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Home » Europe » Belgium » Brussels

Insider Brussels Itinerary (2024 • Glow Up)

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

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

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

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

Let’s jump into Brussels!

brussels weekend trip

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A Little Bit About this 3-Day Brussels Itinerary

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

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

brussels weekend trip

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

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

3-Day Brussels Itinerary Overview

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

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

City Centre

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

Night skyline of the Marolles Brussels

The Marolles

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

Saint Gery Brussels

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

Saint Gilles Brussels

Saint Gilles

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

Ixelles Brussels

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

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

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

8:00 am – Visit the Grand Place

Grand Place

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9:00 am – Take a Visit to The Broodhuis

The Broodhuis

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

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

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

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

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

Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert Brussels

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

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

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

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

12:00 pm – Explore the Mont Des Arts

Mont Des Arts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2:30 pm – Experience Manneken Pis

Manneken Pis

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

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

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

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

3:00 pm – Visit Choco-Story Brussels

Choco-Story Brussels

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

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

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

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

8:00 pm – Tackle a Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

Belgian Beer Tasting Tour

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

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

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

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

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

brussels weekend trip

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

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

8:30 am – Experience The Atomium

Experience The Atomium

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

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

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

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

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

10:00 pm – Take a Trip Through Mini Europe

Mini Europe

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

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

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

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

12:00 pm – Experience the Musical Instruments Museum

Musical Instruments Museum

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

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

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

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

Palais Royal

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

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

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

  • Getting there:

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

Musee Royaux Des Beaux Arts

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

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

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

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

5:00 pm – Witness the Notre Dame Du Sablon

Notre Dame Du Sablon

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

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

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

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

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

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

9:00 am – Stroll Through the Parc Du Cinquantenaire

Parc Du Cinquantenaire

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

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

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

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

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

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

11:00 am – Museum des Sciences Naturelles

brussels weekend trip

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

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

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

2:30 pm – Visit the Belgian Comic Arts Museum

Belgian Comic Strip Centre

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

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

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

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

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

5:00 pm – Explore Le Botanique

Le Botanique

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a Brussels Walking Tour

Brussels Walking Tour

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy the Brussels Nightlife

Brussels Nightlife

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

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

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

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

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

Antwerp Day Trip From Brussels

Antwerp Day Trip From Brussels

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

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

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

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

Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour

Bruges Full-Day Guided Tour

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

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

The tour includes return train tickets to Bruges from Brussels!

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

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

When to Visit Brussels

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

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

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

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

Brussels Itinerary

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

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

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

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Brussels

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

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

brussels weekend trip

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

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

How many days in Brussels is enough?

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

Is one day enough to see Brussels?

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

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

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

What Should I Include on a Day Trip to Brussels?

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

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

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

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

brussels weekend trip

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

Mathilde Magnier

Mathilde Magnier

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Wanderers of the World

2 Days in Brussels, Belgium: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Are you looking for advice, tips and inspiration on how to spend 2 days in Brussels? You’re in the right place!

We’ve recently discovered the wonders of Brussels, Belgium’s hip political gem, ourselves. From stunning architecture to famous comic strip murals to the very best in Belgian chocolate , you can easily see the city’s many highlights in a weekend.

How? Well, they’re mostly (and conveniently) found close to the city centre and the infamous gilded buildings of Grand-Place.

Here’s what we recommend you include in your Brussels weekend itinerary. As always, we created this itinerary and tried and tested it ourselves.

Brussels is one of our favourite European cities and we can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself!

2 Days in Brussels Weekend Itinerary

2 Days in Brussels

A Quick Note

You might notice we’ve left out the popular tourist sites of the Atomium and Mini-Europe from this itinerary.

The reason for this is because they’re situated quite far out of the city, which means you would have to miss out on some of the beautiful sights in the city centre itself… especially as you’ve only got two days to spare.

If you can make your trip a longer one, then you may wish to add these two activities to your itinerary. Just don’t feel like you’re missing out if you don’t have time to see them.

Day 1 – Morning

Grand-place.

If you’re anything like us, then Grand-Place is one of the sights you’re most excited to see in Brussels… so why wait?

This impressive square is simply stunning in the daytime – especially if the sun’s shining. Look out for the golden architectural details glinting in the sunlight!

You should also make an effort to come back here at night as well, where you’ll be treated to views of the buildings lit up, making them look silver.

Grand-Place At Night

The Peeing Statues

Dotted around and near to Grand-Place are three peeing statues .

You’ve likely heard of Manneken-Pis, which is the boy version and oldest of the three statues, which was built in the 1600s. He’s become something of a mascot for Brussels over the years and you may even be lucky enough to see him in an interesting outfit!

Next up is Jeanneke-Pis, the girl version. She was built in the 1980s and is so well hidden that only devoted fans can find her. She was actually my favourite because of this!

And lastly, there’s Het Zinneke (sometimes also called Zinneke-Pis), which is the dog version. Built in the 1990s, this cute little dog can be found peeing against a bollard by the side of the road.

When you see these statues, you’ll start your weekend thinking: “Only in Brussels!”

RELATED:  Hidden Gems in Brussels – 10 Oft-Forgotten Brussels Secrets

Manneken Pis

Day 1 – Afternoon

Self-guided chocolate walking tour.

As you’re in Belgium, you must, must, must buy some Belgian chocolate as a souvenir . It’s one of the things they’re most famous for, and honestly, it tastes every bit as incredible as you imagine!

This seems like a great moment to head out on a chocolate walking tour .

You can choose to pay for one or follow a local guide, but we like the idea of doing tours like this ourselves so we can spend as much time in each shop as we like.

We’ve designed a self-guided chocolate walking tour that you can access here , which serves two purposes:

  • It takes you to some of the best chocolate shops in Brussels.
  • It also takes you to some of the prettiest galleries in Brussels.

Meert's Shop Display

Pretty Shopping Galleries

During your chocolate walking tour , you’ll see the very beautiful Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert shopping arcade.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert was built in 1847 and is actually one of the first shopping arcades to be built in Europe. There are three sections within it:

  • Galerie du Roi / King’s Gallery
  • Galerie de la Reine / Queen’s Gallery
  • Galerie des Princes / Gallery of the Princes

After seeing Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, you may well be in the mood to see more stunning shopping galleries in Brussels.

Two more well worth seeing are Galerie Bortier, which is best for books and Passage du Nord, which has lots of charming cafés and tea shops inside it.

Galerie de la Reine

Day 1 – Where To Eat

For lunch today, we’re going to recommend you buy some frîtes. They’ve become something of a local delicacy in Belgium and usually come with a range of sauces for you to choose from.

Two frîtes shops that come highly recommended near Grand-Place are Fritland and Friterie Tabora .

For dinner, you should make it your mission to try some traditional Belgian food like moules (mussels), carbonnade flamande (beef stew) and boulets (meatballs).

There are lots of good restaurants found near the shopping arcades like Le Marmiton near Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, or Belga Queen in between Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and Passage Du Nord.

Make sure you book in advance though and remember to order a Belgian beer with your dinner!

Day 2 – Morning

Self-guided street art walking tour.

The second day of this 2 day Brussels itinerary starts with another self-guided walking tour; this time to see famous street art !

Some of the world’s most famous comics originated in Belgium, including ‘The Adventures of Tintin’, ‘The Smurfs’ and ‘The Adventures of Astérix’.

Belgium’s capital city celebrates this infamy by showcasing over 50 giant comic strip murals along its Comic Book / Comic Strip Route – and this is just one of many reasons why you should visit Brussels!

We’ve designed a self-guided street art walking tour, which you can find here . It covers 10 popular street art pieces, including the most famous ones, and covers 2 miles.

Brussels Comic Strip Mural: Smurfs

Day 2 – Afternoon

Parc de bruxelles.

At around 32 acres, Parc de Bruxelles (also known as the Royal Park) is the largest public park in the centre of Brussels.

It was once the old royal hunting grounds for the Dukes of Brabant and can be found on the site of the former Palace of Coudenberg.

Today, the park is one of the most popular parks in Brussels. It ‘s home to several interesting monuments, landmarks and buildings, such as art deco lamp posts, fountains, a neoclassical-style bandstand and several statues of famous Belgians.

For this itinerary, we recommend you come here for a picnic (if the weather permits) before continuing with your second day in Brussels.

Parc de Bruxelles

Palais de Bruxelles

Found near Parc de Bruxelles is Palais de Bruxelles (aka The Royal Palace of Brussels).

This is where the King of Belgium carries out his administrative tasks and office work, as well as the place where he meets with various political leaders, foreign ambassadors and other guests.

Every summer, the palace opens its doors to the public for free. While at other times of the year, you’ll simply have to admire its beauty and grandeur from the outside.

If you’re in the mood to see more Belgian palaces, then you’ll also find Palais de Coudenberg and Palais d’Egmont nearby.

European Parliament Buildings

Brussels is often known as the political hub of the European Union.

It’s here where the main offices of the Members of the European Parliament are, as well as where important EU debates, summits and votes happen.

If you’re interested in heading inside, then you’ll receive an audio-guided visit free of charge. (Please note that if you have children, they must be at least 14 years old to be allowed inside).

European Parliament Statue

Parc Léopold and Parc du Cinquantenaire

Found just behind the European Parliament buildings are another two Brussels parks.

The first is Parc Léopold, which is a small and very quiet park, with weird bird-like statues throughout. Look out for the City Tree bench and a piece of the Berlin wall on the outskirts of the park.

For those of you who have time to venture further out, Parc du Cinquantenaire awaits.

This park was built in 1880 for the 50th anniversary of Belgium’s independence and is dominated by a huge arch monument at one end.

You can even climb to the top of this archway for free and get an incredible view across Brussels and the European Quarter.

Day 2 – Where To Eat

If the weather permits, we’d recommend taking a picnic and eating it in Parc de Bruxelles for lunch.

For dinner, there are lots of highly rated restaurants near to Montgomery metro station like The Open , Schievelavabo Woluwe , One52 , Gribaumont and Jules & Charles to name just a few. If you’re following this itinerary, you won’t be too far from any of these restaurants once you’ve finished with Parc Léopold and Parc Cinquantenaire.

From here, you can hop straight on a metro at Montgomery to take you to Gare Centrale station, which is just under a 10 minute walk from Grand-Place.

Where To Stay in Brussels for a Weekend

Many first time visitors choose to stay near Grand-Place, as this is where you’ll do the bulk of your sightseeing. Although a very central area, you will pay for that privilege.

If you’re keen to do some day trips to other cities in Belgium , then you may choose to stay somewhere close to either the Gare Centrale or Gare du Midi train stations (the latter also being where the Eurostar terminal is).

Other popular areas in Brussels to check out include Sablon and Saint-Gilles.

Regardless of where you stay, it would be worth looking out for metro stations nearby to your hotel. If you’re not a huge fan of walking, these will be very useful for you.

Where to stay in Brussels

Here are a couple of great hotel options near Grand-Place:

Hotel Agora Brussels Grand Place: Boasting lots of unusual features in the bedrooms such as wooden beams, bricked over fireplaces and mezzanines, this hotel is definitely quirky, despite being so close to the city’s centre.

Hotel Hubert Grand Place: Lavishly decorated throughout and complete with interesting artwork, this hotel promises a really comfortable stay within the city centre.

Here are some good options to try near to the main train stations:

Pullman Brussels Centre Midi: Boasting a location actually on the Gare du Midi plot itself, this hotel has spacious modern rooms, complete with Chromecast TV technology and rain showers in the bathrooms.

Courtyard by Marriott Brussels EU: Found close to Gare Centrale train station, this hotel is a typical Marriott chain hotel, offering modern spacious rooms, a 24-hour front desk and even a hotel gym.

Motel One Brussels: Also found close to Gare Centrale, this hotel has been lavishly decorated throughout and is very modern. The rooms are a little on the smaller side compared with the other two hotels above, but they’re perfectly adequate for a weekend in Brussels.

And here are some other Brussels hotels worth investigating:

B&B Aquarelle: Located in popular Saint-Gilles and just around the corner from Porte de Hal metro station, this picturesque B&B housed in a renovated Art Nouveau townhouse, promises a comfortable, spacious and modern stay in Brussels.

