, discounts on some tours and in shops, as well as skip-the-line tickets.

Where to go next?

After your time in the culturally-enriching European city is done, decide where to head afterward.

The continent is great for traveling easily from one country to the next. For example, driving just a few hours from Brussels, reach nearby cities in new countries.

2.5 hours from the capital, cross the border into the Netherlands, and straight to the capital city, where there are many other fun things to do in Amsterdam from touring famous breweries to museums to historic districts.

Or, visit another major Dutch city instead, like Rotterdam , situated even closer than Amsterdam. Ideal for a day trip too, it takes one hour and 45 minutes to reach by car from Brussels.

Final thoughts?

From historical moments in time to fascinating museums that cater to all ages, whether young or old, the plethora of things to do in Brussels always leaves travelers feeling satisfied on all fronts — from the sightseeing options to the foodie scene.

Have you ever visited Brussels before? What are your favorite places to visit in the capital city of Belgium? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know.

As always, happy and safe travels!

23 BEST Things to Do in Brussels (+Map & Insider Tips for Top Places)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 4, 2023

Visiting Belgium’s capital city for the first time and wondering what to see and do in Brussels? In this article, you can find our recommendations for the very best places to see and things to do in Brussels. It will help you to make the most of your trip and explore the city just a bit deeper. Take a look!

Good to know: We are from Belgium and have lived in and near Brussels for several years. So I can immediately tell you that there’s so much more to see in Brussels than you’d ever be able to cover on a short visit… Therefore, in this guide, we mostly focus on the most popular attractions that first-time visitors shouldn’t miss .

For each place and activity, we also share our insider tips and recommendations.

Read on to learn more about the most beautiful places to see in Brussels, the very best things to do, and the most typical Belgian experiences that will make your trip more memorable!

TIP: In order to help you plan your trip, we also created this map indicating all the best places to visit in Brussels. That way, you can see where everything is located and can easier plan your sightseeing itinerary.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: We list the main landmarks and tourist attractions in the center of Brussels first, followed by places a bit further away.

In addition to all the ‘must-sees’, we include some of the most typical Belgian food experiences as well. After all, no visit to Brussels would be complete without tasting Belgian waffles, beer, or trying moules-frites . Find out!

BEST OF BRUSSELS IN A NUTSHELL: * MUST-SEE: Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Royal Galleries, Mont des Arts, Royal Palace, and Magritte Museum . * FUN TO DO: Belgian Beer World , Atomium , Mini-Europe , EU headquarters, food tours . * MUST TRY: Brussels waffles, moules-frites, Belgian beers, and Belgian chocolate. * WHERE TO STAY:  See our guide to the best areas to stay in Brussels and also to the most popular hotels in Brussels . * DAY TRIPS:   Bruges , WWI Battlefields , Antwerp . Best day tour – Ghent & Bruges in a day .

Here are the best things to do in Brussels:

1. Grand Place & Brussels Town Hall

If there is one place that you absolutely have to see in Brussels, it’s the Grand Place (or de Grote Markt , in Dutch). Grand Place is the main town square of Brussels, home to the impressive Brussels Town Hall and the most beautiful guild houses in the world.

Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. Even if this would be the only place you see in Brussels, Grand Place is worth a trip on its own!

Brussels Grand Place is amazing at any time of the day and in any season. Lots of big events take place here, including the annual Brussels Christmas Market in winter and the bi-annual Brussels Flower Carpet in summer. Often, there are (free) light and music shows at the town square in the evenings. It’s always magical!

But even if there is nothing special going on, I recommend visiting Grand Place during the day and also in the dark. The buildings are beautifully lit at night and it’s well worth coming back for it.

Practical info: You can visit Grand Place at any time and it’s free of charge. Brussels Town Hall can also be visited inside, but only with a guided tour that runs just a few days a week. More info here .

2. Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Brussels! In fact, there is not one, but two connecting galleries – Galerie du Roi (Gallery of the King) and Galerie de la Reine (Gallery of the Queen).

Opened in 1847, these impressive galleries not only transformed the formerly poorer part of the city, but also put Brussels on the map as one of the greatest cities in Europe at that time. It quickly became the place to see and to be seen, attracting the rich and the famous. The former Café des Arts (now Taverne du Passage) was a popular meeting place for writers and artists, such as Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, and many others.

Nowadays, this impressive arcade houses many luxury boutique shops, beautiful cafés, and stores selling local delicacies and traditional Belgian chocolates. Inside, you’ll also find the Cinéma des Galeries, the historic movie theatre dating from 1939.

Practical info: The Royal Galleries are always open and it doesn’t cost anything to walk through them. The shops and the restaurants inside have varying opening times.

3. Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis (the peeing boy) is the quirky symbol of Brussels. And while you’ll most likely be underwhelmed by the sight of this tiny statue, it’s one of the main landmarks of Brussels that every first-time visitor absolutely has to see.

A popular legend has it that a small boy stopped a fire from spreading in Brussels by peeing on it. And so the city was saved and the little peeing boy became its symbol. However, this is just one story and the origins of Manneken-Pis could be totally different – see below)…

The current statue dates from the early 17th century, but archives show that there was a similar fountain here as early as the 14th century.

Manneken Pis is normally naked, but he also has a huge collection of costumes that he wears for a variety of different occasions. He received his first set of clothes in the late 17th century and his oldest surviving costumes date from the 18th century.

Nowadays, Manneken Pis has over 1000 costumes, with 20-30 new items added to the collection every year. If you want to see his wardrobe and learn more about this peculiar little statue, check out the museum GardeRobe Manneken Pis .

LEARN MORE: The Real Story of Manneken-Pis in Brussels

TIP: If you have the time, you may also want to locate the statue of a little peeing girl – Jeanneke-Pis . While not as famous as Manneken Pis and usually locked behind metal bars, this little fountain has always been a popular ‘hidden gem’ in Brussels. If you want to check it out, I indicated its location on our map above.

And no, that’s not all. Brussels has something with ‘urinating’ statues. There is also a Zinneke Pis , which is a statue of a peeing dog. This – for now – completes the trio of peeing statues of Brussels. But tourists sure seem to like them, so I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a few more of those appearing in the future.

Practical info: You can see Manneken Pis and other statues at any time and there is no fee. If you are interested in the museum, check the above link for more information.

4. Brussels Cathedral

One of the most impressive buildings of Brussels – St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral – is another must-see in the city. It’s just 5 minutes walk from Grand Place and well worth the short detour.

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral is the main church of Belgium, where all the Royal religious ceremonies take place. This is where Belgian Royals get married, princes and princesses are baptized, etc.

The exterior of the Cathedral is really impressive. However, it’s very hard to appreciate its beauty because it’s literally squeezed in between different streets and buildings, which makes it difficult to see it in its full grandeur. The front façade is best visible as there is a small square in front of it, giving you a better perspective in order to admire this colossal building.

The interior of the Cathedral is beautiful too and can be appreciated much easier than its exterior.

Practical info: The Cathedral is open daily and you can visit freely. So if there’s no Mass celebration at that time, definitely take a look inside.

5. Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts (Hill of the Arts) is a little hill in the center of Brussels, offering one of the best viewpoints of the city . As you walk the stairs all the way to the top, you get to see a beautiful panorama of the Brussels skyline. This is the typical postcard view of Brussels.

Historically, this hill connected the lower working-class part of the city with the upper part where aristocrats used to live. The Royal Palace of Brussels can be found on top of the hill, whereas the Town Hall can be seen below.

At the bottom of the hill, you’ll find the statue of Belgium’s King Albert I and the landscaped Mont des Arts Garden . Another thing to look out for is the Carillon of Mont des Arts . It has 24 bells and an impressive star-shaped clock, but is a bit hidden out of sight and often overlooked by first-time visitors. However, it’s also well worth seeing, so make a little effort to locate it. You can find it on the eastern side of the archway above the street of Mont des Arts.

Practical info: All these places are outdoors and can be seen at any time. Also, don’t worry about the stairs – this is not a steep hill at all. Furthermore, if you don’t want or can’t do the stairs, you can just take the sidewalk of Mont des Arts Street that brings you to the top of the hill.

6. Musical Instruments Museum

Just at the top of the Mont des Arts, stands an impressive Art-Nouveau-style building that houses the Museum of Musical Instruments (MMI). This is one of the most beautiful examples of the Art Nouveau architecture that Brussels is famous for.

MMI has been established in 1877 and now has over 7000 musical instruments from all over the world and from many different periods. This is one of my personal favorite museums in Brussels.

Every visitor receives headphones that start to play the music of the instrument near you. This makes the visit even more special.

But even if you have no time to visit the museum inside, you really shouldn’t miss this beautiful building. It’s located on the popular tourist route anyway, so no need to make an extra effort or get out of your way for it.

Practical info: The museum is open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. For more up-to-date information and opening times, please check the official website . This is one of the museums that’s included with the Brussels Card .

7. Royal Palace & Place Royale

Belgium is a monarchy and we have a beautiful Royal Palace right in the middle of Brussels. The Royal Family actually lives in another palace in Laken, on the outskirts of Brussels. The palace in the city center is where the Belgian King works. It’s also used for various ceremonies, state dinners, and other official occasions.

Normally, you can only admire the palace from the outside. Nevertheless, it’s worth passing by here because it’s a truly impressive building. Also, you can’t really miss the Place Royale Bruxelles , a big square with an equestrian statue of Godefroid de Bouillon in front of the Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg Church .

Good to know: The Royal Palace is only open for visitors for a brief period of time in the summer. It opens to the public after the 21 st of July (Belgian National Holiday) and stays open until the last week of August. You can visit every day except Monday and it’s free of charge. If you happen to be in Brussels during this time, it’s definitely worth a visit, but be prepared for the crowds.

8. Brussels Park

Right in front of the Royal Palace, there is a nice small city park – Royal Park , also known as Brussels Park . Located on the former hunting grounds that in the past were reserved for the aristocracy, this public park was established in the 18th century.

Brussels Park is quite small and you can see everything in 15-30 minutes. It has several fountains and beautiful statues, and you can escape the hustle and the bustle of the city for a few moments here. There are also one or two cozy outdoor cafés in the park.

Practical info: The park is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM, and is free to enter. It’s more lively in the afternoons and on the weekends.

9. Petit Sablon Neighborhood

Just a short walk from the main tourist attractions, in the heart of Brussels, lies a very nice local neighborhood called Petit Sablon . It’s an area where historic architecture and modern artsy lifestyle mingle to create a very unique atmosphere. This is one of the nicest, trendier, but also very local parts of Brussels.

Don’t miss the Église Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon (Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon). It’s one of the most beautiful churches in Brussels! The little park at the Square du Petit Sablon , just opposite the street from the church, is also very nice. Don’t miss it.

For the rest, just stroll through the neighborhood, following the information panels that indicate all the main sights. One of my favorite places here is the town square Place du Grand Sablon . It’s lined with art galleries, trendy boutiques, artsy cafes, and luxury chocolatiers. On the weekends, this is where you’ll find Brussel’s most famous antique market.

10. Rue des Bouchers

Probably the most famous restaurant street in Belgium, Rue des Bouchers is another top tourist attraction in Brussels. It’s a colorful, lively pedestrian street, packed with bars and restaurants. Most of them offer all kinds of seafood, and you’ll see impressive displays of shellfish on ice all over the place.

Most restaurants here are really oriented towards tourists, with pictures on the menu, food displays, and waiters trying to convince you to sit down at their restaurant. It will take some willpower to cross this street without actually sitting down for a meal. But it’s also a very well-known place to see in Brussels, so even if you don’t plan to eat here, you should definitely check this street out!

Good to know: Rue des Bouchers is a popular place to try the traditional Belgian ‘moules-frites’ (mussels and fries) . However, in general, you’ll get better value for money in the more local restaurants. The best season for Belgian mussels is from the beginning of July to around mid-April.

11. Place de la Bourse & Belgian Beer World

Place de la Bourse (Stock Exchange Square) is a town square in front of the old Brussels Stock Exchange building. It’s a popular place for all kinds of events and also political demonstrations.

The Stock Exchange building itself doesn’t really have an official name and is often simply called Palais de la Bourse (the Stock Exchange Palace).

This colossal 19th-century building has an impressive facade that makes you think of Greek temples. It’s even guarded by lion statues on the sides. After year-long renovations, the building is now beautifully restored and is home to the newest attraction in Brussels – Belgian Beer World .

This is an interactive family-friendly exhibition that introduces you to Belgian beer culture. At the end of the visit, you get to sample some beer at the Sky Bar. The bar is located on a beautiful rooftop terrace and offers nice city views – another great reason to come here.

Practical information: Stock Exchange Square is located just near Grand Place, so it’s really easy to include a visit here in any itinerary. If you want to visit Belgian Beer World, you can find more information and get tickets here .

Good to know: During the opening hours of the museum, you can only visit the rooftop terrace with a ticket. But in the evenings, when the museum is closed, you can go up to the Sky Bar for free.