Be and Be Sablon 13: Found in the charming district of Sablon, this modern B&B offers spacious, well-equipped rooms and a cosy atmosphere. It’s just around the corner from Palais de Justice, as well as two different metro stations.

How To Get To Brussels

There’s an international airport roughly 7.5 miles north of Brussels, which covers over 200 destinations worldwide.

To get from the airport into the city centre will require using either a private airport transfer service, the train, a bus or a taxi.

Brussels is also well-connected across Belgium and internationally via its extensive rail network.

In fact, Brussels is a stop on the Eurostar , which is a much more relaxed way to visit the city… and comes highly recommended by us!

Grand Place in Brussels

How To Get Around Brussels

Brussels is a fairly small city, which means it’s very easy to get around on foot. During our long weekend in Brussels last year, we walked pretty much everywhere and only got one bus and a metro during our entire stay.

That said, the bus and metro networks are really handy (and easy to use) when you don’t feel like walking, or when you’re further out of the city centre.

The main network that operates both buses and metros is STIB-MIVB , and the great thing is that your ticket can be used on all metros, trams and buses!

If only using the public transport sparingly, then you can buy a one-way ticket, which is valid for 1 hour after you’ve validated it in a metro, bus or tram machine, and can be used throughout that hour regardless of how often you change lines or modes of transport.

You can also buy return tickets, as well as five and ten journey tickets, or if you’re planning on using the metro or buses a lot during your stay, then you can also buy a one day travel card.

Click to find out more >>>

Have Longer To Spend in Belgium? Try Some Day Trips!

Alongside your weekend in Brussels itinerary, Belgium’s capital city is also the perfect base with which to explore the rest of the country . Trains between cities are fast, reliable and cheap.

A trip to popular Bruges from Brussels takes less than an hour, as does a trip to the diamond district of Antwerp, and a trip to historic Ghent takes just over 30 minutes.

So now you have no excuse to see more of this pretty little country!

Read More: 3 Days in Belgium Itinerary (3 Cities in 3 Days!)

We hope you found the above tips useful! If you’ve still got unanswered questions about how to spend the perfect weekend in Brussels, then just drop a comment below and we’ll get back to you asap!

Need help planning your trip to Brussels? We also offer custom travel planning services !

Did you like this 2 days in Brussels itinerary? Share it around now!

2 Days in Brussels, Belgium: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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Mont des Arts - Things to do in Brussels

How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Brussels

Planning a short visit to Brussels and not sure how to spend your time? Here is a weekend guide to Brussels Belgium with all the top things to do in Brussels, including the most useful tips that will help you plan your perfect itinerary.

Belgium’s capital, the City of Brussels, is without a doubt one of the most underappreciated cities in Western Europe. I often talk to people about Brussels, the city is perceived as being filthy, dangerous and boring. I’ve been to Brussels many times and I find these assumptions to be unfounded.

Brussels’ obvious social problems aren’t different to those of other big cities in Europe and they shouldn’t be a reason for you to miss out on the many excellent things the city offers. Spend a weekend in Brussels or longer and you’ll definitely find your visit to be worthwhile.

First things first, here are some answers to Brussels Travel FAQ .

What is Brussels best known for?

Brussels is best known for being ” Europe’s Capital” due to the countless organisations headquartered in the city such as the European Union, NATO and many others. The Grand Place, Brussels central square, regularly tops the list of the world’s most beautiful town squares.

Belgian Chocolate - Chocoholic- Things to do in Brussels

Foodies and beer lovers strongly concur that Brussels is a paradise. Belgian chocolate, waffles, fries and beer are truly special and are among the world’s best.

Are two days in Brussels enough?

Even though Brussels is small, the attractions are spread out throughout the city center, but an extensive transport network makes it possible to explore it within two days. In actual fact, there are so many things to do in Brussels, so two days or a weekend might not be enough but will definitely give you a good overview of what the city offers.

Here is my suggestion of the best things to do in Brussels this weekend .

What to do in Brussels

1. take a free walking tour, price: tip-based.

One of the best things to do in Brussels during your tour of the city is to join a Free Walking Tour . I always recommend free walking tours as an initial activity in any city as they help you to quickly familiarise yourself with your surroundings, guide you past all the major attractions and offer you interesting insights which you won’t find elsewhere.

Walking Tour, Grand Place - Things to do in Brussels

Brussels has many walking tours which all start from its central square, the Grand Place, lasting about 2.5 hours. I’ve taken Sandman’s Free Walking Tour and I found it to be pretty good. Their guides offer you tips on where to find the best waffles, fries, chocolate and beer and they will give you an interesting historical overview of Brussels tourists attractions.

2. Explore The Grand Place

If you’re exploring Brussels by yourself, make the Grand Place your first port of call because it’s one of the most famous sights to see in Brussels. The Grand Place is a public square that features magnificent buildings of Baroque, Gothic and Louis XVI architectural styles from the late 17th century, earning the square a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Grand Place - Things to do in Brussels

The Grand Place dates back to the 12th century starting off as a general trading area for Brussels’ citizens, as the city grew, local authorities, powerful Guilds of Brussels and people of considerable wealth established themselves on the square. Brussels City Museum, housed in the former “Kings House” is a good place to learn the real history of the Grand Place and the City of Brussels.

Flower Market, Grand Place - Things to do in Brussels

The Grand Place is a vibrant spot and a centre for tourists in Brussels who visit to marvel at the beauty of the square and enjoy a variety of different entertainment which includes enticing chocolate shops, restaurants and bars which are perfect for people-watching.

Every two years in August, the Grand Place attracts a huge crowd who come to see it covered in an impressive colourful carpet made from fresh begonias, so keep in mind August is a busy period to visit Brussels.

3. Take a Guided Tour of the Town Hall

Price: €7 adults, 55 mins tour.

Built during the 15th century, the Town Hall is one of the only remaining medieval structures on the Grand Place. The Town Hall takes centre stage at the Grand Place due to its grand size, ornate exterior decorations and its impressive tower which is visible from most places around Brussels.

Town Hall, Grand Place - Things to do in Brussels

If you’re visiting on a weekend and are interested in viewing the interior of this architectural gem, well, you’re in luck. The Town Hall is open to the public being escorted by a local guide every Wednesday and Sunday with no prior booking required. Book tickets online

4. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate

Since the invention of the first Belgian Praline in 1912, Belgians and the world can’t seem to get enough of Belgian chocolate . There are over 2,000 chocolate shops in Belgium and the country is among the top four countries responsible for all the chocolate consumed in the world.

I must confess that my love for Belgian chocolate is the main reason I adore Brussels.

Mary's Brussels - Things to do in Brussels

As you walk around Brussels, it’s impossible to resist the countless, elaborately decorated chocolate shops with stacks of assorted chocolates. You may disagree, but the highest quality Belgian chocolate in Brussels is found in the ornate boutiques of the famous Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert.

Belgian Chocolate, Chocolatier Mary - Things to do in Brussels

Belgium’s most esteemed chocolatiers have a spot at the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert with boutiques that are just as attractive as the chocolate they sell, particularly outstanding is chocolatier Mary.

Chocolatier Jean Neuhaus’ classic truffle which is made with buttercream filling encrusted with a thin layer of chocolate and a cocoa powder coating, is the best truffle you’ll ever eat. Personally, Pierre Marcolini’s chocolates and macarons are the best in Royal Galleries.

Royal Galleries - Things to do in Brussels

As you’ll find during your visit, good quality Belgian chocolate comes with a hefty price tag. A fun and cost-effective way to treat yourself would be to visit as many Brussels chocolatiers as you can while sampling some of their top recommendations. I recommend this so you can buy your actual favourites.

5. Join Laurent Gerbaud’s Chocolate Workshop

Price: adult €35 , child €15 sat 11.30-1300.

Chocolatier Laurent Gerbaud’s Belgian chocolate-making workshops are held every Saturday from his Rue Ravenstein address, just a few steps from Mont Des Arts. If you’re in Brussels during the weekend, joining one of the workshops will be a fun way to learn how to make real Belgian chocolate from a master chocolatier whose chocolate is not only delicious but is among the best in the country.

Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier - Things to do in brussels

During the workshops, you’ll get to taste a variety of cocoa beans that you will use to make your own chocolate, learn how to properly taste chocolate and of course sample some top recommendations in Laurent Gerbaud’s own collection.

Even if you don’t fancy getting your hands messy, Laurent Gerbaud’s shop is a place not to miss during your quest for the best Belgian chocolate. His chocolates are combined with fruits and spices inspired by his own travel adventures which will make you appreciate Belgian chocolate even more.

Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier - Things to do in Brussels

Laurent Gerbaud extends his adventurous flavours to his extensive vegan chocolate range, making his shop one of the best spots for vegans in Brussels. When you’re finished, don’t miss Laurent Gerbaud’s cafe for its highly-rated hot chocolate.

Popular Belgian Making Chocolate Workshop

6. Induldge at Maison Dandoy

Maison Dandoy , Brussels’ oldest and most famous artisanal biscuit bakery, is the place to go to enjoy some of the most delicious sweet treats the city is widely known for.

Maison Dandoy’s waffles are quite simply, a delight that every visitor to Brussels should have. Both Brussels waffles (rectangular, light and fluffy) and Liege waffles (rounded, rich and caramelised) are offered with all sorts of toppings, though I prefer mine plain.

Speculoos, Maison Dandoy - Things to do in Brussels

In addition to irresistibly tanned madeleines, Maison Dandoy’s other popular menu items include beautifully designed and packaged speculoos (spiced Belgian cookies) which make perfect gifts.

Waffles, Maison Dandoy - Things to do in Brussels

Maison Dandoy has three boutiques in Brussels but my favourite is the Rue Charles Buls boutique and tea room, located a few steps from the Grand Place and on the way to the Manneken Pis Statue.

Join a Belgium Waffles Making Workshop

7. Check out Manneken Pis Statue

The Mannekin Pis Statue is one of the most recognisable symbols of Brussels. The 61cm (24 inches) bronze statue depicting a little boy urinating in a fountain basin dates back to the 17th century, originally serving as the means by which Brussels’ citizens were supplied with water. The huge fascination to Mannekin Pis for many is the innocence and humour the statue portrays.

Across the centuries, Mannekin Pis Statue faced vandalism and numerous thefts prompting the authorities to preserve the original statue and replace it with a replica which is displayed on Rue de l’Étuve.

Manneken Pis Statue - Things to do in Brussels

A tradition to dress the Mannekin Pis Statue in costumes often gifted to Brussels by foreign dignitaries dating back from 1698, still stands to this day. The real Mannekin Pis Statue amassed a collection of over 1, 000 outfits which are housed in Brussels City Museum.

8. Explore the Royal Palace or Palais Royal

One of the most delightful activities in Brussels is to take a simple stroll around the Royal Palace or Palais Royal marvelling at the magnificent architecture, not only of the palace but also of the other buildings within its vicinity. The Royal Palace was built between 1820 and 1934 in Neoclassical style on the site of a former palace that was engulfed by flames.

Royal Palace -Things to do in Brussels

The 18th-century gardens surrounding the park are just as beautiful as the palace and complement each other well. The Royal Palace is one of the attractions in Brussels that you will appreciate even from the outside.

Royal Palace_ Palais Royal-2 - Things to do in Brussels

Every summer, the Royal Palace opens its doors to the public to tour some of the palace’s prestigious rooms. The Royal Palace continues to function as Belgium’s King’s administrative centre and venue for receiving and entertaining distinguished guests and visiting heads of state.

The most notable museums to check out in Belgium such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium , René Magritte Museum and Musical Instruments Museums , are all located around the Royal Palace. If you plan to visit, make sure to visit the Tourist Information Centre at Place Royal for the best ticket deals or info about Brussels Card.

9. Stop by Église Notre Dame du Sablon

Notre Dame du Sablon - Things to do in Brussels

The Église Notre Dame du Sablon (Church of Our Lady of Sablon), located in the Brussels neighbourhood of Sablon, is undoubtedly the most exceptional church in the city. It was built during the 15th century in the late Gothic style on the site of a former chapel from the 13th century.