12. Saint Catherine & Fish Market

Another really nice and more local area to see in the Brussels city center is the Saint Catherine neighborhood . It’s concentrated around the Saint Catherine Church and several town squares. The best-known square is Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market), where the old Brussels port used to be.

There is no actual fish market here. However, this part of Brussels is also a good place for (sea)food lovers and you’ll find many restaurants and cafes lining the streets. If locals go for seafood in Brussels, they’ll likely come here and not to Rue des Bouchers. Prices tend to be higher here as well, but you also can expect better quality.

In winter, this is one of the places where the Brussels Christmas market takes place. And in summer, you’ll find a lively area with outdoor restaurant terraces and a very pleasant vibe.

TIP: Don’t miss the Tour Noire (the Black Tower), a restored medieval tower surrounded by modern buildings.

13. Atomium

While most of the main Brussels tourist attractions mentioned above can be found in the city center, the most remarkable landmark of Brussels – the Atomium – requires a separate visit. It’s located on the western side of Brussels and can be reached by metro or with a hop-on hop-off bus (more info on the bus below).

The Atomium was built in 1958 as the flagship building of the Brussels World’s Fair, Expo 58. The nine spheres represent an iron crystal (magnified 165 billion times) and it was supposed to be torn down soon after the event, but it quickly became an unmistakable symbol of Brussels. It has recently been renovated, looks more impressive than ever before, and nobody can imagine the city without the Atomium anymore.

At the moment, Atomium is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brussels. It’s impressive both, from the outside and well as on the inside. Inside, you’ll find is a museum, a panoramic restaurant, and a magnificent 360° panorama with unparalleled views over Brussels and its surroundings.

Practical info: You can see the Atomium from the outside at any time and it’s beautifully lit at night. For visits inside, see practical info and get your tickets here .

14. Mini-Europe

If you already make it all the way to the Atomium, then definitely visit the adjacent Mini-Europe as well. Here, you’ll find miniature buildings and landmarks from all over Europe, scaled to the size of 1:25.

It’s a fun way to discover the main landmarks from various European countries and maybe even find some travel inspiration for future trips. And if you ever wanted to take some fun pictures with the mini versions of the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben, this is your chance!

Mini-Europe is great for all ages. It’s fun for families visiting Brussels with kids, but it’s definitely not only for kids.

Practical info: Mini-Europe is an outdoor attraction, but is open daily, all year round, and is just one of the many places you can also visit in Belgium in winter . See here for more info and tickets.

TIP: If you are planning to visit both, Atomium and Mini-Europe, you can get a combi-ticket that saves a few euros.

15. European Quarter

Brussels is the capital of Europe and there are many EU institutions in the city. Most of them are concentrated around Place Schuman, Place du Luxembourg, Place Jourdan, and Place Jean Rey. All these places are a few metro stops from the old town.

If you want to get to know more about the EU, then it might be interesting to visit the European Parliament in Brussels. There are several unique experiences that you can choose from, and it’s also free of charge. You should book in advance.

Practical info: You can see all the buildings from the outside at any time. For more information for a visit inside, please check the official website of the European Parliament in Brussels.

16. Cinquantenaire Park

Located outside the city center, a short walk from the EU Quarter, the Parc du Cinquantenaire (Park of the 50th anniversary of Belgian independence). This is one of the biggest and most famous parks of Brussels. It has nice lawns, flower displays, fountains, playgrounds, a huge triumphal arch in the middle, and several big museums.

The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History is a nice place to see all kinds of military equipment, armory, but also tanks, and even aircraft. More info .

Autoworld is a car museum, with a big collection of vintage vehicles. This is one of the best museums to visit in Brussels with children and it’s not just for boys. More info .

The Art & History Museum has an impressive collection of works of art dating from various periods of time, from Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, and more. More info .

Most tourists who come to Brussels just for a day don’t get to this part of the city. But if you take a hop-on hop-off bus (more info below), you’ll definitely pass here. If you have more time, take a stroll through the park and visit one of the museums.

Practical information: You’ll need at least 30-45 min for Autoworld or for the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces. The Art & History Museum requires at least 2 hours of your time. For more information and opening times, please check their websites linked above.

TIP: All these museums are included with the Brussels Card .

17. Hop-on Hop-off Bus

If you want to see a lot of Brussels in a short time, then consider taking a hop-on hop-off bus . It’s especially convenient if you are planning to visit the attractions located a bit outside the city center. For the Atomium, Mini Europe, but also the EU buildings or Cinquantenaire Park, the hop-on hop-off bus is the best way to easily get there.

There are two routes and your ticket covers both of them. For the western side of the city including Atomium, take the Blue Route (aka Atomium Route). For the easter side, including the European quarter and Cinquantenaire Park, take the Red Route (aka Europe Route).

The advantage of taking the sightseeing bus is that it also passes the Royal Palace in Laken, the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, the Japanese Tower at the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, and several other interesting Brussels landmarks. You also get to see some colorful neighborhoods of Brussels that you’d totally miss otherwise.

18. Brussels Museums

Brussels has many museums and, depending on your interests and the time you have, you could consider visiting a few of them. However, with so many choices, it can be really overwhelming to decide where to go. So here are a few more suggestions, in addition to the ones already mentioned above. (You can also find these on our map of Brussels attractions).

In the heart of Brussels and just near the Musical Instruments Museum, you’ll find the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium . This is a complex of two museums – the Old Masters Museum and the Magritte Museum . You can visit one or both of them (combination tickets are available). The building is so large that you can spend a big part of the day here. More info here . If you have time for just one museum in Brussels, make it the Magritte Museum !

For nature, history, and dinosaurs, head to the Museum of Natural Sciences . The museum houses the largest Dinosaur Gallery in Europe and is a favorite among kids. However, it’s located somewhat far away from all the attractions in the city center. So you really have to make an effort in order to visit. More info here .

Brussels City Museum , located at the Grand Place town square, is dedicated to the city of Brussels. This museum is a great place to learn about Brussels and its history from the Middle Ages to modern times. More info here .

Other Brussels museums that are also worth considering are Comics Art Museum, Train World , BOZAR, and Choco-Story Brussels . But even if you’d somehow manage to visit all of these, you’ll just scratch the surface of all that there’s to see in Brussels.

TIP: If you are a museum fan and plan to visit several of Brussels museums in one trip, then definitely get Brussels Card . It will save you a lot of money.

Now that we covered all the best places to see in Brussels, here are some additional experiences that you don’t want to miss. Ok, you can skip the shopping but definitely don’t skip all the food and drinks that Belgium is famous for. Take a look at our suggestions with some insider tips!

19. Shopping at Rue Neuve or Avenue Louise

In addition to all the tourist sights and attractions, many people come to Brussels for shopping. It’s a great place for that indeed, with countless options and plenty of choices for all styles and budgets.

The busiest place in Brussels, Rue Neuve is the main shopping street of the city. It’s lined with big chain stores and looks and feels like any other big shopping area in the world. But if you’d like to do some shopping, this is the place to be.

For a more high-end shopping experience, head to Avenue Louise on the other side of the city center. Here, you’ll find expensive designer boutiques, with names as Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & co, Michael Kors, and similar.

20. Belgian Chocolate

No trip to Brussels would be complete without tasting some really good Belgian chocolate . There are probably hundreds of shops selling chocolate in the center of Brussels. And you can also visit Choco-Story Brussels , where you can learn more about Belgian chocolate and taste some of it.

TIP: If you are looking to taste some truly good Belgian chocolate, I recommend checking out the shops of traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus , Godiva , Leonidas , or Pierre Marcolini .

The traditional Belgian chocolate brands such as Neuhaus (est. 1857), Leonidas (est. 1913), and Godiva (est. 1926) have a long history, whereas Pierre Marcolini is the newcomer that opened his first shop at the end of the 20 th century.

Leonidas offers some of the best price-quality Belgian chocolates. Godiva and Neuhaus are somewhat more expensive and some of their chocolates require an acquired taste that not everybody will appreciate.

The chocolates of Pierre Marcolini are more contemporary and often quite daring. They come with a high price tag as well. But if you want to taste some of the best chocolate in the world, then definitely stop by one of their shops in Brussels.

Our personal favorite Belgian chocolate is the white ‘Manon’ praline from Leonidas . These pralines have coffee-flavored buttercream in a shell of white chocolate, with hazelnut in the middle. You can find them without hazelnut, with milk chocolate or dark chocolate as well, but definitely try the original one too! They were invented back in 1934, but are just as popular nowadays as they were almost a hundred years ago.

Our kids’ favorites are the Côte d’Or Praliné chocolates that come in many different varieties. You’ll find them in all Belgian supermarkets. They are much better and much cheaper than the chocolates sold in tourist stores.

21. Belgian Waffles

It’s impossible to not mention Belgian waffles when writing about any major city in Belgium. You’ll see and smell the waffles in all the tourist areas in Brussels. And they’re so hard to resist.

There are so many different types of Belgian waffles, but the tourist places usually all sell just one or two kinds – the Brussels waffles and the Liege waffles . Usually the latter. The Brussels waffles are somewhat bigger, more ‘airy’, and not as sweet. They are rectangular in shape. Whereas the Liege waffles are quite thick and heavy, and they also contain more sugar. They are also somewhat more rounded than the Brussels waffles.

In addition, you can choose extra toppings that vary from whipped cream and chocolate to fresh strawberries and many others. If you dare, try a few toppings at once. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to try to eat it all while standing in the busy street, with hundreds of people walking by. This is the reason why we usually simply opt for a plain waffle when buying Belgian waffles from the street shops.

Still, the best traditional waffles are the ones you’ll find at these street stands and not at restaurants. Definitely give it a try!

TIP: If you have a few hours to spare, you can also check out this waffle-making workshop . It’s something fun to do in Brussels that you won’t find in many other places.

22. Belgian Beer

One of the best things to do in Brussels is go bar-hopping and try different Belgian beers in various pubs and cafes. There are many tourist-oriented places, but for a more authentic experience, look for older, traditional pubs and cafes.

Some of them have hundreds of different Belgian beers , many on tap, and always with their own matching glasses (see more about this in our guide to fun facts about Belgium ).

Here are just a few of the best beer cafes in Brussels (we also indicated them on the map): Delirium Café , Moeder Lambic , Café Mort Subite , Bier Circus , etc.

Don’t settle for the typical mass-production Belgian beer that you find all over the world. Make sure to ask for some local suggestions and try something that you can only find in Belgium!

Good to know: Some Belgian beers are very strong, so be careful if trying more than one or two of them on the same evening. On the other hand, there are also very light, fruity beers, that you will enjoy even if you are not a big fan of beer, like me.

Local’s recommendation: My husband’s favorite Belgian beers are the Trappist beers: Westmalle , Westvleteren ,  Orval , Rochefort , Achel , Chimay , and La Trappe . In Brussels, Lambic , Geuze , Mort Subite , La Chouffe , or Rodenbach are just a few popular choices.

TIP: If you want to taste various Belgian beers, but are not sure where to start or what to choose, check out this popular pub crawl or – if you are in the mood for more – this highly-rated tour that includes 7 beers and snacks .

23. Belgian Fries with Mayo

No visit to Belgium would be complete without trying some typical Belgian fries with mayo (and no, it’s nothing like fries or mayo that you’ll find anywhere else in the world). And while you can find good fries in the restaurants as well, the best ones come from the street stands called ‘ friterie ’ or ‘ fritkot’ .

For a couple of euros, you can have a delicious and quick meal. It’s perfect when you don’t want to sit down for a long meal during the day and rather spend your time sightseeing.

And yes, it’s not the healthiest option, but with all the chocolate, waffles, and beer, you’ll likely need to loosen your belt in Brussels anyway. So why not go for a full experience and try it all!

TIP: The most popular place to taste traditional Belgian fries in the center of Brussels is the friterie called Fritland , located on the western side of the Stock Exchange building. No matter what time of the day, there’s always a queue here, you can’t miss it. Another good place is Friterie Tabora , very close by to the Grand Place as well. I indicated both of these on our map, but there are many, many more good places throughout the city.

Where to Stay

There are so many nice hotels in various areas of Brussels that it’s really difficult to recommend just a few accommodations. For sightseeing, we recommend staying in the city center, close to Grand Place – this area really has it all and is also easy to access by public transport.

Here are some of the best hotels in the heart of the city center, close to Grand Place, for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo .
• €€€€ Warwick Grand Place .
• €€€ NH Collection Brussels Centre .
• €€ Motel One Brussels .

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Brussels (best areas & hotels for all budgets) & Most Popular Brussels Hotels (top 10 most-booked hotels in the city center)

So, this is our guide to the top things to do in Brussels and the main tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Belgian capital. I hope that this will help you make the most of your visit and get to know Brussels a bit better.

If you are visiting other Belgian cities as well, make sure to also check our guide to the best things to do in Bruges and also the best things to do in Antwerp (+ don’t miss our favorite local places in Antwerp ).

TIP: If you are looking for ideas on how to plan your trip, see our suggested Belgium itinerary for 3-4 days . It also includes tips for where to stay and how to get around. Check it out!

Have a great trip to Brussels!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for some of the most beautiful cities all over Europe:

• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• Best Things to Do in Rome
• Best Things to Do in Venice
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• Best Things to Do in London
• Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Best Things to Do in Milan
• Best Things to Do in Krakow
• Best Things to Do in Lisbon
• Best Things to Do in Geneva
• Best Things to Do in Lucerne
• Best Things to Do in Bern
• Best Things to Do in Colmar
• Best Things to Do in Salzburg
• Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

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Monday 15th of April 2024

Thank you! As I read your recommendations, the sites were easy to locate on the map. I was able to sketch out our Brussels adventures. My daughter and I are visiting for ten days in August with side trips to Ghent, Liege, Antwerp, Luxembourg and Bruges. I look forward to reading more!

Tuesday 16th of April 2024

Glad to help Donna. If you happen to be in Belgium around the 15th of August, don't miss the Flower Carpet! Have a great trip!

Thursday 28th of December 2023

Heading to Brussels early May. Also side trip to Luxembourg. Any tips on that? Also thinking of day trip to Ghent - worth it?

These guides are amazing. Thanks.

Friday 29th of December 2023

@Jurga, Thanks... Yes Luxembourg is a far ride so planning to stay two nights. Your site was very helpful. Thanks much.

Hi Janet, you can easily take a train from Brussels to Luxembourg and visit for a day, but it's a rather long train journey so start early. Ghent is much closer and you don't necessarily need a full day if you just want to see the main highlights, but it all depends on your interests. Some people love it more than any other city in Belgium. You could also combine it with Bruges. If you have time, I highly recommend visiting Antwerp. It's a very easy day trip by train and you can easily fill a day or even more there. It's our personal favorite. You can find several detailed guides on Antwerp and Bruges on our website - see here for an overview. Unfortunately, I haven't published anything about Ghent or Luxembourg city itself. In Ghent, the nicest place to be is around Korenlei/Graslei and St. Michael's Bridge. Don't miss Gravensteen Castle and Lam Gods painting at Saint Bavo's Cathedral. In Luxembourg, visit the old town around Grand Ducal Palace. We personally always love walking around Grund (this area is by the river and can be reached via elevators from old town). Also don't miss Bock Casemates. Hope this helps.

R. Robinson

Monday 18th of September 2023

Your travel guides are amazingly helpful! Thank you very much. I used the Iceland guide in June and currently in Brussels.

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Glad to help. Hope you enjoyed Belgium!

Colin Peart

Tuesday 15th of February 2022

Thanks for the great tips. The best blog I’ve found for Brüssels.

Wednesday 16th of February 2022

Glad to help, Colin. Have a great time in Brussels! (and don't forget that there's more to Belgium than its capital ;))

Brussels is rich in history, architecture, gastronomy, culture and so much more! Warm, welcoming and quirky, Brussels is a bustling city where there’s always something going on. Visit us to discover hidden gems and meet people with hearts as big as this vibrant city.

Summer in Brussels

Brussels charms, Brussels moves, Brussels surprises, and it does so all year round. Summer, however, is perhaps the capital's most contrasting season. The weather gods can sometimes be at their most capricious; despite the hard-earned summer break for numerous cultural institutions, there's still an incredible amount to do; and the all-important vibe is somewhere between festive exuberance and no-nonsense, easy-going urban! No obligations, everything is possible! In short, Brussels at its best!  

Surrealist Brussels

In 1924, André Breton published his "Manifesto of Surrealism". 100 years on, the Belgian capital is paying tribute to this deliberately subversive, dreamlike and abundant movement

Must-see attractions

You’ve just arrived in Brussels and you don't know where to start? Don't worry, we've put together a list of must-see attractions for you.

Upcoming events

Mosaik festival.

L'Os à Moelle

Festival Expressions Mixtes

Bruegel Cultural Center

Roller Bike Parade

Want to roll down the boulevards and side streets of Brussels on your rollerblades, skateboard or bike, without a single car in sight? Join the Roller Bike Parade in Brussels every Friday evening. Supervised by our experienced staff, come and discover Brussels while riding to the rhythm of our Dj's!

The Roller Bike Parade is back for a new edition in 2024! Accompanied by our experienced staff, come and discover Brussels to the rhythm of our Djs! Want to rollerblade, skateboard or bike through the grand boulevards or small streets of Brussels without cars driving around you? Then join the Roller Bike Parade in Brussels every Friday night. The Roller Bike Parade is a fun and original concept that invites participants to come on rollerblades, bikes, skateboards, monowheels or longboards to invade the city streets for an evening. Two routes are planned for each parade: one for beginners (about 5 km) and one for the sporty among you (about 15 km). Family or alone, the parade is for everyone. In all cases, it is advisable to equip yourself with safety equipment (helmet, knee pads, etc.) and something to keep you hydrated. We expect you every Friday from 7 pm on the Place Poelaert in Brussels. - Gathering time: 7 pm - Departure time: 8 pm - Departure point: Place Poelaert - When: Every Friday (except June 28 and September 06). - Price: Free We are ready for a top season! Do you have any questions? Want to join us? Find us at https://rollerbikeparade.be/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RollerBikeParade - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rollerbikeparade/ #rollerparade PLEASE NOTE The parade will not take place on June 28 and September 6.

Place Poelaert

Midsummer Mozartiade

The Midsummer Mozartiade festival invites you to its 8th edition, from 17 to 23 June, right in the heart of Brussels. Our main stage performances will again take place at the Théâtre Royal des Galeries, located in the elegant and historic Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, just a stone's throw from the Grand-Place.

A festival that gets a theatre singing (again)! Following the resounding success of Die Zauberflöte last summer, we are proud to present the opera Mitridate, re di Ponto at the Théâtre des Galeries this summer. This is a rare production of Mozart's very first opera seria (written at the age of 14!), a veritable triumph when it premiered in 1770. This masterpiece sings a powerful story of geopolitical confrontation (in a region known today as Crimea), fratricidal conflict and thwarted love (what could be more topical?). For all those who love vocal fireworks, this is no doubt the very modern-day production in which the roles of the rival brothers (originally written for castrati) will both be sung by men (in this case a sopranist and a countertenor). And echoing the ‘intimate and grandiose’ Requiem performed last summer by the prestigious phalanges of the CAV&MA de Namur, Missa Brevis will take the stage of the Théâtre des Galeries this summer. This ground-breaking concert, conceived by the excellent emerging conductor Gabriel Hollander, promises to delight all fans of sacred music (out of the box), chamber music (of a spiritual kind) or contemporary music (in its choral form). Featured on the programme are liturgical miniatures by Mozart, Haydn… and Belgian composer Fabian Fiorini. A festival that shows you round the centre of Brussels! Besides these exciting main stage productions, you will find a variety of free events at landmark venues throughout the city centre. In the Galerie du Roi, right outside the theatre, talented young performers (a wind quintet, a voice-cello duo and a string quartet) will serenade passers-by to kick off our festival week in style. A short stroll to Place des Martyrs will bring you to Maison CFC, at number 14, and two fascinating lectures on the journeys to Italy of aspiring composers and the evolution of opera seria across the ages. Turn left into Rue aux Choux, and straight ahead you will see the beautiful Mozart-era church Notre-Dame du Finistère. This peaceful haven in the bustling Rue Neuve will be the stage for a fabulous all-Handel concert, featuring two outstanding sopranos and a four-piece Baroque band. A festival that takes opera on the road! In July, we will once again be touring our opera production to the Théâtre Royal in Mons as part of the Festival au Carré, and then to the Grand-Manège in Namur as part of the Festival musical de Namur, courtesy of the ORCW and the CAV&MA, major partners of our Brussels festival. Our shared mission is to make opera (originally a popular form of entertainment) more accessible for a broader, more diverse audience. So make a date with Mozart this June! We look forward to seeing you there.

Stefan Sbonnik (tenor); Gianna Cañete Gallo (soprano); Dennis Orellana (sopranist); Pieter De Praetere (countertenor); Sonia Sheridan Jacquelin (mezzo-soprano); Mathis Van Cleynenbreugel (tenor); Eric Gobin (director); Thibaut Lenaerts (conductor); Orchestre Royal de Chambre de Wallonie (ensemble); Gabriel Hollander (conductor); Clara Inglese (soprano); Julie Bailly (mezzo-soprano);

Théâtre Royal des Galeries

Fête de la Musique

Various places in Brussels

Brussels International Film Festival - BRIFF

The 7th edition of the Brussels International Film Festival (BRIFF), will take place from June 25th to July 3rd 2024 in the heart of Brussels! This year again, the BRIFF promises you a concentrate of strong images and emotions on the big screen. Brussels will be brimming with a bouquet of emotions as the BRIFF takes place at Cinéma UGC, Cinéma Galeries and Palace as well as evening open-air screenings, thus offering an urban and cinematographic experience to the festival goers. Keep your eyes open, more details are coming soon...

Brussels Urban Sessions

THE BIGGEST ACTION SPORTS FESTIVAL IN BELGIUM

Josaphat Park

Festival Musiq3

Rise brings together emerging and established artists from the Belgian and international classical, jazz and electro scenes.

Rise brings together emerging and established artists from the Belgian and international classical, jazz and electro scenes. Eighteen concerts for young and old, encounters, an evening of podcasts about music and human nature, a showcase for the Propulse Classique competition, new works by sound and plant sculptor Bob Verschueren and dj sets on the square! Experience classical music in a different way and get ready for the summer! And for the first time this year, the festival will open on Thursday with an exceptional evening. Head to Flagey and the surrounding area for four days of musical and artistic excellence at the Festival Musiq3.

With, among others : Vox Luminis, Thomas Dunford, the Brussels Philharmonic, Antoine Pierre, Marc-André Hamelin, Adèle Molle, Elise Caluwaerts, Jos van Immerseel, Glass Marcano... and many more!

Théâtre Marni & Flagey

Couleur Café

The Couleur Café festival, located in the verdant Osseghem park next to the Atomium, is a vibrant melting-pot of musical genres, spanning from hip-hop, reggae, and afro to RnB, funk, and dub. For 34 years, the festival has welcome thousands of beautiful people, featuring dozens of both established and emerging artists, as well as remarkable DJs.

The greenest urban festival in the country is getting ready for its 33rd edition. On the 28th, 29th and 30th of June 2024, the breathtaking Osseghem Park by the Atomium will welcome a diverse mix of established and emerging hip-hop, soul, funk, reggae, dub, dance and afro artists, as well as dozens of DJ’s on 6 stages, countless experiences and culinary highlights, an enchanting decoration and thousands of beautiful people who perfectly represent the diversity of Belgium. Couleur Café is more than a festival, it is a journey around the globe that’ll keep you dreaming for the rest of the year. And it has been for 34 years. Discover more on couleurcafe.be.

Osseghem Park

Midis Minimes Festival

From 1st of July to 30th of August at 12.15 pm Venues : Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon : Rue des Sablons, 1000 Bruxelles Conservatoire royal de Bruxelles : Rue de la Régence 30, 1000 Bruxelles

Conservatoire Royal de Bruxelles, Eglise Notre-Dame des Victoires (Sablon)

Brosella festival

The Brosella Festival is a two-day jazz & urban etno festival held in the shadow of the Atomium.

The Brosella Festival is a two-day music event held in the shadow of the Atomium. Taking place on July 6th and 7th at the beautiful Theatre in the Ossegem Park, the festival attracts jazz and urban ethno artists from around the world. Featuring 20 live bands and a children's program, the festival offers a unique experience where you can enjoy outstanding music in an enchanting setting.

Urban etno: Halva - Musafir, Aishinka, Ão, Lisa O'Neill, Kara Jackson, Oumou Sangaré, Farfar Jazz: John Ghost, TaxiWars, Flat Earth Society - Boggamasta, BXL x LDN Interplay ft. Stéphane Galland - Binker Golding - Bram De Looze, Johnathan Blake's Pentad, M.CHUZI, Naïssam Jalal Children's Corner: Locas De Amor, Griboujazz, Ntoumos, Dalva, Drawing Basses

Bruxellons!

Festival Bruxellons! Au Château du Karreveld

Molenbeek-Saint-Jean

Walden Festival 2024

Walden Festival is an initiative from the founders of Klarafestival. The concept? Enjoying music in all its diversity on various stages in and around Brussels’ Leopold Park, the green heart of the European Quarter. Get ready for an adventurous summer festival for young and old alike!

The garden of the Museum of Natural Sciences, adjacent to Leopold Park, is the starting point for an exploration of classical, contemporary, non-Western music and jazz. It’s all about alternative concert formats and breaking down barriers between different genres. A string quartet, a jazz solo, Eastern music and mysterious soundscapes … encounter them all at Walden Festival. Some concerts take place in the open air while others are held in stunning architectural jewels. Put together your own schedule and wander between concerts. Combine the festival with a visit to the Museum of Natural Sciences or enjoy our tasteful festival catering. Watch, listen, taste, feel... let all of your senses be stimulated!

Leopold Park

National Day - Fête au Parc

Get out your flag and show your attachment to our country and the Royal Family to celebrate our National Day. A host of free events await you from 10am to 8pm.