Notre Dame du Sablon, Interior - Things to do in Brussels

Notre Dame’s interior, which sets it apart from the rest of the churches in Brussels, includes colourful stained glass windows, magnificent paintings and two side chapels decorated with elaborate Baroque sculptures from the 17th century. The rich decorations of Notre Dame du Sablon are attributed to the wealthy families of 17th Brussels whose remains are buried in the church.

10. Visit the Atomium

The Atomium is one of the most famous Brussels attractions for tourists which was initially opened in 1958 for the Brussels World Fair. The 102-metre structure which consists of 9 impressive steel cubes that bear resemblance to an iron unit cell, iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, was built in line with the 1958 World Fair’s theme of celebrating technological and scientific advances.

Atomium - Things to do in Brussels

Only five cubes of the Atomium are opened to the public to enjoy awesome views of Brussels’ skyline and learn about the history of the 1958 World Fair and the restorative works done to the structure over the years. A park with beautiful gardens and water fountains makes the area around the Atomium lovely to hang out in, especially if visiting during the summer months.

Book tickets in advance to avoid lengthy queues.

11. try a belgian beer at the bars at mont des arts.

Heading to the outdoor bars at Mont des Arts and having a Belgian beer-fuelled night is one of my top picks of fun things to do in Brussels. Belgium tops among countries with the most diverse in the beer industry, however, don’t look to try them all in one visit or else you’ll regret it.

Belgian Beer, Westmalle - Things to do in Brussels

Worth checking out would be Trappist-style beers since Belgian monks are considered to be masters of brewing. Westmalle Tripel, Chimay Tripel and Rochefort 10 are great Trappist beers I’d recommend for you to try.

Mont des Arts - Things to do in Brussels

The outdoor bars at Mont des Arts are an exceptional setting to soak up Belgium’s marvellous beer culture. If you’re into Middle Eastern Cuisine, don’t miss your chance to try the delicious food at Sumac Restaurant at Plein Publiek.

Join a Beer Tasting Tour

12. check out the food at wolf food market.

Wolf Food Market is one of the liveliest dining spots in Brussels which was converted from being a bank into a food market in 2019. It’s located in the heart of the city, very close to Brussels Central Station. Wolf is one of our favourite places to eat and hang out in Brussels because there is a great range of reasonably priced food, drink and entertainment.

Wolf -Brussels - Things to do in Brussels

Over 19 stalls at Wolf offer a variety of different cuisines from across the world like Greek, Vietnamese and Syrian-Lebanese. Personally, the real appeal of Wolf is food which reflects Brussels’ cultural diversity. All the food here is lovely, but our favourite is the Ethiopian, Toukoul.

Opens daily – 12 pm to 11 pm

13. learn about art nouveau architecture at horta museum, price: art nouveau pass offers the best deals.

A highlight of my recent trip to Brussels was a visit to the Horta Museum which is the former home and studio of Belgium’s most celebrated Art Nouveau architect and designer, Victor Horta. Art Nouveau flourished in Europe during the mid-19th century and was mostly used in creating interior design products and jewellery. Victor Horta is credited for introducing Art Nouveau into architecture.

Designed and built in 1898 by Horta himself, the Horta Museum is said to be a masterpiece of Art Nouveau, earning a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Horta’s few other masterpieces of that time.

Art Nouveau Architecture, Horta Museum - Things to do in Brussels

Though the house exterior looks unassuming, its interior is quite impressive featuring a staircase styled with a blend of marble and ornamental iron, colourful plant motifs and various types of wood.

The rooms of the house are furnished with art designed and sculpted either by Horta or his acquaintances. Horta’s art equipment and architectural plans for some of his famous creations also form part of the permanent museum display.

rt Nouveau Architecture, Victor Horta Museum - Things to do in Brussels

The Horta Museum is one of the best places to visit in Brussels particularly if you’re a big fan of Art Nouveau. In actual fact, the whole municipality of Saint Giles where Horta Museum is located is an Art Nouveau houses treasure trove. Book online here .

14. Tour the Musical Instrument Museum at the Old England Building

Price: art nouveau pass offers entry to the mim.

The Musical Instrument Museum located in the striking, Old England Building , is one of the must-do things in Brussels for both music and Art Nouveau enthusiasts. Built in 1899 in Art Nouveau style to house a department store, the Old England Building went through massive restorative works and opened in 2000 as the Musical Instrument Museum.

Musical Instrument Museum, Old England Building - Things to do in Brussels

The Musical Instrument Museum’s highly regarded permanent exhibition consists of over 7, 000 musical instruments from around the world, ranging from the late medieval ages up to the late 19th century.

This is a museum to visit when you have plenty of time since the museum’s collection is spread over four floors and is grouped into various themes which include traditional instruments from across the world, western European musical instruments and mechanical instruments.

Congoleese Drums, Musical Instrument Museum - Things to do in Brussels

I was quite fascinated by the Indian and African collection as well as the many variations of bagpipes which like all other instruments at the museum, came with interesting insights and recorded sounds. If you plan to visit, just remember to bring along a set of earphones for the audio guide.

Musical Instrument Museum is one of the few Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels which has an exterior just as captivating as the interior.

15. Check the Belgian Comic Strip Centre or Comic Art Museum

Visiting the Belgian Comic Strip Centre or Comic Art Museum is one of the most fun things to do in Brussels especially if you’re a huge fan of comics. If you’re visiting Brussels for the first time, you won’t get far before you realise how big a deal comics are in Belgian culture.

Belgium tops the list of countries in the world with the highest density of comic writers and illustrators. The Belgian Comic Strip Centre celebrates Belgian comic strip writers and their work past and present.

Belgian Comic Strip Centre - Things to do in Brussels

Besides a permanent exhibition of famous Belgian comics like Tintin, Spirou and Smurfs, the museum runs temporary exhibitions of up-and-coming Belgian comics as well as comics from around the world. The museum is currently running an exhibition on the rise of Korean comics which I found intriguing as it provided interesting insights into South Korean life.

Belgian Comic Strip Centre - Things to do in Brussels

While I’m not a fan of comics art, I found my visit to the Belgian Comic Strip Centre to be imaginative and learnt a thing or two about the history of comic art and the process involved in writing a comic book or comic strip.

In addition, the building where the Belgian Comic Strip Centre is housed within one of Horta’s beautiful Art Nouveau creations, so visiting the museum was a win-win for me.

Located: Rue des Sables 20, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

16. Visit the Train World

Price: adults €15 , children €11.

One of the best things to do in Brussels with kids, train enthusiasts or anyone who loves to discover, is to visit the Train World railway museum.

The museum which is located in Schaerbeek Station, one of Belgium’s very first train stations, offers a unique experience that combines uncovering railway curiosities and fascinating facts about the history of rail in Belgium which dates as far back as 1835.

Train World - Things to do in Brussels

Train World’s permanent exhibition consists of an actual 19th-century railway bridge, original vintage and royal carriages, and unique trains from the National Railway Company of Belgium’s collection throughout history including a rare and well-preserved steam locomotive built in 1845.

I’m sure if you’re a rail fan you’ll be excited to get up close and grab a seat in some of the world’s rare and oldest trains. Plan your visit here

17. Tour the European Parliament

Price: free.

It’s widely accepted that Brussels is the capital of Europe since the city is the centre of most of the European Union’s main bodies like the European Parliament . The European Parliament in Brussels is located about a 20-minute walk from the city centre or by public transport which is a bit confusing and takes just as long.

European Parliament, Member States Flags - Things to do in Brussels

One of the most popular things to do during your visit is to join the free guided tour of the European Parliament Hemicycle where all 705 European Parliament Members meet. The tour is worthwhile if you’re keen to learn how the European Parliament works.

European Parliament Hemicycle - Things to do in Brussels

You could also take a self-guided tour of the complex which is lovely and probably your only option if you’re visiting on a weekend because the guided tours are offered Monday to Friday. Either way, Station Europe will be a good starting point to explore the European Parliament complex. Plan your visit here .

18. Visit the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History

Price: adults €11 , children €9.

If you’re fascinated with history and military heritage, choose to combine your visit to the European Parliament with the nearby Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History .

The highly regarded Royal Military Museum , located in Jubilee Park or Cinquantenaire Park (one of Brussel’s largest urban parks), is home to one of the world’s largest collections of military memorabilia relating to the Belgian Army which spans from the Middle Ages to the present, so if this is your scene, definitely add it to your list of things to see in Brussels.

19. Try the fries at Friterie Tabora

Belgians are masters in making fries, you just can’t leave Brussels without trying them. Fries may look simple to make but the Belgian fry requires a whole set of skills to perfect.

Friterie Tabora, located a few steps from the Grand Place, is my top recommendation in Brussels to eat perfect Belgian fries. It’s an unassuming place but you’ll know by the long queue that something special awaits.

Friterie Tabora - Things to do in Brussels

The fries are cooked to perfection with nice crispiness and come with a choice of over 40 sauces. Traditionally they’re eaten with mayonnaise which is taking me some time to get used to.

Look out for Fritland , located a short walk from Friterie Tabora and very close to the Brussels Stock Exchange. It’s another place to eat really good fries in Brussels.

Staying longer in Brussels?

20. take a day trip to bruges.

One of the great things about Brussels is that there are just so many excellent places within the city’s vicinity which make great day trips. Bruges and Ghent are two amazing cities which are easily reached by train from Brussels and can be explored in one day if you’re short on time.

Bruges - Things to do in Belgium

Bruges’ well-preserved rich medieval heritage will certainly delight fans of architecture. During the Medieval Ages, Bruges was one of the most important trading and economically successful cities in Europe. Many of the gorgeous buildings in its historic centre were also built around this period.

In addition, Bruges’ historic centre is surrounded by a pretty canal network, so it’s really lovely to explore. Taking a free Bruges walking tour is a great way to learn about the city’s fascinating past and will make good use of time.

21. Take a day trip to Ghent

While Ghent’s medieval heritage is equally interesting, personally, the city’s true beauty lies in its cobbled streets which are filled with stylish and cosy cafes, often filled with a young and vibrant crowd. Ghent is an ideal place to relax, have a coffee in a scenic outdoor cafe or go on a boat cruise along River Leie to marvel at the city’s medieval treasurers.

Ghent Belgium - Things to do in Brussels

Bruges and Ghent Tours

I hope you enjoy Brussels! If you’ve any questions, do get in touch. I will be glad to help.

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January 5, 2023 at 9:32 pm

I recently took a trip to Brussels and it was an incredible experience. One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the Grand Place. The square was surrounded by stunning guild halls and the Town Hall, and it was a great place to watch and grab a bite to eat at one of the outdoor cafes.

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January 13, 2023 at 9:58 pm

Thanks Alice for the feedback! I’m glad you enjoyed Brussels. I love the vibe on the Grand Palace too. I hope you got to treat yourself to loads of chocolate 😊

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2 days in Brussels Itinerary: How to spend a weekend in Brussels

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Wondering how to spend a weekend in Brussels? We got you covered. The capital of Belgium, Brussels is a city that has been described as “the melting pot of Europe”. It’s also a very popular tourist destination and it’s easy to see why. In this post, we will share an easy to follow 2 days in Brussels itinerary. 

With its wide range of architectural styles, modern and traditional shops and restaurants, museums, galleries, and the famous Grand Place with its beautiful buildings dating back to the 14th century, Brussels has something for everyone.

2 days in Brussels Itinerary: How to spend a weekend in Brussels 

brussels weekend trip

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Brussels is like no other city in the world. Apart from being the capital of the European Union, it has two official native languages, namely French and Dutch. 

The downtown area, apart from being well known for its architectural landmarks, also serves as a centre for some of the most powerful international organizations such as the NATO and EU.