Get out your flag and show your attachment to our country and the Royal Family to celebrate our National Day. A host of free events await you from 10am to 8pm. Parades of folk music groups, visits to institutions and museums are all on the programme for 21 July 2024. Organised by the Syndicat d'Initiative - Bruxelles Promotion, the ‘Fête au Parc’ will take place from the Palais de Justice to the Parliament, passing through the Parc de Bruxelles and the Rue de la Régence. At 9pm, at the Cinquantenaire, a concert followed by a fireworks display brings the festivities to a close. The must-see events of the Festival are also on the agenda, with the ‘Police Village’ on Place Poelaert, manned by the federal and local police forces. La Défense will be presenting its activities on Place Royale. At the Sablon, a ‘Security Village’ is being organised by the Federal Public Service Home Office. There will also be stands from the Federal Public Service Finance, Customs and Excise and the Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation. Numerous initiations, animations and demonstrations are offered free of charge. The civil and military parade starts at 4pm in Place des Palais. The 21 July festivities are being organised in collaboration with the Chancellery of the Prime Minister, the Federal Public Service Home Affairs, the Brussels-Capital Region, Defence, the City of Brussels and with the support of the National Lottery. An unforgettable day not to be missed! All the activities on offer are free of charge.

Parc de Bruxelles

Classissimo - Classiques sans Frontières

Théâtre Royal du Parc

Indian Food Festival

Food Festival celebrates cultural diversity through arts and cuisine with two themes: Indian Cuisine and Indian Mela. Indian Cuisine showcases India's diverse culinary traditions for the public to taste and enjoy. Indian Mela creates a festive atmosphere with live music, cultural performances, yoga sessions, and workshops, transforming the Park into an urban carnival.

Indian Food Festival embraces a spirit that celebrates cultural diversity and is united by a shared love for arts, cuisine, and beverages. The Indian Food Festival unfolds with two distinctive themes: Indian Cuisine and Indian Mela. Under the theme of Indian Cuisine, we endeavor to assemble India's myriad culinary traditions, each brimming with its own unique flavors, under one roof for the public to savor and relish. This endeavor comes to life as we meticulously curate each cuisine and bolster the passion of every chef involved. In the realm of Indian Mela, our aim is to craft an atmosphere of pure joy and festivity, featuring live music, vibrant cultural performances, invigorating yoga sessions, and engaging workshops. From spirited Indi-pop bhangra dancing to impromptu yoga tutorials, we spare no effort in creating an urban carnival of artists and performances at Parc du Cinquantenaire/Jubel Park.

Cinquantenaire Park

Brussels Games Festival 2024

The Brussels Games Festival is the first summer festival dedicated to board games in all their forms and for the widest possible audience.

The 9th edition of the Brussels Games Festival will take place from August 23 to 25, 2024 at The EGG - Brussels (Anderlecht). The Brussels Games Festival is the first summer festival in Brussels dedicated to board games and is open to all audiences: families, game enthusiasts, seasoned players, casual gamers, or simply the curious. It aims to promote games in all their forms and to raise awareness about the importance of gaming for all citizens, regardless of age, gender, social status, or ethnic origin. Hundreds of free-to-play games, crazy animations, a second-hand game market, a protozone to discover the games of tomorrow, tournaments, Trading Card Games (TCG), a game night, and much more!

Many publishers and distributors from Belgium and also from Europe.

Fairs and shows

Marni Jazz Festival

Welcome to a world where musical boundaries are erased to make way for a symphony of genres and styles. Forget the label, forget the musical genre ; the Marni Jazz Festival 24 transcends conventional boundaries, capturing the essence of artistic freedom and daring exploration.

This year’s edition draws its inspiration from a multitude of sources : from the haunting rhythms of traditional music to modern electronic vibes, the enchanting melodies of jazz, the dynamic pulsations of rock and the soothing harmonies of classical music. These Belgian musicians are renowned for their creativity and virtuosity. Nicolas Fiszman, Julie Rens and Louise van den Heuvel have been given carte blanche to express their art to the full, and have embarked on this daring adventure to explore and push back the boundaries. Their mastery and passion are reflected in every note, creating an unforgettable aural and sensory experience that will awaken your emotions and stimulate your imagination. Brussels-based pianist Casimir Liberski revisits video game themes in an acoustic trio, and Manou Gallo, the queen of Afro bass fusion, has her 5th album in store for us. To round off this exciting series, The Gallands, father and son, will take us to the top of the groove, accompanied by guests. The evening will continue in the bar with a jam, so come along, it’s going to be great (free jam) !

12/09 Nicolas Fiszman - carte blanche 13/09 Manou Gallo Album Release "Afro Fusion Beat" 14/09 Julie Rains - carte blanche 19/09 Casimir Liberski ReTrio 20/09 Louise van den Heuvel "Echoes of the Rain" 21/09 The Gallands + guests + JAM au bar

Théâtre Marni

Art on Paper 2024

After a highly successful edition in 2023, the 9th edition of Art on Paper will be held from 03 to 06 October 2024 at the Gare Maritime in Brussels.

Thanks to its human-scale format, its remarkable and eco-responsible location in Brussels (Gare Maritime), its artistic quality and its unique positioning, the fair now stands out among the international initiatives dedicated to the medium for collectors, dealers and art professionals. Art on Paper will be welcoming some 65 Belgian and international galleries and will be even more open to modern and antique art galleries. The fair offers an exceptional discovery of drawing through the centuries.

Gare Maritime - Tour & Taxis

Museum Night Fever 2024

See you on 19 October 2024 for another great night in the museums of Brussels.

Museum Night Fever is the Brussels' museums night. During one evening, about 30 museums open their doors between 7pm and 1am, offering an ultra-diverse, effervescent and offbeat programme in collaboration with emerging artists. The party goes on until the early hours in the afterparties. More info : www.museumnightfever.be

Brussels Museums

La Demence: 35th Anniversary: Closing Party

Buy your tickets at ticketing.brussels

Discover our selection of concerts, plays, shows, museums, festivals & exhibitions in brussels., where to eat, the best places to eat chips in brussels.

Check out all our addresses!

Street food in Brussels: a whole world of flavours at your fingertips

Are you a fan street food? Brussels is packed with places where you can taste and savour authentic street cuisine.

Brussels’ breweries

Over the last ten years, Brussels has seen a renewed interest in artisanal production and craft beers.

Sustainable restaurants in Brussels

Looking for a sustainable restaurant? Seventy-six establishments in Brussels hold the “Good Food Resto” label.

Let’s get practical

Arriving in brussels.

Plane, train, bus or car? All roads lead to Brussels.

Getting around

Get around by tram, bus, metro, train, bike... Transport is easy to use in Brussels!

Tourist information offices

In Brussels already and looking for a bit of inspiration? Pop in at one of our offices!

Low Emission Zone

Brussels is striving for cleaner air and knows how to get it done.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors

One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors

I came to Brussels for three specific reasons: chocolate, waffles, and the Grand Place. I was not disappointed. Luckily, one day in Brussels is just enough time to explore the highlights and fill up on Belgium’s famous food and drink.

I designed this custom map and Brussels itinerary to showcase my favorite parts of the city for first time visitors. If you have more than one day in Brussels, check out the bonus tips at the end of the post!

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

How to See Brussels in a Day

— Know Before You Go — Where to Stay in Brussels — The Best Time to Take a Brussels Day Trip — One Day in Brussels Itinerary — Map of One Day in Brussels Itinerary — Other Things to do in Brussels — Where to Go After This 1 Day Brussels Itinerary

Know Before You Go

Estimated Itinerary Budget: €60 per person (excluding hotel and airfare)

Brussels uses the Euro, and you should plan to carry cash in addition to your card(s). Many places in Brussels will take card, but some restaurants and shops are cash-only. There are also places that are card-only, so pay close attention to the signs near the entrance!

For dining out, €15-20 will be enough for a standard meal and a beverage. Brussels is pricey when it comes to food, but frites aren’t the only budget-friendly option. Check out this roundup of cheap eats in Brussels for recommendations beyond doner kebabs and hamburgers.

Getting to Brussels

If you’re flying to Brussels, you’ll land at Brussels Airport, which is northeast of the city center. From there, you can take an IC train to Bruxelles-Midi central train station. Tickets are €7 – €9, and the journey takes approximately 35 minutes.

If you’re traveling via train, you’ll want to get off at Bruxelles-Midi. Eurostar routes typically terminate at this station. Fortunately, the city center is only a 25 minute walk from here, so you can skip public transit and start exploring Brussels right away.

Other Transport Tips

• Brussels is well-connected by public transit, including metro lines, trams, and buses.
• The fare system is quite simple, as all transit options take the same ticket. Use one of the GO machines inside the metro stations (and some bus and tram stops) to buy a one-hour ticket. Pro tip: to navigate the on-screen menu, turn the dial on the machine to select your ticket option.
• You can also buy tickets when entering the bus or tram for a slightly higher price. Be sure to validate your ticket in the machine after purchasing it.
• Train stations also have ticket machines that operate in multiple languages. Pay attention to the machine’s labels, however, as some are chip-card only.

Belgium has three official languages: French, German, and Dutch. However, most folks in Brussels are fluent in French.

Fortunately for English-speakers, many service industry workers are conversational in English. As with most major cities, the further you get from touristy areas, the less likely it is that people speak fluent English.

If you don’t have Google Translate installed on your phone with the French dictionary downloaded, do that before you leave.

One day in Brussels doesn’t require too much knowledge of French, but knowing some words and phrases will help immensely. People will be far more inclined to help if you start the interaction in French.

Here are a few French phrases you should know, with some very rough pronunciations:

• Hello – Bonjour  (bon-zhor)
• Yes – Oui (we)
• No – Non (no)
• Please –  S’il vous plaît (see voo play)
• Thank You – Merci (mare-see)
• Pardon Me – Excusez-moi (excuse-ay mwah)
• Do you speak English? – Parlez-vous Anglais? (parlay-voo An-glay?)
• I would like – Je voudrais (zyuh voo-dray)
• Water – Eau (oh)
• One – Un/Une* (uhn/oone)

*French is a gendered language, so the thing you’re referring to will determine how you say “one”. Unless you really dive into the language, just stick to using “un”.

Combining these 10 words and phrases will be enough for one day in Brussels. But if you’re planning to stay longer, I recommend learning the rest of these essential travel phrases .

Here are a few pointers to help you gracefully navigate the city:

• Always greet the shopkeeper and restaurant staff when entering a building. A simple bonjour is great and will be reciprocated by the staff.
• Tipping is not necessary, as restaurants include service charges in the bill (even if it’s not clear on the receipt). However, it’s also acceptable to leave a couple Euros.
• Use caution when crossing at zebra walks with no signal (i.e. pedestrian cross ways). Cars do not always give pedestrians the right of way, so wait at the edge of the cross way until traffic halts.
• If you venture out to the city center before 8am, you’ll encounter a lot of garbage. Bright pink trash bags, broken glass, and tumbleweeds of paper products will cover the streets and the Grand Place. If you’re planning to take photos during blue hour, be prepared to dodge the street sweepers.

My Favorite Belgium Travel Guidebooks

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

• Rick Steves Belgium: Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp & Ghent
• Lonely Planet: Pocket Bruges & Brussels
• DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Belgium and Luxembourg

Where to Stay in Brussels

If you only have one day in Brussels, it’s best to stay near the city center . There are options for all budgets, ranging from affordable yet well-appointed hostels to high-end lodgings overlooking the palace.

I stayed at The Dominican , a beautiful historic hotel just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Place.

The price was very affordable considering the location, and the room was spacious and comfortable. Downstairs, there is an elegant lounge and dining area perfect for evening meals and drinks. If the weather is nice, you can enjoy a cappuccino in the leafy courtyard before heading out for a day of sightseeing.

There are also great VRBO apartment rental options in the city, especially in the Quartier des Quais and Saint-Gilles districts.

The Best Time to Take a Brussels Day Trip

From flower festivals to Christmas markets, there are plenty of reasons to spend a day in Brussels. Here are some seasonal highlights to help you plan your Brussels day trip:

• Zinneke Parade:  Held on even-numbered years in May, the Zinneke Parade is a multicultural celebration of Brussels’ people, and includes performances by city locals.
• Ommegang:  This annual June festival feels straight out of the Renaissance, with jugglers, folk games, and puppet performances.
• Flower Carpet:  Held every other August, the Flower Carpet stretches across the Grand Place, and displays a different cultural theme every year.
• Christmas Market:  The Grand Place hosts one of Europe’s best Christmas markets, with traditional stalls selling crafts, food, and mulled wine.

One Day in Brussels Itinerary

Porte de halle (halle gate).

Exit Bruxelles-Midi and head east on Rue Théodore Verhaegen. This road runs through the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, which is full of lovely residences and cafes. Take a left on Chaussée de Waterloo and walk north.

You’ll shortly arrive at Porte de Halle, a 14th-century city gate that also contains a history museum. The fortifications make the gate resemble a small castle sitting on a major road. Depending on your interest in Brussels’ history and the time you arrive, you could pop into the museum.

Opening hours are 9:30 – 17:00 Monday – Thursday and 10:00 – 18:00 Saturday & Sunday. Admission is €7, and you can also climb the battlements for a view.

From Halle Gate, head northeast towards the Palais de Justice. This courthouse is massive, with towering pillars and impossibly high ceilings. Sadly, they were renovating the building during my visit, but hopefully you’ll have better luck!

Palais d’Egmont

From the Courthouse, walk north on the Rue aux Laines to Egmont palace. There are no royal residents occupying these halls. Instead, Belgium uses this opulent palace to host important guests and international conferences.

Enjoy the manicured grounds and take a rest in front of the fountain if needed.

Mont des Arts

From the Palais d’Egmont, head northwest up the Rue des Petits Carmes. Take a left on the Rue de Namur and go towards the Koningsplein, Brussels’ original royal palace.

From there, head west up the Rue Montagne de la Cour, which will bring you to an area overlooking the Mont des Arts and the city center.

The Mont des Arts is one of Brussels’ most iconic places, with a long floral garden and views of the city hall tower. The cube-shaped glass building adds a modern element to the area’s traditional architecture.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, head through the garden path towards the city center.

RELATED: One Day in Bruges Itinerary + Walking Tour

City Center

Just west of the Mont des Arts is the main hub of Brussels. However, before you get absorbed into the shops and cafes, stay on the outskirts for a glimpse of the Manneken Pis.

Brussels has three “pis” (i.e. urinating) statues throughout the old town, but this little boy is the most famous of them all. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a crowd blocking a narrow alley. Not being a fan of mass groups of people, I admired the Mannekin Pis from afar and skipped the photo.

If you want to see all of the Pis statues during your one day in Brussels, try this rhyming scavenger hunt from The Travel Medley.

Grand Place

Just three blocks north of the famous urinating child is the Grand Place. I’d seen photos of the area before my visit, but I was still completely blown away at the grandeur of it all. I’m a sucker for giant, intricately detailed buildings, and the Grand Place did not disappoint.

The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its crown jewel is Brussels’ Town Hall. Technically over 600 years old (the original was burned down in 1695 but was quickly rebuilt), the hall is open for limited guided tours .

If you time your visit just right, you may be able to squeeze this into your itinerary. I was content to admire the facade.

Other landmarks in the area include the House of the Dukes of Brabant and the King’s House/Breadhouse. The open square hosts festivals throughout the year, including the famous flower carpet display  held every other August. During our visit, there was a rousing handball match complete with giant dolls cheering on the players!

Brunch/Lunch

If you only have one day in Brussels, you’d be crazy not to eat as many waffle-based dishes as possible. Peck 47 and Mokafe are both excellent options for brunch/lunch in the city center.

The brunch menu at Peck 47 includes multiple savory waffle options with perfectly poached eggs, including The Drunken Sailor (pictured above).

Mokafe is a traditional Belgian restaurant with a massive menu of classics like quiche and fruit waffles. If you’re really short on time and only plan to eat one meal in Brussels, I’d go with Mokafe.

Brussels Stock Exchange

Once you’ve eaten your fill, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets. You can peer into the restaurants and pop into the shops for browsing (or buying chocolate for the road).

As you meander, don’t miss the Brussels Stock Exchange, which is a favorite hangout for revelers on the weekends.

Palais de Bruxelles

Double back southeast through the Grand Place to be amazed all over again. Make your way to the Rue de l’Hôpital and continue south towards the traffic circle. Walk up the Rue Bodenbroek, where you’ll see the Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon.

Just past the church, take a left on the Rue de la Régence. You’ll see the Konigsplein up ahead, and just past it on the right is the Palais de Bruxelles.

From this direction, you’ll first see the Palais du Coudenburg, which houses a museum and archaeological dig site. Head right for a frontal view of the palace.

If you’re spending one day in Brussels in summer, you can enter the palace free of charge Tuesday-Sunday from late July through the end of August. Queues get quite long, so prepare to flex your itinerary if you’d like to go inside for a tour.

Directly opposite the palace gates is a sizeable park. Like the Grand Place, the Parc de Bruxelles hosts festivals and events throughout the year. During our visit, they were setting up for a carnival!

After you stroll through the park, exit via the top-left side to see the St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, where Belgium’s royal weddings take place.

Cinquantenaire

The walk to the Cinquantenaire is a refreshing change from the historic city center. As you head east down the Rue de la Loi, you’ll pass a number of modern governmental buildings, including multiple EU offices.

This part of Brussels has a completely different feel from the rest of the city, which makes approaching the Cinquantenaire even more intriguing.

After you pass the fun rainbow crosswalk, spend some time meandering around the park. If it’s summer, there may be festivals or other special events scattered across the green spaces. There was a board game festival during our visit, which was fun to browse but made photographing the famous archway quite challenging!

If you’re tracking well on time, stop into the Art & History Museum on the right side of the arch to learn more about Belgium’s past.

Once you’re finished admiring the area, pass through the arch and enter the Merode Metro station. Buy a metro ticket using the GO machine, and hop on the  #1 or #5 tram to De Brouckere.

Save me for later!

If you only have one day in Brussels, make sure you dine at Fin de Siècle. Despite being one of the most famous and well-regarded restaurants in Brussels, the atmosphere feels far more casual and homey.

You’ll find the food menu written on the large chalkboard near the bar (pro tip: take a photo of the menu to browse at your table). There’s plenty of delectable Belgian fare like rich Carbonnade beef stew, but you’ll also find other seasonal European dishes.

Note that it used to be cash-only, but I believe they started accepting card payments in 2020.

Galeries Royale

If you opted for Mokafe at lunch, you’ve already visited the Galeries Royale. However, the area really shines in the evening (see what I did there).

Though some of the shops will be closed, there are plenty of hidden surprises in these glamorous halls. We stumbled upon a jazz trio playing outside a champagne bar, and hearing the music echoing through the Galeries made for a special moment.

The Galeries Royale is also a must see during the Brussels Christmas Market. In late November, you’ll find hundreds of golden baubles hanging from the high ceilings, turning the passageway into a holiday masterpiece. The glass shopfronts also put on beautiful Christmas displays.

Shopping in City Center

Nothing settles a full stomach like a mini shopping spree and a late night snack. It would be madness to wrap up a Brussels itinerary without making time for chocolate, frites, and more waffles!

If you’re looking for excellent chocolate at a decent price, head to Leonidas. They have a wide selection of treats at the counter (including ice cream), or you can opt for a box assortment.

Pierre Marcolini is the haute chocolatier of Brussels, with inventive flavors like yuzu and cayenne pepper. In my experience, the quality justifies the high price tag.

Enjoy Belgian Waffles and Frites

Assuming you still have room for more food, finish off the evening with some waffles and/or frites.

Friterie Tabora and Los Churros & Waffle are located right next to each other, and both offer my favorite version of their respective Belgian street food. Friterie Tabora has over 30 sauces to top your frites, from classic mayo to sweet and savory curry.

As you might imagine, the waffles from Los Churros have a churro-like texture to them. If that’s not enough culinary magic to convince you, adding toppings like chocolate and banana make the waffles mind-blowingly delicious.

Map for One Day in Brussels Itinerary

Click here to view the full interactive map!

Have More Than One Day in Brussels?

If you have some extra time to spend in Brussels, here are a few places to add to your itinerary:

• The Atomium : this architectural marvel of metal and spheres is somewhat far from the city center, but the views and uniqueness make it worth the trek.  Grab your skip the line ticket to save time!
• Chateau de Laeken: the official residence of the Belgian royal family is just up the street from the Atomium and boasts beautiful grounds, though the interior is closed to visitors for most of the year.
• Museum of Natural Sciences (Museum voor Natuurwetenschappen): if there’s rain in the forecast, pop into this museum and spend time in the massive dinosaur exhibit.

Where to Go After This 1 day Brussels Itinerary

• Bruges: Take an hour train ride west and spend  one day in Bruges , a fairy tale town with charming Flemish architecture. Book your day trip from Brussels online!
• Amsterdam:  Hop on a train to this gorgeous canal city, and enjoy 2 days in Amsterdam wandering the pretty neighborhoods and impressive museums.
• Paris: It’s less than 2 hours to the City of Light by train, where you can explore the best of Paris in 4 days .
• London:  Take a speedy Eurostar train to St. Pancras station, and spend  4 days in London  doing some sightseeing and uncovering hidden gems.

Brussels is far more than Belgium’s political and financial capital. Between its impressive architecture, delicious food, and charming streets, this city has something for everybody. If you’re planning a trip to Belgium or looking for a weekend break in Europe, I highly recommend spending at least one day in Brussels!

Still wondering what to do in Brussels in one day? Share your questions in the comments below!

19 thoughts on “One Day in Brussels: Itinerary For First Time Visitors”

This brussels itinerary was amazing! I’m thinking of going to Brussels for 2 days and will definitely be using your guide to help plan my trip.

Thanks Jesselyn! It’s even better if you have 2 days, because you won’t be so rushed to see everything. Hope you have a great time in Brussels 🙂

Thank you for this itinerary. My family is considering a day trip to Brussels from London. My youngest is 8 years; how much walking is this itinerary?

Hello Jennifer! There is a significant amount of walking involved in this itinerary, particularly if you walk to the Cinquantenaire. All in all, I’d say it’s around 25,000 steps. However, if you aren’t interested in seeing the EU buildings, you could easily take the metro there and back (instead of walking there). Your kids might also prefer to see the Atomium, so you could swap it in for the Cinquantenaire and take the metro there and back. Hope you have a great trip!

Thank you for taking the time to make a map of your spots! Most travel blogs don’t do this, and it is much appreciated and helpful!

Thanks for the feedback, Rachel! Having the map is a real time-saver when traveling, especially if you add it to your Google Maps app before the trip.

Thank you for the information. I am going to Brussels for 4 days the end of Nov and plan at least 1-2 days in Brussels and a day trip to Bruges and possibly Paris. Trying to fit in as much as I can. I can sleep when I get home. I am going to take a look at The Dominican as possible lodging.

That sounds like a great plan, Theresa! The Dominican is a great option for a short stay in Brussels, because it’s close to the Grand Place and not far from a metro station. Enjoy your visit 🙂

Hi, can I know how to get from Brussels International Airport to the city centre (Grand Place)? I’ve searched for it but I can’t find the exact/accurate answer yet 🙁 oh, not to forget, is it November a good time and low season to be visited ? Thank you 😉

Hello Fariz! You can catch an IC train from the airport to Bruxelles Midi. The train stops at Bruxelles Central on its way there, which is a 5 minute walk from the Grand Place. The IC train runs very frequently (about every 10 minutes) and costs around 12 euros. As for visiting Brussels in November, that is definitely off-season. However, they do open the Christmas markets on the last Friday in November, so crowds will pick up at the very end of the month. Have a great trip!

Do you know how far in advance one would need to book Eurostar tickets from Ashford to Brussels? We will be in Kent in August and want to take a day trip but wanted to know if we could be spontaneous with that, or if I should book tickets now. Thanks!!

Great question, Ilm! Tickets to Brussels rarely sell out (unless there’s a major festival or event). However, they do get noticably more expensive the closer you are to the departure date. You could probably be spontaneous and get a seat, but it might cost you an extra £50 per person!

Hi Chelsea aka @portablewife. I’m very happy you shared your map. It helped me a lot during my day trip to Brussels. I hope many travellers will benefit from this too. Now I’m on my way back to Amsterdam. Thanks again!

Thanks, Emy! I’m glad you had a fun trip to Brussels. It’s a wonderful city for a day trip!

Thank you. This was most helpful. I backpacked Europe in 1989 and although I kept a journal, there are many things I left our or didn’t document. Your blog helped me remember and bring it back to life. Thank you!

Happy I could bring back some fond memories of your trip, Tam!

Hi Chelsea, I enjoyed reading the one-day Brussels itinerary! 🙂 My sister and I are arriving in Brussels (from California) on a Sunday at 0730 – shall we stay overnight in Brussels after all-day sightseeing OR just deposit our luggage in locker (Midi station), do all-day sightseeing then take train to Bruges? Is Brussels worth an expensive overnight accommodation? Keep traveling and sharing your experiences – i love your style of writing and photography

Thank you, Maria-Fe! If you’re arriving at 7:30am and plan to continue on to Bruges, I’d suggest storing your luggage and traveling to Bruges that night. Although hotels in Bruges will probably be more expensive, it’s good to explore the town early in the morning before the day trippers arrive.

Thanks a lot for this!! I literally used this to plan my entire day (had about 8hrs in the city) and I feel satisfied of not having missed out on anything.

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4 giorni in Belgio: itinerario tra Bruxelles, Bruges e Gand

Aggiornato il: Apr 4, 2023

Ho aspettato molto tempo prima di avventurarmi in questo viaggio, il tour delle Fiandre era uno dei viaggi da fare una volta nella vita: servono giusto quattro o cinque giorni per visitare le città principali e appena ho avuto l’occasione, ho acquistato un biglietto aereo low cost e sono partita alla volta del Belgio .