2 day Brussels itinerary: What to do in Brussels on a weekend – a snapshot

  • Day 1 of 2 days in Brussels itinerary : Grand Place, Rue des Bouchers, Les Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, European Quarter, Parc, Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis
  • Day 2 of 2 days in Brussels itinerary : Mini Europe, Atomium, Comic Strip tour, Mont Des Arts, Chocolate making workshop, Beer tasting tour

Enjoying a great location in the centre of the continent makes it one of the most easily accessible destinations in Europe. (The Eurostar from London takes less than two hours to reach Brussels). 

Royal Palace Brussels

Since Brussels is an extremely compact and walkable city, it is possible to achieve a lot in the limited two days you have at your disposal. So put on some comfortable walking shoes and dive straight into this specially crafted Brussels itinerary to make the most of your forty-eight hours in the comic capital of Europe.

(Please note this itinerary is designed for a weekend getaway, as timings of the attractions or closure days often change during weekdays. So make sure you check out the opening hours of the top attractions and the museums before your planned visit).

Read: One day in Brussels itinerary | Belgium itinerary

Planning your trip to Brussels: Tour recommendations and trip preparation

When visiting Brussels on a weekend trip, we recommend sticking to the central area and booking accommodation there.

If flying to Brussels, opt for the Brussels Airport (BRU). It is tempting to fly into Charleroi Airport as it serves the budget carriers, and has cheaper fares when flying into Brussels Airport. 

However, Charleroi has no train station and the only way to get to downtown (one hour and a half away) is by shuttle bus or private transfer. So this costs a little more and should be factored in the total budget (and time).

So choose BRU instead. From Brussels airport to Central Brussels is

  • 17 minutes by train
  • 30 minutes by shuttle bus
  • 15 minutes by car/taxi. You can book a private transfer here

Where to stay in Brussels for the weekend?

Since most of the top attractions are within easy reach of the city centre, it is best to stay in this part of Brussels. 

We stayed at the easyHotel Brussels City Centre for more than a week, and it was convenient and amazing for a long-term stay. You can check availability here

Inside easyHotel Brussels

For a short trip, we have some more recommendations below. All the hotels we list have an X-factor that is sure to take your vacation to a new level:

  • Hotel Amigo (Luxury): Short of being in the Grand Palace, the hotel is as close as it gets to the historical centre of Brussels. They have unfussy cool interiors with particular stress on locally sourced fixtures with a distinct Belgian touch. Check photos and reviews here.
  • Warwick Brussels: (Mid-range): Enjoying the best possible location with excellent views of the Grand Place, this vintage hotel has comfortable rooms with marble floor bathrooms. The hotel is also minutes away from the Metro Gare Centrale train station. The service is extraordinary and the complimentary breakfast is amazing. Book it here.
  • Made in Louise (Boutique): Dating back to 1911, the core of this hotel has managed to retain its old charm in the original six-storey stairwell. Rooms have been designed with an eye on homemade touches, bold wallpapers, and calligraphy directions posted on the walls. Check out prices and availability here.
  • Meininger Hotel (Budget-€45): This novel building is a part of a dynamic chain of German entrepreneurs that aims to improve the hostel culture. The accommodation is good and flexible and the atmosphere easy-going. A competitively priced hotel in the heart of the city. Book your stay here.

Free WiFi is standard and most hotels have self-catering facilities. Some also include complimentary breakfast as well. 

Tickets and attractions pass: 

For sightseeing, the first thing you should get is the Visit Brussels card which includes entry to as many as 49 museums in the city, offers unlimited travel on public transport, and discounts in shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs.

View of Grand Place in Brussels

You will save approximately €39 if you opt for the 48 hours Brussels Card (£60.5).

If you are under 26, buy a Go Pass 1 for trips on the Belgian train system. At €6.4 it allows you to travel anywhere in the country at a ridiculously low price. This is the cost of a one-way second-class ticket but can be upgraded to first-class by paying a supplement.

Another option is to book a hop on and hop off sightseeing tour and use that to explore various landmarks with ease. This transport/tour will allow you to get down as you please, especially for attractions that are located outside the city center (or on the outskirts of Brussels).

Day 1 of 2 days in Brussels itinerary: Grand Place, Rue des Bouchers, Les Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, European Quarter, Parc, Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis

This Brussels 2 day itinerary assumes that you will be in the city the night before. But if you happen to land in the morning at Brussels Airport, then it will be close to midday by the time you have checked in your hotel. 

Still, you will be able to see some of the most beautiful parts of the city on the first morning itself.

Brussels Grand Place & nearby attractions

As soon as your luggage is in the room, start as soon as possible for a stroll around the city’s main square and the most popular part of Brussels, the Grand Place .

Girl in Grand Place Brussels 2 day itinerary

Here you will come across some neo-classical buildings such as La Maison du Roi and the Town Hall and the emblematic institution, The Brussels Stock Exchange, and the Brussels City Museum.  

Book : Guided tour of Brussels

After the walk, head back towards Grand Place and take the Rue des Bouchers , a street full of restaurants. This was where once the city’s butchers did their business from, but today you can enjoy a traditional Belgian dish here, including the signature dish of mussels and chips.

Do not forget to wash it down with a good Belgian beer at a nearby bar. Or chocolates. 

Located near the Grand Place is also the beautiful shopping arcade, Les Galeries Saint Hubert . 

This gorgeous spot is lined with cafes, theaters, and luxury stores, and is considered to be the first covered shopping arcade in Belgium (and is also one of the prettiest!). 

It is also the oldest in Europe and is located around the corner from Grand Place.

Galeries Royales Saint Hubert - One day in Brussels Itinerary

Here you will also find upscale stores, trendy champagne outlets, chocolate shops, a cinema, and fine cafes. This prestigious complex is covered by a glass roof with a metal frame inspired by the architecture of the 19th-century palaces.

To make the most of the remaining part of your first day Brussels itinerary, head to the nearest Metro station and take the train to the Schuman stop. 

European Quarter and Autoworld:

Here you will find yourself in the heart of the European Quarter which is home to some iconic landmarks like the European Parliament and the European Commission. 

EU HQ European Quarter Brussels

Next, walk towards the Cinquantenaire and visit Autoworld , to see some of the finest collections of cars anywhere.

Parc du Cinquantenaire & other landmarks:

From the rear part of Autoworld take the Merode metro to reach Parc du Cinquantenaire , located exactly opposite Brussels Park. Parc du Cinquantenaire or Jubelpark is one of the most amazing parks in the city. 

It is a park as well as a historical and cultural site – with museums, monuments, artwork, gardens, etc., and dates back to the reign of King Leopold II. 

If you love city views as we do, we recommend heading to the rooftop of the Cinquantenaire arcade to soak in the views of Brussels. 

Although it will take you more than an afternoon to check off all the structures and museums at the Parc, we suggest picking 1-2 spots only. Important landmarks here include the Art and History Museum, the Great Mosque of Brussels, to name a few. 

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Or just wander the Parc and hang out!

Now if you turn right from the park into the first street you will come upon the Musical Instruments Museum holding the world’s largest collection of musical instruments . 

Nearby is the impressive Palace of Justice, the largest building in Brussels (unfortunately you will find it closed on weekends).

Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis

From rue de la Régence walk towards rue de l’Etuve (a 10-minute walk), where you are sure to find a crowd of people gathered around a figure. This is the famous symbol of Brussels, the Manneken Pis , a sculpture of a nude young boy urinating. 

Manneken Pis - Little boy peeing in a fountain Brussels Itinerary

Legend has it that this boy doused a fire and saved the city from burning down. Very close by, you will also find the Jeanneke Pis , the female version of the urinating boy. This is a lot less famous but is still worth a visit for the sake of curiosity. 

However, we found it quite astounding why the statue of a small boy relieving himself was so popular. The Jeanneke Pis instead was less crowded and more of a novelty.

Brussel’s food scene enjoys a world-class reputation. After a hectic day of sightseeing, you are bound to be hungry! 

Though the city has an amazing choice of restaurants to choose from, our personal favorite area is Rue des Bouchers. 

brussels weekend trip

Restaurants here are a little pricey, but you will find a variety of cuisines, and all are located pretty close to your accommodation. Plus they are a stone’s throw away from the Grand Place – so you can also take a walk down there to see this landmark under the night lights.

If we were to pick one place, we can recommend Chez Leon, where, apart from local Belgian dishes, you can savor the most traditional Brussels Friture in the world with a pint of excellent Leon Beer. 

What’s more, you get a 15% discount on your bill with your Brussels card .

Day 2 of 2 day Brussels itinerary: Mini Europe, Atomium, Comic Strip tour, Mont Des Arts, Chocolate making workshop, Beer tasting tour

After a tiresome first day of sightseeing, we suggest you start with a relaxed next morning homemade breakfast at Woodpecker 47 on rue du Marche aux Poulets, a three-minute walk from the Grand Place.

Try the Eggs Hemingway, latte, and hot chocolate. Everything is delicious here and the helpings are large.

Mini Europe & Atomium

Today you will be visiting some of the important landmarks so try to reach the Heysel metro station by 9:30 am which is the closest station to the star attractions of Mini Europe and the Atomium . 

Pro tip: You can also book a hop on and hop off sightseeing tour to check out various attractions with ease. Book it here.

Mini Europe is a miniature park on the outskirts of the city and has main monuments of 80 different European cities such as Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower. Your visit here will take at least two hours. Here is an entry ticket to Mini Europe

The Atomium in Brussels

The Atomium is situated nearby and houses a 102 metre (334.6 feet) tall sculpture of an Atom and has become an important landmark of the Belgian capital. Here you can climb inside an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times its normal size. 

If you are hard-pressed for time, it is suggested to get by without visiting the interior of the Atomium.

The city of Brussels has been paying special emphasis to comics since the early 90s. It pays tribute to the authors of the Franco-Belgian comics and their characters by depicting them in mind-blowing murals on the walls of the city centre (Pentagon) and Laeken. 

Belgian Comic Strip Center Museum 

A three hour guided walking tour of the Brussels Comic strip route and Art Street will provide a snapshot of the fascinating urban art scene through the lens of a local.

You will explore two of the city’s most iconic stores, Little Nemo and Hors-Serie, selling precious first edition comics and other rare old toys at the comic strip center.

Tours: 3 hour private tour | Comic murals guided tour

Prefer an art museum instead? Head to Horta Museum. This is a house and studio of architect Victor Horta, and the building is stunning, filled with art nouveau stained glass, mosaics & furnishings. 

Alternate Option: Mont Des Arts and Chocolate making workshop

On a sunny day in Brussels, the Mont Des Arts is a great place to relax and watch the world go by. This is an elevated vantage park in the city and has an extremely beautifully manicured public garden. The place is also home to the National Archives and the Royal Library of Belgium.

Mont des Arts Brussels

Located right next door to the Mont Des Arts is another popular attraction, the all-important chocolate shop, and museum (5-minute walk).

Taking part in a 2.5 hour Belgian chocolate making workshop offers the perfect opportunity to crave your chocolate curbs by enjoying some of the finest chocolates the country is famous for. 

In the end, you learn how to become a perfect chocolate art, from scratch, by mastering all the tips to make delicious pralines and mendiant chocolates.

Tours : 2.50 hour chocolate making workshop | 1.50 hour waffle making workshop (located 15 minutes from Mont Des Arts)

Dinner Ideas:

Pamper yourself on your last evening in Brussels by enjoying some early evening jazz and a drink at L’Archiduc. Here you will find the atmosphere elegant and the style of Art Deco. 

Head next to the rue de Flandre area which is home to many restaurants and is a trendy food hub of the city. Try some of the Belgian classics here such as croquettes, aux croquettes, and moules-frites (mussels and chips), the most popular dish of Belgium.

The Dandoy dynasty has been in operation for over 150 years on rue au Beurre where it first blossomed in 1858. The Maison Dandoy is not just about biscuits but a way of life for the people of Brussels. 

Head to their outlet near the Grand Place which is cozy and cute and serves some of the best waffles topped with whipped cream. The only thing which we found weird was that the bathroom shared a window with the kitchen haha!

For beer lovers:

Another option is to embark on a beer tasting tour with a group before bidding adieu to Brussels. Here is a recommended 3-hour Belgian beer tasting tour . 

If you prefer not to take a tour then visit the Delirium Cafe in Delirium Village. Housed in multiple rooms, there are more than 2000 different brands of beer to enjoy. 

Moreover, you will find people flocking here from all corners of the world and it is a great place to make friends as well. Many dismiss it as a tourist trap, but if you are looking for a novelty it is worth the price.

Day Trips from Brussels Belgium: Ways to extend your Brussels 2 day trip

One of the best things about planning a day trip from Brussels is that because of the small size of the country (161sq km), you are not restricted to sights only in Belgium but to several neighboring countries as well. 

Though most of the destinations mentioned below can be accessed by public transport, consider renting four wheels for flexibility and independence. 

Plus day tours are always an option!

Ghent and Bruges

The two top places we would recommend for a day trip from Brussels are Ghent and Bruges . If you have time, they are worth visiting individually, else you can combine them on one visit. 

brussels weekend trip

However, if you are short of time we personally feel that Burges is a better choice.

The fairy tale town of Bruges is known for its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and canals, while Ghent is a University town, also with medieval architecture but not so well preserved.

You can walk around for the day seeing the churches, climb the Belfry tower, and a brewery visit in Bruges. 

Find out how to spend one day in Bruges itinerary

Tour: Day tour to Ghent and Bruges

Another good place to visit in the north is Antwerp. The highlights of this port city are Brabo Fountain and the City Hall. The city is world-famous for its diamond trade and houses hundreds of jewelers in the Diamond District.

Finally don’t leave Antwerp without seeing the eclectically designed Railway station and the high-tech museum, aan de Stroom. (Avoid the areas near the docks and ports as they are hotspots for crime)

There are frequent trains from Brussels to Antwerp, which take about 45 minutes to cover the distance between the two cities.

Tour: Book a day tour to Antwerp from Brussels

Lille (France)

It is easy to hop across the border into France to visit the lovely city of Lille . You can reach it by train in less than forty minutes from Brussels. 

brussels weekend trip

Some of the striking landmarks of Lille are the Opera House and the impressive La Vieille Bourse, a magnificent Renaissance building. 

Then walk through the streets of Vieux Lille to explore the incredible Notre Dame de la Treille Cathedral.

Amsterdam (Netherlands)

As Belgium’s close neighbor is the Netherlands, many visitors use the opportunity to head to Amsterdam on a day tour. The intercity trains take about two hours from Brussels to reach. 

Once there you see the city’s famous canals, the Royal Palace, House of Anne Frank (tickets to be booked ahead of time), and a walk through the Red Light District.

Book : Day tour to Amsterdam | Day tour to Holland and Amsterdam

Luxembourg City (Luxembourg)

It is possible to visit one of the smallest countries in Europe on a day trip from Brussels. 

A full day tour that covers the heart of Luxembourg City like the Arms Square, Place de la Constitution, the UNESCO World Heritage monuments of the Ville Haute, and more.

Book: Tour of Luxembourg City | Combined tour of Luxembourg and Dinant in Belgium

Things to do in Brussels Itinerary 2 days: Sightseeing Map

Is 2 days enough for Brussels Belgium?

Actually, it all depends on what you want to do, but 1 to 2 days in Brussels are enough to explore the Belgium capital. 

If you are visiting to get a feel of the city, then one day in Brussels is enough without visiting the inside of the museums. 

Brussels has a lot of attractions that are away from the center, and there are many experiences (workshop, walks, and jazz) that you can enjoy. 

But it is definitely possible to see a lot the city has to offer in two days. The idea should be to explore the key attractions in all the neighborhoods, starting from the Lower and Upper town before heading to the northern city limits.

Travel Tips for Brussels on a weekend

Here are some quick tips for Brussels,

  • Brussels is located in Belgium, which is a EU member and follows the Schengen agreement (for visa purposes)
  • Euro is the official currency of Belgium. You can use euros (cash) or pay by credit card in various stores, and restaurants. 
  • There are 3 official languages in Belgium – French, Dutch and German. And in Brussels French and Dutch are more common. Most service providers did their best to provide a good experience and also attempted to communicate in English

Read : Interesting facts about Belgium

Budget and safety

The average daily expenditure per day for a trip to Brussels will be about €114, in standard accommodation (twin-share), based on the experience of past travelers. If you stay in a hostel it will cost you between €60-€90 per day.

In general, food cost is the most expensive item in the capital and is highest in the city centre. To limit your expenses, you will have to look for the best deals.

You can find cheap and filling food at the Brasseries or from department stores cafeterias in Galeria Kaufhof for example.

Expect to shell out €15 for a traditional sit-down meal, and splash €30 for a fancy three-course meal with a drink. A pizza costs about €9 and Chinese food/meal around €12. Beer costs €4 and bottled water is €1-2 Euro.

For a quick, wholesome, and inexpensive snack try the famous Belgian fries with mayonnaise. They are served in a large cone for €3 and can be found in all corners of the city. They are super filling and delicious as well.

On a mid-range budget of €150 per day, you can book a nice 4-star property (twin-share), enjoy a couple of drinks, have some meals outside, take the occasional taxi ride and pay for your museum admission. 

brussels weekend trip

When it comes to safety, the Brussels city center is by and large a safe place for tourists.  

We never faced any issues catching the train, or staying out until later. As always, don’t venture to unknown areas at night. In Brussels, serious crime rates are low and if you use common sense, you can easily get by.

For accommodation, stick to the center for a 2 day Brussels trip, and avoid places/hotels in the neighborhoods around Place de Brouckere because of casinos and weird catcallers and Molenbeek which is a purse snatching haven.

Try to masquerade as a local which will make matters substantially easier as you will not make yourself seem like a target for opportunists.

In case you get robbed in Brussels, there is a police station right in front of the Parliament building. Nearly all the policemen speak Dutch, French, and English. The official emergency number is 112, from where you can access all emergency services such as fire, ambulance, and police.

Wondering how long do you need in Brussels? Ideally, 2 days is enough to explore the primary city attractions like the Grand Place, a couple of museums, food and chocolate making workshops, and more.  With 2 days in Brussels, you can also explore places like the Atomium and Mini Europe located in the city’s outskirts. 

Here is a quick Brussels 2 day itinerary, Day 1 of 2 days in Brussels itinerary : Grand Place, Rue des Bouchers, Les Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, European Quarter, Parc, Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis Day 2 of 2 days in Brussels itinerary : Mini Europe, Atomium, Comic Strip tour, Mont Des Arts, Chocolate making workshop, Beer tasting tour

Brussels is a great weekend city break. There is so much to do, and yet you can still see a lot without entering a museum. Grand Place is our absolute favorite – you can hang out there, eat and shop! There are many green spaces in the city of Brussels where you can enjoy a nice picnic on a sunny warm day.  You can go thrift shopping, or wander the comic strip. A workshop (waffle or chocolate making) will delight any couple or a family weekend in Brussels. 

Brussels makes for a great trip. It is the political heart of Europe, and the city is known for chocolates, beer, and waffles to soothing jazz bars and art nouveau buildings. Grand Place is an iconic landmark, so is the Atomium, and you don’t want to skip them! Staying in Brussels will also allow you to explore more of western Europe and Belgium.

Some fun facts about Brussels: 

We are leaving you with some fun facts about Brussels! Enjoy,

  • If you are lucky you can see theThe Manneken Pis dressed up on some fixed dates, four times a year.It is said that his wardrobe has over 900 pieces, some of which can be seen at Garderobe Manneken Pis. The statue on display is a replica made in 1965. The original is housed in the Brussels City Museum.
  • Comic strip books contribute significantly to the culture of Belgium.There is an excellent museum devoted to them on rue des Sables, Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée, housed in a vintage Art Nouveau fabric shop. Here you will find Tin Tin, the famous Belgian comic strip character, Lucky Luke, Gil Jourdan and many other characters.
  • Belgium produces over 2200 beer brands and Brussels over 800.You can actually spend six years in the country without having to sample the same brand of beer twice.
  • Brussels is the only city in the world, other than New York, which has more diplomatic missions (180+). At any point the city hosts 40,000+ diplomats.
  • You should splurge on lunch as many restaurants offer special rates at lunch for the same quality meal at dinner at a much cheaper rate. If you want the best value for your money, consider going all out at lunchtime.
  • Students can avail of special discounts upon presentation of their identity card. This also includes 50% off on entry to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
  • Lastly, Belgium is a constitutional, hereditary, and popular monarchy. The monarch is the head of state. The residence of the Belgian Royal Family is located on the outskirts of Brussels in the Palace of Laeken. The Royal Palace of Brussels, located in the center is the King’s administrative residence only.

Pin: Brussels weekend itinerary

brussels weekend trip

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Thanks again for the inspiration, and I can’t wait to explore Brussels with your guide in hand! Safe travels and keep those amazing stories coming. Cheers!

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11 Best Things To Do In Brussels

Posted on Last updated: 7 March 2024

Categories Belgium

Famous for its waffles, fries and chocolate, we couldn’t wait to cover Brussels in a weekend. So here are our top 11 things to do with 2 days in Brussels.

Table of Contents

1. Grand Place

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

This central square of the city is the natural starting point for most tourists with 2 days in Brussels, as it’s an easy place to visit some of the most memorable landmarks in the capital.

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

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

Grand Place is also considered as one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, so is a definite must see on your Brussels in a weekend tour.

Grand Place Brussels Town Hall Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

2. Manneken Pis

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

Translated from Flemish to ‘peeing boy’, Manneken Pis is a small bronze sculpture of a naked boy urinating into a fountain.

There are many tales to be told about Manneken Pis. Although the majority refer to that fact that he helped save the city of Brussels during war times by peeing on gunpowder fuses or even peeing on the enemies themselves.

Either way, he can now be seen on memorabilia all over the city and is recognised as one of Brussels’ most popular landmarks!

Make sure chuck him into your Brussels itinerary !

Manneken Pis Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

3. Eat Local

Along the way whilst looking for things to do in Brussels you’re going to need feeding!

Well Belgium, and Brussels in particular, is known for its fabulous naughty food. From waffles, to chocolate and fries we tried it all!

A few of our favourite spots we have to mention are:

Maison Dandoy

For the most incredible waffles we have ever tasted!

Pistolet Original

For an easy snack in the form of some traditional Belgian buns.

Frit Flagey

For arguable the best fries in the city!

There also some highly rated tours such as the  Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour , or the  2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience . 

‘Brussels in a weekend’ could easily be turned into ‘Brussels in a month’ with all it’s delicious food selections. As for the Belgian chocolate – we’ll move onto that soon.

Pistolet Original Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

4. Mont Des Arts

The Mont Des Arts is an easy way to kill some free time on your 2 days in Brussels or alternatively, an awesome spot for sunset!

We headed down on our final evening, to take a look at the viewpoint from the garden on the hill. A garden that overlooks some of those famous Brussels landmarks.

There were dog walkers, as well as buskers, and it just had a really pleasant vibe to it!

Mont Des Arts should definitely be included when planning Brussels in a weekend.

Mont Des Arts Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

5. Chocolate Workshop

Located literally next door to the Mont Des Arts we found one of the highlights of our trip. The all important chocolate stop!

We were lucky enough to take part in a chocolate making workshop with the well known Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier .

With plenty of chocolate tours and workshops available on your 2 days in Brussels itinerary, here are a few of the most popular:

2.5-Hour Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop

Brussels Chocolate Tasting Tour

Brussels: Chocolate Workshop and Guided Walking Tour

It was an ideal way to kick that chocolate craving to the curb, and enjoy some of the highest quality chocolate in Belgium.

Not only was Laurent a fantastic host, but he was one hell of a character. Both the chocolate making experience, and of course the tasting, are something you’ll never forget if chocolate is your kind of thing.

Also, if it is your kind of thing, and you get the chance to visit Bruges, just an hour and a half drive from Brussels, you would definitely love the Choc Story Chocolate Museum . This was up there as one of the best things to do in Bruges for us.

Laurent Gerbaud Chocolate Workshop Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

6. Marolles Flea Market

The only market in the world to open 7 days a week, 365 days a year!

If you fancy something a little different, yet still a typical Brussels in a weekend experience, then why not head to Marolles Flea Market early one morning.