In questo articolo trovi il mio itinerario con consigli day by day per visitare in quattro giorni il Belgio, tra Bruxelles , Bruges e Gand : tra cioccolato dai mille gusti, chilometri macinati in treno e a piedi, metropolitane prese di corsa e waffles al caramello deliziosi.

Info utili da sapere per organizzare un viaggio in Belgio

spesso con le compagnie aeree low cost si atterra all'aeroporto di Bruxelles Charleroi , ad un’ora circa dal centro di Bruxelles; mentre con le compagnie di linea si atterra a Bruxelles Zaventem , l’aeroporto principale della città;

per raggiungere il centro di Bruxelles dall’aeroporto di Charleroi basterà prendere il Flibco (la fermata è proprio davanti all’uscita dell’aeroporto, impossibile sbagliare) e fare il biglietto direttamente davanti al bus;

il biglietto del Flibco costa circa 14/15 euro (a tratta) e il bus porta direttamente alla Stazione Midi (quella a Sud) di Bruxelles: per il ritorno infatti sarà proprio da qui che dovrai prendere il Flibco per tornare all’aeroporto di Bruxelles Charleroi;

le città principali delle Fiandre sono collegate dalla linea ferroviaria , è quindi molto semplice spostarsi da Bruxelles a Bruges, da Bruxelles a Gand e viceversa, in circa 30 minuti o 1 ora di treno;

all’itinerario che ti propongo puoi aggiungere anche la visita alla città di Anversa se hai un giorno in più, sempre raggiungibile via treno dalla Stazione Centrale di Bruxelles oppure dividendo una giornata tra Gand e Anversa o tra Bruges e Anversa;

per rendere questo viaggio ancora più low cost ho deciso di cenare tutte le sere a casa e di concedermi una sola colazione fuori (per assaggiare i waffles), tranne un paio di fermate dal classico Starbucks oppure da EXKi , dove puoi trovare anche un'ampia scelta vegetariana e vegana per i tuoi pranzi veloci;

è un viaggio, a mio avviso, adatto ad ogni stagione perchè le temperature sono sempre abbordabili sia in inverno che in estate.

Primo giorno: cosa vedere a Bruxelles

Sono arrivata alla Stazione Midi all’orario di pranzo circa quindi mi sono subito messa alla ricerca di un posticino per mangiare, magari vegetariano e a pochi soldi. Mi sono diretta a piedi verso il centro città , attraversando il quartiere Marolles (che visiteremo più avanti) fino alla Cattedrale di Notre-Dame de la Chapelle . Proprio di fronte alla Cattedrale ho trovato Pois Chiche , dove ho mangiato un wrap vegetariano con falafel speziati e verdure: delizioso ed economico!

Sono poi volata in appartamento per posare il bagaglio a mano: ho scelto di soggiornare su un Airbnb proprio di fronte alla metro Yzer (linea blu e arancione) che in 5 minuti porta nella zona centrale di Bruxelles: la preziosa Grand Place , dal 1998 Patrimonio Mondiale dell’ UNESCO e circondata dalle case delle corporazioni, dal municipio e dalla Maison du Roi. Consiglio di visitarla in più momenti durante la giornata per poter apprezzare tutta la sua bellezza e magnificenza.

Per queste prime ore ho deciso di camminare per la città senza una meta , scoprendo le vie principali che si diramano dalla Grand Place, passando davanti ai negozi di cioccolato e di waffles a Bruxelles (Pierre Marcolini, Meert, Wittamer, Godiva, ecc… ), visitando le Galeries St.-Hubert e la Galerie Du Roi . Questa zona di Bruxelles si chiama Ilôt Sacré , è proprio qui che potrai trovare alcune delle attrazioni più famose della città: come il Mannekin Pis (incrocio Rue Charles Buls) e la Janneken Pis ( Rue des Buchers) vicino al Delirium Pub.

Ho davvero apprezzato una delle vie principali di Bruxelles, Rue des Bouchers , dove si trovano moltissimi localini in cui assaggiare il piatto più famoso di Bruxelles: les moules frites , ossia le cozze fritte. Molto bello passeggiare qui al tramonto quando le luci delle insegne si accendono, aspettando che il sole scenda per poter ammirare la Grand Place con le luci della sera .

Ho fatto una piccola spesa in uno dei Carrefour (o Despar) disponibili, per cucinare la cena nel mio Airbnb con vista su Bruxelles, ma anche per acquistare qualcosa per le mie colazioni. Dalla cucina affacciata al terrazzo ho ammirato il panorama e le luci della sera, mi sono sentita tremendamente viva: il primo aereo dopo due anni di pandemia. Sono andata a dormire carica di emozioni!

Secondo giorno: Mont des Arts a Bruxelles e Bruges

La mattina del secondo giorno, dopo una colazione casalinga (trucchetto per risparmiare soldi quando si è in viaggio) gustandomi l’alba dal terrazzo, ho preso la metro per andare nel quartiere Sablon a visitare il Mont Des Arts a Bruxelles: sono quindi scesa alla fermata Parc (linea 1 viola o 5 gialla), ho attraversato il Parc de Bruxelles e ho ammirato da fuori il Palais Royal , il Musèe Belvue, la Place Royale e tutti gli edifici del complesso urbanistico come la Biblioteca Reale del Belgio , il Museo Magritte , la Chiesa di St. Michelle e Goudule e il Museo delle Belle Arti di Bruxelles..

Specifico che non ho praticamente mai usato la metro , ho quindi acquistato il biglietto per le singole corse (2,60 euro) secondo le mie necessità. Si possono anche acquistare i biglietti cumulativi per più giorni direttamente alle macchinette poste in tutte le stazioni metro: il biglietto giornaliero con viaggi illimitati ad esempio costa 8 euro.

Da Mont des Arts mi sono diretta verso Place d’Espagne , ho deciso di perdermi tra le vie del quartiere per assaporare la vita quotidiana belga, senza una vera meta, prima di dirigermi verso la Stazione Centrale di Bruxelles per andare a visitare Bruges .

Cosa fare a Bruges in un giorno

Dopo una calda sosta da Starbucks nella Grand Place , dove ho preso un dolcissimo Caramel Macchiato con il latte di soia, mi sono diretta verso la Stazione Centrale di Bruxelles. Qui ho acquistato il biglietto per arrivare a Bruges (o Brugge), seconda tappa di questo tour delle Fiandre : il biglietto A/R costa 28,80 euro e il treno parte circa ogni ora, per un'ora di viaggio totale.

Lascio qui sotto una mini guida su cosa fare a Bruges in un giorno :

dalla Stazione dei treni fino al centro di Bruges sono circa 10 minuti di camminata: inizia in questa occasione ad osservare le vie della città, le case caratteristiche, le mille porte colorate, le finestre a soffietto e gli addobbi in giro per la città;

scegli di visitare Bruges il mercoledì mattina , così puoi ammirare il mercato alimentare nel Markt , la piazza principale dove ci sono le famose case colorate delle corporazioni;

durante le festività natalizie istituiscono un mercato coperto da una cupola trasparente proprio al Markt, ma potrai comunque ammirare il Belfort e gli altri edifici della piazza;

arriva al Burg , la seconda piazza più frequentata di Bruges, in cui si trova il Municipio di Bruges ( Stadhuis ), infatti il Burg è il centro amministrativo della città;

passeggia fino al Begijnhof (il beghinaggio) del XII secolo e visitalo gratuitamente: sono rimasta totalmente incantata dall’energia incredibile di questo posto (te ne parlo meglio nell’articolo dedicato);

arriva fino al Minnewater o Lago dell’amore, proprio qui durante l’inverno montano una graziosa pista da pattinaggio per grandi e piccini;

pranza con uno dei panini low cost di Panos , una delle panetterie più famose delle Fiandre (si trova ovunque);

assaggia una selezione di cioccolato belga (15 cioccolatini circa) da Chocolate Brothers a Bruges: una delizia tutti quei gusti e quelle combinazioni;

entra nel negozio di Dille en Kamille , il mio preferito: qui ho comprato qualche souvenirs insolito, invece che le solite calamite;

all’ora del tramonto fai una crociera tra i canali di Bruges , per ammirare la città da una prospettiva diversa e scorgere edifici particolari.

Terzo giorno: quartiere Marolles a Bruxelles e Gand

Dopo una veloce colazione nel mio Airbnb ho inforcato per la seconda volta la metro (linea 3 verde o 4 rosa) per andare verso un quartiere molto particolare della città di Bruxelles: il quartiere Marolles , una zona ricca di storia e di negozi second hand e vintage , oltre che di antiquariato e vinili.

Al quartiere Marolles non puoi dimenticare di visitare il mercatino delle pulci in Place du Jeu de Balle , sobborgo principale della classe operaia di una volta, che si collega anche a Piazza Bruegel dalla quale potrai prendere l’ ascensore di vetro (Gratis!) che sale a Place Poelaert. In questo modo potrai ammirare la vista panoramica su Bruxelles : peccato il brutto tempo, ma è una cosa molto carina da fare in città!

Nel quartiere Marolles ci sono molti murales da ammirare e una quantità enorme di posticini in cui pranzare/cenare (per tutti i gusti e le tasche), ti consiglio quindi di camminare tra le vie e lasciarti guidare dall’istinto: sicuramente troverai qualcosa di adatto a te e avrai modo di esplorare la città senza troppa programmazione.

Cosa fare a Gand in un giorno

Dopo una pausa da Starbucks per scaldarmi, ho acquistato un biglietto per dirigermi verso Gand (o Gent) in treno. La giornata non era delle migliori, purtroppo il terzo giorno del nostro tour delle Fiandre ha piovuto fino a sera, non ho quindi goduto dell’atmosfera di Gand a pieno, ma è un posto spettacolare, che mi ha incantata fin da subito con la sua atmosfera creepy, tra guglie in stile gotico e architettura medievale.

Dalla Stazione Centrale di Bruxelles, con circa 26 euro, si raggiunge Gand in 30 minuti. Lascio qui una mini guida su cosa fare a Gand in un giorno :

dalla Stazione di Gand fino al centro puoi andare in tram (2,5 euro a tratta) oppure con una camminata di circa 30 minuti: noi abbiamo scelto la camminata per cominciare fin da subito ad assaporare la vita quotidiana di Gand;

passeggia lungo le due banchine principali di Gand: Graslei (riva delle erbe) e Korenlei (riva del grano), dalle case lungo i canali durante il Medioevo si controllava il flusso delle merci che arrivavano in città tramite le barche;

attraversa il Ponte di San Michele e ammira le tre torri della città: quella della Chiesa di San Nicola , il Belfort (campanile di Gand sul quale si può salire per vedere il panorama) e la torre della Chiesa di San Bavone , mi sono innamorata dello stile gotico!

purtroppo abbiamo visitato la città con la pioggia ma ti consiglio di fare anche qui un tour di Gand in battello , ammirando i suoi canali, le banchine e tutte le sue attrazioni dall’acqua;

concediti un ottimo pranzo da Ellis Burger : puoi pranzare sia all’aperto che all’interno del locale e il menù è molto ricco, anche per vegetariani come me, consigliatissimo!

vicino ad Ellis Burger troverai un negozietto molto carino, HEMA , che ti consiglio di spulciare perchè ha dei prezzi onesti e puoi trovare un sacco di souvenirs originali da portare a casa con te (io ho acquistato un quaderno per i miei appunti di viaggio e qualche maschera per il viso);

entra al Castello dei Conti di Fiandra, Gravensteen , che si affaccia sul fiume Leie ed è uno dei simboli della città di Gand, dall'atmosfera medievale e gotica;

visita Gand di venerdì per trovare il mercato in Piazza Vrijdagmarkt: qui potrai anche trovare qualche food truck per un pranzo veloce.

Quarto giorno: l’Atomium di Bruxelles e il Quartiere Europeo

In questo itinerario di quattro giorni in Belgio non potevamo non terminare con alcuni dei simboli della città di Bruxelles: l’ Atomium e il Quartiere Europeo di Bruxelles , in cui sono raccolti alcuni dei più importanti edifici delle Istituzioni Europee .

Ho iniziato la mattinata cercando un posto in cui poter fare il tampone di rientro (in epoca Covid purtroppo serve anche questo!) e con una bella colazione da Maison Dandoy , in Galeries St.-Hubert , per assaggiare i suoi famosi waffles. Ho scelto gli waffles con il topping al caramello, mentre Andrea ha scelto la panna: ti consiglio di scegliere un solo topping a testa, magari diverso, per scambiarlo con il tuo compagno/la tua compagna di avventura, le porzioni sono sufficienti per due persone e potrai risparmiare un po' di soldini.

I soldi che hai risparmiato usali per acquistare il biglietto della metro che ti porterà fino all' Atomium , simbolo dell'Esposizione Universale del 1958. Ti basterà prendere la linea 6 (blu) della metro e scendere alla fermata Heysel/Heizel , vedrai l'Atomium già dal finestrino della metro durante la corsa. Io ho scelto di non salire all'Atomium, perchè avevo poco tempo prima dell'aereo di ritorno, ma il biglietto costa 16 euro e da lassù hai una bella vista panoramica sui dintorni di Bruxelles.