Unfortunately, we visited when it was raining – though there were still plenty of locals lined out showcasing their antiques and selling off old goods at cheap prices.

The market is open daily 6am – 2pm.

Marolles Flea Market Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

7. Tram Experience

Besides the naughty snacks of Brussels, there are also plenty of high quality restaurants to choose from.

So we decided to switch it up on one of our 2 days in Brussels, by taking a fine dining experience on a tram!

One of the most entertaining evenings we had during our Europe trip, was riding through Brussels on the Tram Experience. Enjoying a seasonal menu designed by some of the city’s top chefs along the way.

It was a night to remember as we took a two hour journey through the lit-up capital all whilst tucking into a five course meal accompanied by wine and champagne.

It’s definitely something we’d recommend for a special occasion, or something for food fanatics to add to your Brussels in a weekend itinerary.

Tram Experience Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

8. Cinquantenaire

The Parc du Cinquantenaire is a huge 19th century city park. Consisting of floral gardens, fountains and a military museum, it’s a must visit when covering Brussels in a weekend.

An easy walk from either Schuman or Merode station, the park is a beautiful place for history lovers or photographers alike.

Built to commemorate fifty years of Belgian independence, the name means ‘Park of the fiftieth anniversary’ and is located close to the European Quarter.

Parc du Cinquantenaire Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

9. The Atomium

How could we not include the most famous atom in the world on our 2 days in Brussels itinerary!

You will need a Brussels Atomium Admission Ticket to visit The Atomium . They are cheap enough at £14 per adult, and are easy enough to be book in advance.

From the centre of town we jumped in a taxi to make sure we had plenty of time at the Atomium.

Possibly the most recognised landmark in Brussels, this silver coloured collection of spheres represents a single unit of iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.

Originally built in 1958 as part of Brussels World’s Fair (Expo 58), we took a tour of the inside as it celebrated its 60th birthday and it’s definitely a bucket list item if heading to the capital.

Atomium Brussels One Day In Brussels Itinerary

10. Botanical Garden

The perfect place for a spot of lunch!

We grabbed a sandwich and headed over to the Botanical Garden to soak up the last bits of Autumn sunshine, and relax in the urban style flower park.

If you’re looking to escape the city for a little while then this is a beautiful spot.

Influenced by many European countries, it makes for a great break within the business district.

Botanical Garden Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

11. MIMA Museum

When we were told about a former brewery that’s been turned into an exhibition of contemporary art, we had to visit!

The MIMA Museum , or the ‘Millennium Iconoclast Museum of Art’, presents the most significant art of its time, and explores a history of culture. Celebrating some of the largest movements of the past 100 years.

Through historic posters and modern artwork, the MIMA is an interesting visit that we’d definitely recommend adding to your Brussels in a weekend itinerary.

MIMA Museum Brussels Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

Where To Stay In Brussels

Hotel Metropole

This Art Deco hotel dating from 1895 is situated in the historical centre of Brussels, a 10-minute walk from Grand-Place and Brussels Central Station . 

The marble staircases in the lobby lead up to the rooms, which include a TV with internet access.

The Hotel Metropole also offers 24-hour room service. 

The breakfast room has the same layout and design as the Akshardham Temple in Delhi, India.

There is also Cafe Metropole where you can enjoy a premium brasserie-style cuisine in Brussels typical tradition. Guests at Hotel Metropole benefit from 6 free minibar drinks.

Vintage Hotel

Offering free WiFi throughout the property, this hotel has rooms with 70s-style décor and flat-screen cable TV.

It includes a stylish boutique wine bar and a spacious courtyard terrace. Vintage Hotel Brussels is also only 50 yards from the fashionable Avenue Louise shopping area. 

Each of the rooms at Vintage Hotel Brussels includes work desk, a modern bathroom and an iHome docking station with music player, radio and alarm functions.

Guests can make use of the free WiFi. A buffet breakfast featuring fresh fruit, coffee and pastries is available daily.

Train Cabin Hostel

Located on a roof, Train cabin Hostel offers an unique concept in Brussels.

The accommodation is in an actual train sleeper cabin, used on the Belgian Railways. 

The Cabin has an exterior shared bathroom fitted with a shower.

The unit comes without bedding, therefore guests bring their own sleeping bag.

For more places to stay in Brussels, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use  Skyscanner  to find a cheap flight. 

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use  Booking.com  to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile. 

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Trip sponsored by Visit Brussels @visitbrussels www.visit.brussels

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11 Best Things To Do In Brussels In A Weekend

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Wanderlustingk

Your guide for a perfect weekend in Brussels

January 2, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

If you’re looking for a weekend full of beauty, beer, and chocolate, you’re in the right place. I include highlights of Brussels that can be seen over a weekend in Brussels based on my month in Brussels and numerous other trips to Brussels. Somehow, I’ve kept returning to Brussels and I keep finding more things to do in Brussels each successive time. This itinerary is mostly based on my recent weekend in Brussels with friends eating and drinking as much as possible.

This itinerary is relaxed as Brussels is quite walkable and has a good metro system. ( Note: I’ve left out the Atomium as I was left underwhelmed by it although it’s certainly a recent piece of architecture. It’s a bit pricey to go inside and out of the way. )

Grand Place

  • Waffles and Frites

Manneken Pis

  • Comic Murals of Brussels
  • Chocolate Tasting
  • Lots of Belgian beer
  • Thrift & Neighborhood markets
  • 0.1 Where to stay in Brussels
  • 1.1 Coffee and a light breakfast
  • 1.2 Galeries Royales Saint Hubert / Chocolate tasting part I
  • 1.3 Grand Place
  • 1.4 Manneken Pis
  • 1.5 Secondhand books
  • 1.6 Église Saint Nicolas
  • 1.7 Waffles
  • 1.8 Comic walls of Brussels
  • 1.9 Marché aux Poissons / Saint Catherine
  • 1.10 Craft beer or Cocktails
  • 2.1 Breakfast at the market in Saint Gilles
  • 2.2 Halle Gate
  • 2.3 Browse secondhand goods at the Marolles Flea Market
  • 2.4 Galerie Bortier
  • 2.5 Park Mont de Artes
  • 2.6 Royal Palace/Parc de Bruxelles
  • 2.7 A beer of course.
  • 3 Have you spent a weekend in Brussels?

Where to stay in Brussels

I’ve stayed at several hotels and hostels in Brussels during my various trips. For those on a budget, Sleep Well is a steal with clean, basic rooms and a good location. I really loved staying in the heart of the trendy Ixelles neighborhood at the basic yet affordable Hotel Neufchatel as it made it easy to find great food and cafes at night. The Dominican  is a nice option for anyone seeking an affordable 4* boutique hotel in a centrally located area just around the corner from the Royal Galleries.

Your guide to a perfect weekend in Brussels, including the best things to do in Brussels in two days.  Includes a complete itinerary for Brussels with food and drink (Belgian beer) recommendations and tips for getting off the beaten path! #belgium #brussels #europe #travel #wanderlust

Saturday in Brussels

Belgians know how to eat. That is without question and every trip to Brussels involves some weight gain for me. I’m a chocoholic, so I always stop off at a number of chocolatiers in Brussels.

Coffee and a light breakfast

brussels weekend trip

A good start to the day is important, especially if you’re coming off a train from elsewhere. I generally take the train into Bruxelles Centraal given the choice although it’s very easy to transfer from Bruxelles Nord. Given the choice, I often head to Aksum for a good cup of coffee.

Galeries Royales Saint Hubert / Chocolate tasting part I

Interior of the Royal Galleries in Brussels, one of the highlights of visiting Brussels over a weekend. #travel #brussels #Belgium

The Royal Galleries of Brussels is a stunning covered shopping arcade in the centre of Brussels. This beautiful gallery holds some of the best chocolatiers in the world (along with the most average). I recommend stopping off at Mary, Neuhaus, and Tropismes (for books). You can click for my self-guided chocolate tour of Brussels.

Beautiful buildings of Grand Place in Brussels.  This sight is one of the highlights of Brussels possible over a weekend! #travel #brussels  #bruxelles #belgium

How can you miss Grand Place ? Grand Place is Brussel’s right to fame and it is absolutely stunning. The square is certainly crowded, but the earlier you’re here, the better. Many of the buildings were built to house the powerful guilds who once controlled commerce in Brussels although the town hall, which dates back to the medieval period, is the most iconic buildings of Grand Place (known as Grote Markt in Flemish).

The famous statue, Manneken Pis, is a landmark of Brussels that you can't miss during your weekend in Brussels. #travel #brussels #bruxelles #belgium

One of the most frustrating things about Brussels that many don’t tell you is that Manneken Pis is often in a costume and a bit smaller than you might imagine. The statue epitomizes Belgian sense of humor and it’s often dressed up in elaborate costumes. It’s remarkably more difficult to get a photo without a costume than you might realize. 😉

Secondhand books

My friend Lerissa told me about this bookshop (Rue du Midi 89), which is one of her favorite bookstores in Brussels! Many Belgian bookshops have a good selection of Flemish or French books, however their English selection is more limited. This cozy bookstore has a fantastic selection of English langauge books for a great price.

Église Saint Nicolas

The church of Saint Nicholas is one of the oldest churches in Brussels. It dates back to the 12th century although it has been rebuilt several times. It’s absolutely beautiful inside and free to enter, so don’t be afraid to take a peek!

Delicious Brussels-style waffle.  While in Brussels, you'll want to try both the Liege style as well as the Brussels-style waffle! #waffles #brussels #bruxelles #belgium #travel #food

You can tell that it’s a Brussels waffle by its rectangular shape and lightness as Liège waffles tend to be more circular and sweeter. You’ll find numerous places to get Brussels style waffles although Maison Dandoy came the most recommended to me. I’d also recommend stopping off to try some of Brussels’ best chocolate .

Comic walls of Brussels

Brussels lit up at night with a comic street art mural.  As you explore Brussels over a weekend, you'll find a lot of beautiful murals showing off Belgium's most famous comics! #travel #brussels #bruxelles #belgium #europe #streetart

All around the city, you’ll find gorgeous comic murals showing off Belgium’s amazing legacy of comic art. (The TinTin museum is a little outside of Brussels!) My favorite piece sat close to Rue du Marché au Charbon 41 . This mural was one of the first murals painted in Brussels. You’ll find many more as you walk around Brussels over a weekend.

Marché aux Poissons / Saint Catherine

One of my favorite calmer areas (as recommended by my friend who lived in Brussels) is Saint Catherine. Along Quai aux Briques, you’ll find a lot of charming cafes and a nice place to sit as people walk by. You might not be so hungry after the chocolate, however, this is a great area to slow down as it’s away from the crowds in Centre.

You’ll find a lot of options for all budgets although we ended up getting gourmet burgers. Come early and stop by Nordzee for reasonably fish Belgian-style. (They close at 6pm , so get here earlier if you’re looking for a snack.)

Craft beer or Cocktails

Although Belgium is famous for its abbey beer , there’s also great craft beer in Brussels too! Brussels Beer Project makes fantastic experimental beer that can be found at their namesake bar. You’ll find other cafes serving up great cocktails in this area, including vintage-style drinks at L’Archiduc or the innovative bar next door ( Cobra ).

Sunday in Brussels

Belgium sometimes feels a bit sleepy sometimes with supermarkets outside of the city center closing down for the entirety of Sunday. Luckily, there’s plenty to see in the residential neighborhoods , which are full of charm. The second part of this tw o- day itinerary for Brussels focuses on showing you the charm and beauty of Brussels away from the centre.

Breakfast at the market in Saint Gilles

Saint Gilles is known as a village within Brussels. This charming neighborhood is full of art deco architecture and it hosts a lovely market. On Sunday, you’ll want to come to Market Parvis Saint-Gilles  armed with a few euros to pick up breakfast and browse the various goods here.

Halle Gate was part of the old city wall in Brussels.  This beautiful park is a must-see during a weekend in Brussels. #travel #brussels #bruxelles

This elaborate port once stood as part of the city gate around the city of Brussels. It dates back to 1381 and it’s incredibly impressive to admire as you walk through the picturesque park around it. For a few euros, you can enter the port to learn about the history of Brussels as well as weapons, otherwise just walk by and enjoy the view!