Dopo aver scattato qualche foto ho preso la metro per scendere alla fermata Schuman (linea 1 viola) per dirigermi nella Zona UE di Bruxelles : qui ho ammirato l'edificio del Parlamento Europeo ( Parlamentarium ), il Parc Leopold , la Rotonda Schuman, passeggiando fino al Parc du Cinquantenaire .

Entrando al Parc du Cinquantenaire sono arrivata fino al meraviglioso Arc de Triomphe di Bruxelles, del 1905, circondato dal Museo d'Arte e dal Museo Militare; un vero polmone verde in mezzo agli edifici moderni e al traffico cittadino, in cui trovare pace , silenzio ma anche qualche ora di svago: infatti potrai scovare qualcuno fare la sua corsa giornaliera e qualcun'altro portare a spasso il cane.

Terminato il mio giro mi sono diretta alla Stazione Midi di Bruxelles , dopo un veloce pranzo da Panos (variegati panini low cost), per salire sul Flibco in direzione Aeroporto Charleroi per tornare a casa, ricca di nuove esperienze, con gli occhi pieni di bellezza e l'anima in pace per sentirsi al posto giusto.

Se ti è piaciuto questo articolo ti consiglio di leggere anche gli articoli correlati qui sotto, di accedere alla sezione Europa del mio blog, oppure di seguirmi su Instagram per viaggiare insieme a me.

Buon viaggio!

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Bruxelles, cosa vedere in 2 giorni

Chiara pagliochini.

• 8 minute read

Pronti per scoprire Bruxelles insieme a noi? Musei, buon cibo, street art, superbe architetture: la capitale del Belgio ha molto da offrire. Ecco la nostra guida per vedere Bruxelles in due giorni o in un weekend , con tanti consigli per organizzare al meglio il tuo viaggio.

Bruxelles in 2 giorni: 8 cose da vedere

Su Bruxelles avevamo sentito pareri contrastanti e poco entusiasmo. Invece, la capitale belga ci ha sorpreso per il meglio: è una città vivace, elegante e multietnica, profumata di waffle e patatine fritte, piena di musicisti di strada e spettacolare street art.

Questo non significa che sia priva di difetti. Bruxelles è una grande città e una capitale: i contrasti sociali sono evidenti, anche nelle vie del centro, e spesso si ha un’impressione di non eccezionale pulizia. Per certi aspetti, è simile alla città in cui ho vissuto per tre anni, Bologna. Capace di suscitare amori appassionati e odi furiosi, tutto nello spazio di un solo pensiero.

A Bruxelles abbiamo alloggiato al DRUUM , un b&b da sogno con le camere arredate da diversi artisti contemporanei. Te lo consigliamo di cuore.

Abbiamo visitato Bruxelles nel nostro viaggio in Belgio con Hi Belgium Pass . In questo articolo ti offriamo una guida dettagliata: 8 cose da non perdere in città , più i nostri consigli su dove mangiare, alloggiare e come muoversi a Bruxelles . Cominciamo!

1. Grand Place

2. manneken pis, 4. mont des arts e i musei di bruxelles, 5. place sainte-catherine, 6. cattedrale dei santi michele e gudula, 7. street art a bruxelles, 8. les marolles, dove mangiare a bruxelles, dove dormire a bruxelles, come arrivare a bruxelles, come muoversi a bruxelles, brussels card.

La Grand Place è il cuore di Bruxelles e una delle piazze più belle del mondo, patrimonio dell’umanità UNESCO. Su questo vasto spazio si affacciano gli edifici di rappresentanza del glorioso passato.

Ogni due anni la grande piazza si veste di colori e profumi per il  Flower Carpet : oltre 500mila fiori formano un tappeto   con un disegno originale. L’evento si tiene durante il weekend di Ferragosto: nel 2018 sarà dal 16 al 19 agosto.

Il Municipio ( Stadhuis ), in stile Gotico brabantino, con il suo Belfort, la torre civica alta ben 96 metri, che per bellezza e imponenza è chiamata anche Tour Inimitable . Le Case delle Corporazioni cittadine, una più bella dell’altra, tutte riccamente decorate.

La Grand Place è un luogo da scoprire col naso all’insù, scattando centinaia di fotografie, ammirando gli stupefacenti dettagli delle facciate. Di notte l’illuminazione rende la piazza ancora più suggestiva, perciò ti raccomandiamo una passeggiata serale.

Non riusciamo a spiegarci il successo di questa statua alta 50 centimetri, uno dei simboli di Bruxelles! Il Manneken Pis , un bambino di bronzo che fa la pipì, rappresenterebbe l’indipendenza di spirito degli abitanti della città.

In occasioni speciali, la piccola statua viene rivestita con abiti particolari: il suo guardaroba conta a oggi più di 800 pezzi ed è custodito nella Maison du Roi sulla Grand Place, all’interno del Museo della Città . Noi non abbiamo avuto il tempo di visitarlo, ma dicono sia molto pittoresco.

Museo della Città di Bruxelles – Brussels City Museum

• Orari: dal martedì alla domenica, 10.00-17.00
• Biglietti: adulti € 8, studenti € 4, under 18 gratis, gratis la prima domenica del mese

L’ Atomium , forse il simbolo più conosciuto di Bruxelles e del Belgio, è una struttura costruita per l’Expo del 1958 e progettata dall’architetto André Waterkeyn. Si trova nel parco Heysel , abbastanza lontano dal centro: noi l’abbiamo raggiunto in metro ( linea 6, fermata Heysel ).

L’Atomium è formato da nove sfere, che rappresentano gli atomi di una molecola di cristallo di ferro. Sei sfere sono aperte al pubblico e collegate tra loro da scale mobili: in quella più in alto si trova un ristorante panoramico . Noi andavamo di fretta, perciò ci siamo limitati a qualche foto dall’esterno.

• Orari: tutti i giorni dalle 10 alle 18
• Biglietti: adulti €15, riduzioni per bambini, studenti e anziani (€8 – 13)
• Possibilità di biglietti combinati con museo ADAM
• Ristorante aperto a pranzo (12-15) e cena (19-21.30), chiuso domenica sera

Il Mont des Arts è un’area di Bruxelles che si trova tra il centro e il quartiere reale, costruita a metà Novecento. Dal giardino si può ammirare una bella vista sulla città, mentre a poca distanza si trovano alcuni degli edifici più importanti di Bruxelles: il Palazzo Reale, la Cattedrale e i principali musei della città.

Tra i musei di Bruxelles meritano certamente una visita: il MIM (Museo degli Strumenti Musicali) , il Museo Magritte , il Museo BELvue e il Museo Fin-de-Siècle .

Musei di Brussels, quali vedere? Leggi l’approfondimento

Il quartiere di Sainte Catherine si estende alle spalle della Grand Place, sul lato nord-ovest. Un tempo il fiume Senne, oggi insabbiato, arrivava fin nel cuore della città, risalito da pescherecci, e Sainte Catherine era il mercato ittico di Bruxelles. Di questo passato resta traccia nei rinomati ristoranti di pesce del quartiere.

Su Place Sainte-Catherine si affaccia l’omonima chiesa, che ha una particolarità. Lungo un lato dell’edificio si trova ancora oggi un pissoir , cioè un orinatorio, che i passanti possono usare. Se se la sentono, ovviamente.

Tour guidato a piedi di Bruxelles

È il principale luogo di culto cattolico della città, in stile Gotico brabantino. L’imponente facciata con le due torri dà su un viale alberato: osservarla da distanza, quando la luce del mattino filtra tra le fronde degli alberi, regala una pace unica. L’ingresso è gratuito e l’interno, con le numerose cappelle e vetrate, è molto suggestivo.

A Bruxelles la street art è ovunque. Vere e proprie opere d’arte a cielo aperto, spesso di notevoli dimensioni, pronte a far capolino dove meno te le aspetti. Tra i graffiti che ci hanno più colpito ci sono:

• Manneken Peace , all’angolo tra rue du Chene e rue de l’Etuve
• Tintin , rue dell’Etuve
• Blake Mortimer , rue du Houblon (Sainte-Catherine)
• Spirou aux Marolles , rue Notre-Dame de Grâces (Les Marolles)
• Live with me di Nean, rue du Marche aux Poulets

Ci sono tantissimi altri esempi in città, perciò tieni gli occhi bene aperti e lasciati sorprendere! Qui una mappa con i principali artisti e opere. 

Les Marolles è un antico quartiere popolare di Bruxelles, che ha il suo centro nella Place du Jeau de balle , su cui si affaccia l’Église de la Chapelle. Qui ogni mattina si svolge un pittoresco mercatino delle pulci , dove si può trovare davvero di tutto: vecchie macchine fotografiche, abiti vintage, foto e cartoline, gioielli, cose rotte, distese di posate… È uno spettacolo unico, colorato e surreale.

Probabilmente non è il luogo più adatto dove fare affari o comprare oggetti raffinati, ma è divertente aggirarsi tra le bancarelle “disastrate” per scattare qualche fotografia. Astenersi turisti snob.

Girare per Bruxelles senza avere continuamente fame è davvero difficile. Prendiamo per esempio il waffle : ti viene sbattuto in faccia da ogni vetrina, pile di waffle, montagne di waffle, su cui svolazzano sciami di api affamate. Per non parlare dei localini dall’aspetto deliziosamente hipster…  Dove mangiare a Bruxelles? Ecco alcuni indirizzi da provare:

• Bij den Boer, Quai aux Briques 60

Ottimo ristorante di pesce nel quartiere Sainte-Catherine. Si può scegliere un menù fisso di 4 portate da € 29,50 oppure ordinare alla carta. Qui puoi trovare le frites e moules (cozze e patatine), uno dei piatti più tipici della cucina belga.

• Maison Antoine, place Jourdan 1

Ovvero le migliori frites di Bruxelles . Per raggiungere questo chiosco di patatine fritte, situato nel Quartiere Europeo, abbiamo percorso svariati km a piedi e in bus. Ma ne è valsa assolutamente la pena. Le patatine vengono servite nei classici coni in diversi formati, con tante salse di accompagnamento tra cui scegliere. Per mangiare le frites , ci si può tranquillamente sedere in uno dei bar affacciati sulla piazza e ordinare una birra d’accompagnamento.

• Metro: Station Schuman (linee 1 e 5)
• Bus: 80 – 34 – 59 – 36 – 22

• Ellis Gourmet Burger

Una catena che ha diversi locali in città. Perché in un mondo di insicurezze gastronomiche, l’hamburger (anche veg) è sempre una certezza.

A Bruxelles abbiamo alloggiato al DRUUM , un particolarissimo b&b nel quartiere Saint-Catherine, 15 minuti a piedi dalla Grand Place. La struttura si trova in un suggestivo edificio del 19esimo secolo ed è composta da 6 camere, ognuna arredata in modo diverso da un artista contemporaneo.

Noi abbiamo dormito nella stanza Cathérine Lommée , dove la particolarità è data da un proiettore funzionante e dagli scuri delle finestre che creano giochi di luce sul pavimento. Alzarsi dal letto super comodo è stato difficile: a spingerci, solo il pensiero dei pain au chocolate e delle altre delizie in attesa nella sala colazione.

Bruxelles ha due aeroporti: Bruxelles Zaventem , a 12 km dal centro, e Charleroi , a circa 60 km. A Zaventem arrivano i voli operati da Brussels Airlines, Alitalia, Easyjet e alcune tratte di Ryanair (come Malpensa, Roma Fiumicino e Venezia), mentre a Charleroi atterrano altri voli Ryanair.

Noi abbiamo volato con Brussels Airlines , usufruendo del pacchetto Hi Belgium Pass . L’aeroporto di Zaventem è ottimamente collegato con il centro attraverso una stazione ferroviaria. Ogni 20 minuti circa partono treni per la Gare du Nord, Gare Centrale e Gare du Midi di Bruxelles.

Confronta i prezzi delle compagnie low cost su Skyscanner

Per raggiungere la città da Charleroi esistono invece due possibilità:

• bus shuttle per la Gare du Midi ogni 30 minuti (i biglietti si comprano online o in aeroporto, € 15,50 circa solo andata)
• bus linea A verso stazione di Charleroi Sud (€ 2,70) > treno verso le principali stazioni di Bruxelles (€ 11,70).

Se stai cercando un pratico bagaglio a mano per il tuo viaggio a Bruxelles, ti consigliamo lo zaino Cabin Max , che utilizziamo sempre per i nostri soggiorni in Europa.

A Bruxelles ci siamo spostati prevalentemente a piedi, riuscendo così a farci un’idea abbastanza chiara della città, delle sue luci e ombre. È stato un bel modo di conoscerla e lo consigliamo a tutti.

Alcune attrazioni, tuttavia, sono abbastanza lontane dal centro e per raggiungerle abbiamo usato i mezzi pubblici. Bruxelles è servita da tre stazioni ferroviarie principali, da una rete metropolitana di 4 linee (1, 2, 5 e 6), tram e autobus. I trasporti sono gestiti dalla compagnia Stib . Il costo di una corsa singola su qualsiasi mezzo è di circa 2 €.

Se vuoi visitare Bruxelles senza preoccuparti troppo di biglietti e mezzi pubblici, potrebbe interessarti la Brussels Card , che comprende ingresso gratuito in 39 musei di Bruxelles (tra cui i 5 sopra menzionati) e altri sconti.

È disponibile nel formato da 24, 48 o 72 ore con diversi prezzi. Per esempio la Brussels Card da 48h (comprensiva di mezzi di trasporto illimitati) online costa 46 €.

Per organizzare il tuo viaggio in Belgio, nelle Fiandre e a Bruxelles, ti consigliamo di visitare il sito dell’ente del turismo   VISITFLANDERS.  

Siamo arrivati in fondo a questa guida. Per qualsiasi domanda su Bruxelles ti invitiamo a lasciarci un commento qui sotto. Se stai organizzando un viaggio in Belgio, leggi:

• Belgio: itinerario di 3 giorni nelle Fiandre
• Bruges in un giorno: 8 cose da vedere
• Gent, cosa vedere in un giorno!
• Lovanio in un giorno: 5 cose da vedere
• La birra belga e altre specialità delle Fiandre
• Ypres e i luoghi della prima guerra mondiale

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33 anni, ma ancora non ci credo. In Umbria ho le mie radici, in Irlanda il mio cuore, in Lombardia il lavoro che mi mantiene... mentre cerco l'occasione giusta per mollare gli ormeggi, partire per un viaggio intorno al mondo, scrivere il romanzo della vita.

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13 commenti.

Post utilissimo, con tutte le informazioni utili. Bruxelles è una città sulla quale ho letto tante cose negative: è grigia, noiosa e sporca. Ma seguendovi su Instagram durante il vostro viaggio mi aveva fatto pensare a un posto tutt’altro che grigio e noioso, e questo articolo è una conferma. Forse è una di quelle città come Berlino, dove tanti vedono solo il grigio e il freddo, ma dove tanti altri vedono invece colore e calore. Bellissimo anche il B&B ?

Esatto, anche noi eravamo pronti al peggio! In realtà è una città che ha tanto da dare, nella sua inevitabile complessità. Quello che abbiamo visto (correndo come api impazzite e per questo magari non godendocelo al massimo) ci ha fatto solo venire voglia di tornarci per viverla con più rilassatezza. Un bacione, Silvia 🙂

Grazie ragazzi! Ci vado a fine mese e avevo proprio bisogno di qualche dritta! Proverò sicuramente uno dei ristoranti che consigliate 🙂

Grazie a te, Diego, mi raccomando fai tante bellissime foto. Un abbraccio 🙂

Adoro Bruxelles, semplicemente la adoro con quel suo stile a volte austero, a volte godereccio, è un mix di sensazioni che mi piace molto trovare in una città. Sarà che ho il Belgio nel cuore, avendo reso il mio Erasmus una esperienza davvero speciale, ma Bruxelles ti cattura. E vogliamo mettere le sue incredibili frites e moules? ?

Anche noi siamo Belgio-fili, non c’è ancora una cosa che ci abbia deluso. E nonostante siamo stati due volte quest’anno, non vediamo l’ora di tornarci 😀

Premesso che sto rosicando perché io ho beccato un tempo pessimo, la mia fotocamera e la mia capacità di fotografare all’epoca erano pessime e in sostanza mi sono portata a casa solo fotografie brutte. Infatti quando sento dire che la Grand Piace è bellissima ci rimango sempre perplessa, io l’ho vista con la pioggia e piena di ponteggi -.- e poi inizio a chiedermi perché non sono salita nell’Atomium, il tempo ce lo avevamo…

Siamo stati fortunati perché la Grand Place ci si è mostrata al suo massimo, niente brutti ponteggi. Però il sole non è che sia apparso radioso a benedirla xD Sono stati due giorni infuocati in cui ci muovevamo da una parte all’altra della città per vedere un po’ tutto, però siamo rimasti molto soddisfatti, soprattutto rispetto ai pareri per niente entusiasti di amici e altri blogger. Boh sarà che il Belgio parla al nostro colesterolo 😀

Ciao ragazziiiii

Come va? Spero tutto bene.

Sono finito a Bruxelles per lavoro un po’ per caso e stavo pensando che fare domani, grazie per le dritte 😉

Salutii Simone

Ciao, è possibile che per quanto riguarda i voli è cambiato qualcosa? Nel post viene indicato che “Bruxelles ha due aeroporti: Bruxelles Zaventem, a 12 km dal centro, e Charleroi, a circa 60 km. A Zaventem arrivano i voli operati da Brussels Airlines, Alitalia e Easyjet, mentre a Charleroi atterrano i voli Ryanair”

mentre da una verifica sul sito Ryanair mi da come aereoporto di atterraggio Bruxelles Zaventem.

Ciao Roberta, grazie per la segnalazione, effettivamente Zaventem è diventato uno scalo Ryanair per quanto riguarda voli da Malpensa, Venezia e Roma Fiumicino per esempio.

Ciao ragazzi, possibile che non trovo la possibilità di comprare il pacchetto HI BELGIUM PASS per febbraio? Come posso fare?

Ciao Nicole, non so per quale motivo ma i posti disponibili per febbraio sono in fondo all’elenco dopo luglio (dopo la selezione dell’aeroporto di partenza) https://www.brusselsairlines.com/it-it/promozioni/hiBelgiumPass/default.aspx

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Cosa vedere a Bruxelles

Ecco quali saranno le tappe principali del tuo  tour di Bruxelles

Grand Place

Patrimonio dell’Unesco dal 1998, è considerata una delle più belle piazze del mondo . Le ricche case delle corporazioni, l’Hôtel de Ville (municipio) e la Maison du Roi (sede del museo della città) rendono la piazza unica e affascinante.

Everard t’Serclaes

Il monumento commemorativo racconta la storia di uno dei liberatori della città, ancora oggi un personaggio importante ed in grado anche (forse) di portare fortuna a chi lo incontra

Primo incontro con i murales

Considerata la patria del fumetto (i Puffi e TinTin, tra gli altri, sono nati qui), la “nona arte” è talmente importante che in giro per la città si possono trovare più di 60 murales dedicati ai più vari personaggi.

Manneken Pis

Nonostante le dimensioni ridotte, questa statua è diventata il simbolo di Bruxelles . Circa 130 giorni l’anno è vestito con abiti su misura per le più svariate occasioni. Costruita nel XIV secolo in pietra, data la sua fama è stata rubata e rimpiazzata più volte.

Quartiere di Saint-Géry

Sede di un antico mercato coperto costruito nel XIX secolo, chiamato Halles Saint-Géry, oggi è un luogo pieno di bar e ristoranti. Oltre a ciò, si dice che qui ebbe inizio la storia di Bruxelles nell’anno 979.

Palazzo della Borsa

Costruito nel XIX secolo dove in passato aveva luogo il mercato del burro, il palazzo della Borsa ha ospitato gli uffici della Borsa di Bruxelles fino al 2015.

Quartiere di Santa Caterina

Luogo dove dal XVI secolo venne inaugurato uno dei porti all’interno delle mura della città, ancora oggi ospita alcuni storici edifici, come la chiesa di Santa Caterina e la Torre Nera , una delle poche testimonianze della prima cinta muraria della città.

Place de la Monnaie

La piazza prende il nome dall’antica zecca, che aveva qui la sua sede. Il monumento principale è il Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie , dal quale presero vita i moti rivoluzionari che portarono all’indipendenza del Belgio.

Chiesa di San Nicola (breve visita all’interno)

Fondata nel XII secolo, è una delle prime chiese fondate a Bruxelles . Per via della posizione, è stata costruita con una forma particolare e all’interno si trova la testimonianza di uno degli eventi più distruttivi subiti della città.

Delirium village e Janneken Pis

Nella stradina dove ha sede il Delirium Village , troverete l’iconico Delirium Bar che vanta una collezione di più di 2000 birre . Nello stesso luogo si trova la versione femminile del Manneken Pis, ovvero la Janneken Pis. Pur essendo molto più giovane e meno famosa, questa statuetta merita comunque una visita.

Gallerie Reali Saint-Hubert

Inaugurate prima di alcune gallerie commerciali italiane , come quelle di Milano, ancora oggi ospitano negozi di lusso , ma anche bar e cioccolaterie , tra cui il primo aperto da Jean Neuhaus nel 1857 e dove circa 50 anni dopo fu inventata e venduta la prima pralina belga.

Concattedrale di San Michele e Santa Gudula (breve visita all’interno).

Fondata intorno all’anno 1000, oggi è il principale luogo di culto cristiano cattolico di Bruxelles, intitolato ai due santi protettori della città. Simile sotto alcuni aspetti alla Cattedrale di Notre-Dame di Parigi, presenta gli elementi più caratteristici dello stile gotico brabantino.

Mont des Arts

Questo complesso urbanistico si trova incastonato tra alcuni importanti edifici, tra cui il Palazzo Reale e il Parlamento Belga, e un parco in stile neoclassico. Trovandosi più in alto rispetto al centro, si può godere una magnifica vista sui principali luoghi visitati in precedenza. Il luogo migliore per terminare il nostro tour!

Qualche scatto di quello che vedremo

Pront@ a partire?

• Cosa vedere
• Monumenti e attrazioni turistiche

Grand Place di Bruxelles

La Grand Place è il posto più famoso, frequetato e fotografato di Bruxelles . Con le sue decine di edifici famosi rappresenta uno dei complessi architettonici più belli d'Europa.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt in fiammingo e Grande Piazza in italiano) è il cuore geografico, storico e commerciale di Bruxelles , oltre ad essere una delle piazze più illustri d’Europa. Questa vivace piazza fa parte del complesso architettonico del XVII secolo più bello del Belgio .

Nel 1695 i cannoni dell’esercito francese distrussero gran parte degli edifici della piazza e, successivamente, furono completamente ricostruiti, fatta eccezione per il Palazzo del Comune.

Cosa vedere nella Grand Place

La Grand Place di Bruxelles è parte di un complesso architettonico impressionante, affascinante per qualsiasi visitatore, che, colpito da tanta bellezza, non sa dove dirigere il proprio sguardo.

Questi sono alcuni degli edifici più fotografati  a Bruxelles, sia per importanza che per splendore:

• Hotel de Ville : Situato a sudest della piazza, la sede del Comune è il gioiello architettonico più importante ed antico della piazza . Dell’edificio, datato 1459, colpisce particolarmente la sua torre di 96 metri d’altezza, sormontata da una statua di San Michele, e il tetto perforato da decine di lucernai. Si possono realizzare delle visite guidate, anche se in un orario ridotto , il martedì e il mercoledì pomeriggio, in olandese (alle ore 13:45), in francés (alle ore 14:30) e in inglese (alle ore 15:15).
• Maison du Roi : La Casa del Re si costruì nel 1536 e fu distrutturata nel 1873. Per molti anni fu la residenza dei monarchi, mentre oggi accoglie il Museo della Città (Musée de la Ville), dove si espongono manufatti del XVI secolo, come dipinti, tappeti e i piccoli vestiti del  Manneken Pis .
• Maison des Ducs de Brabant : Fra i civici 14 e 19 della piazza, si trova questo complesso architettonico neoclassico con radici stilistiche fiamminghe, composto dalle sei case della gilda.
• Le Pigeon : Fra i numeri 26 e 27 della piazza si trova Le Pigeon, la casa in cui visse Victor Hugo nel 1852, durante il suo esilio in Belgio .
• Le Renard, Le Cornet e Le Roy d´Espagne : In un unico edificio si trovano le sedi della gilda, Le Renard (la volpe) del 1690 e Le Cornet del 1697. Le Roy d’Espagne è il bar più famoso della Grand Place perché, oltre alla sua ottima birra, offre eccellenti viste panoramiche dalla sua terrazza. Nella sua facciata vi è il busto di Carlo II di Spagna, sovrano del Belgio nel XVII secolo.

Alla sinistra del Palazzo del Comune, vi è una statua in bronzo, che si dice porti buona fortuna accarezzando un suo braccio. Si tratta della statua di Everad't Serclaes , patriota del XIV secolo, deceduto per difendere Bruxelles.

Il cuore di Bruxelles

La Grand Place è il cuore di Bruxelles e il luogo più frequentato della città . Assaporare una birra belga circondati da tanta storia e in mezzo al continuo andirivieni dei turisti e dei cittadini della capitale è indubbiamente un'esperienza unica!

Nel centro di Bruxelles.

Metro : Bourse , linee 3 e 4. Tram : Bourse , linee 31, 32 e 33. Autobus : Bourse , linee 48 e 95; Gare Centrale , linee 38, 65, 71 e 86.

Luoghi vicini

Museo della Città di Bruxelles (31 m) Gallerie Saint Hubert (206 m) Jeanneke Pis (223 m) Manneken Pis (265 m) Cattedrale di Bruxelles (505 m)

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