Browse secondhand goods at the Marolles Flea Market

Marolles Flea Market, one of the best weekend markets in Brussels that you'll want to visit during a weekend in Brussels! #travel #brussels #belgium #bruxelles

I always love a good flea market. I happened upon the Marolles Flea Market , which occurs every Sunday. You’ll find a bit of everything here from used clothes to poor taxidermies to antique items. If you’re an antique lover, be sure to bring cash with you as I was wishing that I could buy some of the oddities on sale here…

Galerie Bortier

261

Although the Royal Galleries are super famous, be sure to stop off at Galerie Bortier, which is full of bookshops and art shops. It’s just such a beautiful place to take a moment to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and shop.

Park Mont de Artes

Views from Mont Des Artes, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Belgium during a weekend! #travel #belgium #brussels #bruxelles

For the most iconic view of Brussels, head to Park Mont des Arts for stunning views from the Mountain of Art. This lovely park is surrounded by gorgeous buildings in every direction and you’ll be glad that you headed to the top of the stairs!

Royal Palace/Parc de Bruxelles

From here, head towards the Royal Palace and Brussels Park. This park was once used for hunting. Today, it’s open to the public to enjoy. From Place des Palais, you can admire this working palace that is open to the public during the summers.

A beer of course.

A beer at A La Mort Subtite, one of the classic places to have a beer in Brussels.  This charming cafe in Brussels has a gorgeous interior! #travel #beer #brussels #belgium

With limited time, decisions must be made. Before you leave, consider stopping for a drink at one of these classic Brussels bars: Delirium Café , A la mort Subite , or Au Bon Vieux Temps. (If you’re ambitious, try going to all three!)

Delirium Café  is the most famous and most expensive of these three. This bar is a favorite of tourists, but it surprised me with its nice atmosphere and a good selection of beer. There’s ample seating and it’s worth the visit if you’re keen to have a beer here.

A La Mort Subite has a stunning interior dating back to 1928. I was worried it would be too touristy, but we had a blast having beers here although you’ll pay for the pleasure. Their housemade beer went over well with my friend who isn’t very into beer and I loved their peach- flavored beer. You might need to wait for a table.

Lastly, I had to include Au Bon Vieux Temps . This old cafe is hidden down an alleyway that is very easy to miss, but it’s full of charm. I loved the quiet of the cafe as well as its charm that will transport you back to another era.

Have you spent a weekend in Brussels?

  • Four days in Belgium
  • A self-guided chocolate tour of Brussels
  • Durbuy: the most beautiful day trip from Wallonia
  • A beautifu abandoned abbey outside of Brussels
  • Cities in Wallonia, Belgium to visit
  • Your one day guide to Antwerp

brussels weekend trip

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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brussels weekend trip

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

Spending a weekend in Brussels can be awesome – if you have a little help. Without guidance, Brussels can seem like a boring city where tourist traps reign and trudging around the one square kilometer around the Grand Place is the highlight of your Brussels Itinerary.  Let’s delve into the delights that multicultural Brussels has to offer

While the Grand Place in Brussels Belgium is worth visiting, the city has so many more interesting quartiers (neighborhoods) to discover: Art Nouveau mansions, local restaurants & bars, curious markets and street art galore.  This guide will take you to the local & tourist highlights. Perhaps this is not your first weekend trip to Brussels and you are looking to get a more intimate knowledge of the city, try checking out the hidden gems of Brussels , or get adventurous and embark on a day trip from Brussels .

This guide contains a good mixture of both general and local knowledge. As I live in Brussels, and spend my weekend exploring this beautiful city, it is such a pleasure to (virtually) show you around and hope you fall in love with Brussels, just as I did.

TIP| If you really want to try something else and get a completely different feel of both the city and the country of Belgium, I can highly recommend going castle hunting around Brussels .

palermo highlights - streetfood in Palermo

Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

2 days in Brussels Guide

Why 2 Days in Brussels Is Worth It

READ | Brussels vs Bruges For a City Trip || Is Brussels Worth Visiting

Most of the main tourist attractions in Brussels are within walking distance from each other, hotels are more affordable than many other Western European cities, the city has tons of awesome museums and historical sites to visit and, last but certainly not least, Brussels has a thriving bar and restaurant scene.

For some reason, Brussels has completely fallen off the tourist radar. I have had many friends ask my why they should visit the city. The truth of the matter is there are plenty of things to see in Brussels in 2 days, you just need to know where to find them. Hey, that’s where I come in! Spend one day exploring the highlights – Grand Place, Manneken Piss, The Royal Galleries, La Bourse and perhaps the Magritte Museum. Stroll through the streets munching on fine Belgian chocolate or, a hot waffle, and end the day at Place Sainte Catherine with a nice cold beer.

On day two you can explore the thriving Art Nouveau scene, head to the oldest neighborhood in Brussels, the Marolles for a spot of vintage shopping, clamber up the Atomium or learn about the importance of comic books for us Belgians. Bring a pair of very comfortable walking shoes and invest in the Brussels Card , which includes access to public transportation and 49 museums. I would also ensure you bring loose-fitting clothing because the omnipresence of Belgian beer and Belgian chocolates will have you grazing throughout the entire weekend.

Christmas in Brussels

Two Days in Brussels Planning Guide

TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS

  • Beautiful Design B&B: Le Berger
  • Central Location: Warwick Hotel
  • Great for going out at night: Moxy Hotel
  • Sustainable Choice: B&B Brussels Louise

HIGHLY RATED TOURS

  • Reco: Hungry Mary Beer & Chocolate tour
  • Belgian Beer, Waffles & Whisky Tour
  • If it rains: Chocolate Workshop
  • Go Local: Private Local Walking Tour

2-Day Brussels Itinerary

DAY ONE: Grand Place, Mont des Arts, Magritte Museum, Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, Manneken & Jeanneke Pis, Food tour (organized of self-guided), La Bourse & Saint Catherine neighborhood

DAY TWO: Art Nouveau House, Comic Book Museum or Comic Strip Walk, Atomium, Marolles (Sunday Morning), Bois de la Cambre

BEST BARS IN TOWN: Brussels Beer Project, Moeder Lambic, Bar des Amis

MUST VISIT RESTAURANTS : Manneken Pis Café (Fusion), Strofilia (Greek), Choux de Bruxelles (Belgian)

14 Things to Do During a Weekend in Brussels

Time to get to the nitty-gritty of planning out the perfect 48 hours in Brussels. Curious to see where all the mentioned places are located? Scroll down to the bottom of this article and check out the interactive Google Map.

BRUSSELS IN SPRING : Make sure to check out the famous bluebell forest near Brussels in Hallerbos. BRUSSELS IN WINTER: Explore the Brussels Christmas market like a local

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

Brussels Itinerary Day One – The Historical Centre

If you only have a very short weekend in Brussels, or perhaps only one day in Brussels you might want to stick to the center of town to make sure you cover the basics. Fret not, one day in the city is enough to get a glimpse of the splendors she has to offer.

A weekend in Brussels at the Grand Place Brussel

1. EXPLORE THE GRAND PLACE

The Grand Place in Brussels is the most opulent main square in all of Europe. It takes my breath away, even after having walked across its little cobblestones thousands of times. Most travelers plant themselves in the middle and start snapping away, before hurrying to the next attractions.

What if I told you, you could easily spend half a day exploring the various 18th-century UNESCO-Classified buildings dotted around the Grand Place, learning about the history of the city? These ornate golden mansions were once guild houses, remnants of which can still be seen by the figurines adorning the rooves.

The two largest buildings on the Grand Place are respectively the Gothic Brussels City Town Hall ( guided tours are available ) and the larger-than-life neo-Gothic King’s Building, nowadays home to the Brussels City Museum (included in the Brussels Card ). WHAT TO DO ON THE GRAND PLACE:  Brussels Beer Museum, Brussels City Museum, Climb the spire of the Brussels City Town Hall.

BEST VIEWS : First floor of Café La Brouette or Restaurant Le Roy d’Espagne

TOURS | There are a lot of legends surrounding the Grand Place and intricated details including an architectural mistake often overlooked. Learn about all of the above via guided walking tour

Best views in Brussels for 2 days

2. FIND THE BEST VIEWPOINT IN BRUSSELS

Time to explore  Mont des Arts . Chances are high that you were browsing the internet to prepare for your weekend in Brussels this image popped up. This viewpoint is wonderful for sunset! In summer a small pop-up bar opens up at the top of the stairs, and locals flock here to catch the last rays of sun. WHAT TO SEE: The square is lined with the Royal Library of Belgium , the National Archives , a meeting center , and Plein Public (this venue is pretty good for an aperitif in the evening). WHAT TO DO NEARBY: Within walking distance, you will find The Bozar  – the center of fine arts in Brussels, which has a very cool rooftop bar (open June to September) and a snazzy 2-star Michelin restaurant. Alternatively, head to the MIM (Musical Instruments Museum) housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building. The museum is filled from top to bottom with various musical instruments. It has a great rooftop bar which serves brunch over the weekends. The bar is currently under renovation.

AN ADDITIONAL VIEWPOINT: I recently discovered the Warwick Grand Place Hotel and its rooftop bar which quite literally looks over the Grand Place. The bar is open from 5 pm to 11:30 pm and is accessible to anyone.

Two days in Brussels Itinerary, Museums

3. VISIT ONE OF THE MANY BRUSSELS MUSEUMS

One thing Brussels does really well is interactive museums. If it happens to rain on your weekend in Brussels, you can rest assured there are enough museums to keep you entertained. I will spare you an extensive list and instead share a few of my favorites.

MAGRITTE MUSEUM : The museum was recently completely renovated. It contains the largest collection of paintings by the Belgian Surrealist René Magritte.

BRUSSELS CITY MUSEUM : Explains the history of the city and houses the original Manneken Pis. It is located on the Grand Place and has some spectacular views.

BELGIAN BEER WORLD: Located in the recently renovated La Bourse, this is an interactive museum about beer in Belgium. My favorite part is their rooftop terrace where you do the beer tasting.

COMIC BOOK MUSEUM: Brussels has a long history of comic books. You might be familiar with the Smurfs or TinTin. Yep, these little guys were created by the hands of Belgian artists. The Comic Book Museum is informative and happens to be housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building.

MONEY SAVER | If you are planning on visiting multiple museums, I highly recommend investing in the Brussels Card as tickets oftentimes start at €10/person. All of the above are included in the card.

saint-hubert-royal-galleries-brussels

4. DELVE INTO THE ROYAL GALLERY OF SAINT HUBERT

No Brussels weekend itinerary is complete without visiting the magnificent Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. Opened in 1847 and one of the first covered shopping streets in the world. The galleries are comprised of three arcades:   King’s Gallery , the  Queen’s Gallery and the  Princes’ Gallery .

Aside from eating your weight in chocolate and filling your memory cards with hundreds of pictures, there are actually quite a few additional things to do in the arcades. TROPISMES LIBRARY: Nestled in the Princes’ Gallery lies the prettiest bookstore in Brussels. This beautiful hidden nook was a ballroom and then a famous Jazz Bar in a former life.

GALLERIES CINEMAS: The Queen’s Gallery houses a little cinema that dates back to 1939 and is still playing a select number of niche films. Check out what is playing .

MAISON DANDOY : At the beginning of the Queen’s Gallery you will find a large Maison Dandoy, serving one of the best hot chocolates in Brussels.

ROYAL THEATER: The galleries have their very own theater (Théâtre Royal des Galeries), the theater was painted by none other then famous Surrealist painter Renée Magritte. Find out what’s playing online.

CHOCOLATE STORES: There are plenty of chocolate stores inside: Neuhaus (Queen’s Gallery), Pierre Marcolini (Queen’s Gallery), and Mary’s Chocolate (Queen’s Gallery) have a good selection of pralines.

To see Brussels

5. FIND MANNEKEN PIS AND HIS FRIENDS

Manneken pis.

Time to tick off a bucket list item from your Brussels itinerary. Checking out the city’s most renowned, albeit deceptively small, landmark. A mere 5-minute stroll from the Grand Place leads you to the iconic Manneken Pis, also known as Little Julien. While you could easily walk by the statue itself, the perpetual throng of tourists surrounding him will give his location away.

HISTORICAL ROOTS : The origins of Little Julien are steeped in legend, with one prevalent theory suggesting homage to the city’s tanneries from the Middle Ages. In those bygone days, the urine of children was utilized in leather processing—a peculiar tidbit to regale your companions with.

COSTUME GALORE : Little Julien frequently undergoes wardrobe changes, often adorning traditional attire to commemorate national holidays or special occasions like the feast of Saint Nicolas. Witness the whimsical array of his 1000 costumes at the dedicated Garderobe Manneken Pis nearby.

Jeanneke Pis

Less well-known, but equally worth squeezing into your Brussels 2-day itinerary is the statue of a little girl peeing (Jeanneke-Pis). Jeanne is “doing her business” just a mere 50 meters from the most famous bar in Brussels: The Delirium Café. It boasts over 1000 beers on the menu, many of which can be tasted by ordering a beer float. Truth be told, as a local, I do think we have better more authentic bars to try (scroll down for recommendations).

Zinneke Pis

Yep, you are reading this right: There is a third peeing statue. The little bronze statue of Het Zinneke (Brussels slang for “the mut”) was created in 1998. The small peeing dog can be found on the intersection of Rue des Chartreux/Kartuizersstraat and the Rue du Vieux-Marché-aux-Grains/Oude Graanmarkt. Right opposite a really nice black and white graffiti mural.

Waffles in Brussels

6. TAKE A FOOD TOUR AND DELVE INTO BELGIAN CHOCOLATE, WAFFLES & BEER

When people ask me what to do in Brussels when it rains, my standard answer is usually: Eat and drink, it’s weatherproof! Sadly there are a lot of tastefully decorated tourist traps in around the historical center which have given Brussels a bad rep.

I recently tried the Hungry Mary’s Beer and Chocolate tour on, yet another, rainy Sunday. It was such a fun experience and, even as a local, we explored plenty of places I had never been to before! It was fun, good value/money and a good way to learn about the city while discovering the best chocolatiers.

Best Food & Beer Tours in Brussels

  • PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION: Hungry Mary’s Beer and Chocolate tour
  • TOP RATED BEER TOUR: Local Belgian Beer Tasting
  • TOP RATED CHOCOLATE WORKSHOP: Brussels Chocolate Tasting & Workshop
  • TOP RATED WAFFLE/CHOCOLATE/BEER TASTING: Culinary Walking Tour

Best chocolate in Brussels

If you want to explore the various chocolate shops in Brussels yourself instead of opt for a tour I would recommend heading to Pierre Marcolini, BS40 , Neuhaus and Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier . As a local I would caution you against purchasing anything at Leonidas or La Belgique Gourmande as it’s not locally made anymore.

Best waffles in Brussels

When in Brussels make sure to ask for a Brussels waffle (pictured above) as they are the local specialty. Veer away from the waffles topped with whipped cream and brightly colored pieces of fruit. For a proper waffle head over to Maison Dandoy or if you want the vegan version try VeganWaf .

Areas to stay in Brussels

7. TRY A LOCAL BEER AT THE BRUSSELS STOCK EXCHANGE

It’s finally time to add a splash of beer to your Brussels 2-day itinerary. Head in the direction of Boulevard Anspach. This long boulevard was pedestrianized a few years back and has truly flourished. At the center of it lies the former Brussels Stock Exchange – a 19th-century Neoclassical monolith.

I always loved the building and was super excited when they announced it was going to be renovated. In true Brussels style, the renovation took a lot longer than expected, but when they first reopened in 2023 all grumblings about a delayed timeline were soon forgotten. The building is spectacular and houses a variety of different spaces. You do not need to pay to get inside.

BELGIAN BEER WORLD: This museum is dedicated to the Belgian beer culture and offers visitors a “sensory experience” around beer. It’s fun to learn about the history of different beers and best of all the ticket ( buy them in advance ) includes a beer tasting on the rooftop bar.

ROOFTOP BAR: During the opening hours of the museum, the rooftop bar can only be visited if you have purchased a ticket for the Belgian Beer World museum. Between 6 pm and 10.30 pm, however, the rooftop bar is open to everyone. Accessible via elevator at the side entrance of the stock exchange.

Brussels Belgium

8. EXPLORE THE SAINT CATHERINE NEIGHBORHOOD

End the first day of your weekend trip to Brussels in the Saint Catherine neighborhood. On the way over stop at the Halle St. Gerry for a drink at one of the lively bars (I love Zebra!).

Shop Belgian Brands

If you happen to arrive before 06.00 pm walk over to the Dansaert Straat which is home to a myriad of Belgian and international designer stores peddling everything from clothing to high-end furniture.

Stroll down the Vlamingenstraat (Rue de Flandres)

In this street you will find bartenders and shopkeepers conversing in Dutch amongst themselves. This part of town is a little enclave carved out by the Flemish community in Brussels. The street itself has a host of eateries like Chicago Cafe (great for brunch ), and the super trendy Nightshop (reservations needed).

Check out Saint Catherine Square

The square Sainte Catherine and the next door fishmarket are popular locations for locals to spend a free evening. During the summer it is lined with outdoor terraces and lounging youngsters catching up. Pop into Bar des Amis, an age-old institution amongst the locals and stretch your dancing legs in the bar/club   Madame Moustache.

Brussels Itinerary Day Two

This second day of your weekend in Brussels will delve deeper into Brussels. Veer away from the historic center of Brussels (beautiful, yet admittedly very touristy) and venture out into the commune of Saint Gilles, Ixelles and the Marolles.

Brunch in Brussels

9. INDULGE IN A LONG BRUNCH

READ | Best Brunch Spots in Brussels

Aside from the fabulous Grand Place and the beautiful Art Nouveau, there is one other highlight the city has to offer. The art of brunch is one we take very seriously. Skip your hotel breakfast and instead do as the locals do and settle into one of the hip brunch spots that keep popping up.

KAFEI: The first Asian coffee shop in Brussels. The ideal brunch place if you like your Matcha Latté, smoothie bowls and really fluffy pancakes (the best in the city, trust me).

LES FILLES : Locally sourced, bio ingredients served in a cozy setting. Food is served as a sort of buffet (nothing tacky, just a small assortment of homemade food is homey casseroles). Menu is seasonal.

POIS CHICHE : I love this place! It serves Middle Eastern dishes that are divine and has an eco-conscious mindset e.g. no plastic, farm-to-table ingredients, and no food waste.

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

10. VISIT ONE OF THE ART NOUVEAU HOUSES

A lesser-known fact about Brussels is that it was the birthplace of the Art Nouveau architectural movement you could say it is the capital of Art Nouveau. I always encourage friends and family to visit one of the Art Nouveau houses on their weekend trip to Brussels.

VICTOR HORTA MUSEUM: The home and atelier of the founding father of the Belgian Art Nouveau Movement, Victor Horta. For years this was the only Art Nouveau house that was open to the public. You will need to book tickets in advance as they sell out very fast- Closed on Monday.

MAISON HANNON : Renovated in 2023, and just recently opened to the public. Maison Hannon is tiny but boy does it pack a punch. The beautifully restored mural on the winding staircase is unrivaled in Brussels- Closed on Monday.

HOTEL SOLVAY : Privately owned and only open two days a week. If you love ornate stained glass and opulent Art Nouveau furniture make sure to book a visit to Hotel Solvay – Closed on Sunday

INSIDER TIP | If you are a fan of architecture look into the  free Art Nouveau walking tour  which starts every Saturday at 10.00 from the Grand Place and takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, you can opt to stay in an Art Nouveau B&B in Brussels .

MORE TOUR OPTIONS: If you are interested in Art Nouveau tours you can take a tour for around $35. Run by knowledgeable locals who can show you plenty of spots that might otherwise be a bit more tricky to find. Check prices .

Where should I stay in Brussels

11. LEARN ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF COMICS FOR BELGIANS

Brussels has a long history of comic books and comic book figures. You might be familiar with the Smurfs, TinTin and his trusty sidekick Snowy and the crazy adventures of Marsupilami. I grew up watching/reading all of them and they are an integral part of Belgian culture. There are three different ways to learn about the Belgian comics.

1. Visit the Comic Book Museum

This museum has been around for over 30 years and showcases a variety of different comics & the famous Belgian cartoonists behind them. It happens to be housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building and has a cozy on-site café that serves Belgian beers.

2. Walk the Comic Strip Walk

Walking around the historical center of Brussels, its hard not to see the large murals that adorn many of the city walls. Many of the murals feature TinTin or snippets from one of his adventures. They were commissioned by the city many years ago and have managed to stay pretty intact. Pick up a €2.5 brochure with a map at the Visit Brussels Tourist office.

3. Take a dedicated Comic Strip & Brussels Street Art walking tour

Comic Strip & Street Art private walking tour with a local : Skip the brochure at the tourist office and get a local guide to show you the coolest comic strip murals as well as some much lesser-known street art.

Brussels Atomium

12. HEAD OUT TO THE ATOMIUM

The Atomium was constructed for the 1958 World Expo to represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. The building stands 102 meters tall and consists of nine interconnected spheres that contain exhibition spaces, a restaurant, and an observation deck.

I am going to be very honest, I never really understood the hype. Aside from the colorful lights on the inside and the great views – providing the weather is good – there is not a whole lot to experience. Add to that there is nothing around the Atomium that you could visit, aside perhaps from Mini Europe which is great if you are visiting Brussels with kids.

HOW TO GET THERE : Take metro line 6 in the direction of Roi Baudouin and get off at the stop Heysel . TICKETS: It tends to get pretty busy, so it is worth purchase your tickets online to skip the line.

things to do in Brussels in one day

13. DIVE INTO THE OLDEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN BRUSSELS – THE MAROLLES

The lively Marolles district was traditionally a working-class neighborhood, these days it is a haven for second-hand stores covering everything from clothing to designer furniture. My absolute favorite thing to do on a Sunday in Brussels is to kick my butt out of bed early and browse the flea market that takes place every Sunday on the central square in the Marolles, Jeu de Balle or Vossenplein market. Purchases are subject to haggling and can only be paid in cash.

The various streets around the Jeu de Balle are lined with plenty of little second-hand stores that open at 11.00 on Sunday. Looking for a place to grab some brunch in the neighborhood? Pop into L’Eau Chaude, Atelier en Ville or L’Aubette.

FOODIE TIP | Looking for a place to grab some brunch in the neighborhood? Pop into L’Eau Chaude, Atelier en Ville or L’Aubette.

to do in Brussels in a day

14. GO FOR A HIKE IN THE GREEN LUNG OF BRUSSELS

If you are looking for a truly local experience, make your way to Bois de La Cambre (Terkamerenbos) in the southern part of Brussels. This park bleeds into the extensive Sonienforest which is carpeted with an extensive network of well-signposted hikes. On a sunny weekend, you will find most locals love to hang out here.

Bois de La Cambre

Bois de La Cambre is a large forest area with a lake smack in the middle of it. Behind the lake a little kiosk aptly named “The Kiosk” serves sandwiches, beer, coffee, and cocktails. Bathrooms are available, though they are rudimentary. Alternatively, you can grab a waffle or ice cream from the little orange van called “Pascalino” which is parked by the side of the lake 365 days a year. Nibble on your treat as you walk around the lake.

The restaurant on the island is good for a drink (pay 1 euro to take the little boat across) but the food is overpriced. It might be tempting to order something, but this really is not the best place in Brussels to eat so sit tight until you get back into town for a bite to eat.

Sonian Forest

While Bois de La Cambre is more of a park, the Sonian Forest is as the name states a full-fledged forest. It covers over 5000 hectares and is one of the largest Beech-tree forests in Europe. In fact, it is so expansive it has made it to the Unesco World Heritage list. Various hikes are available from 3km to 25km, find your trail on the official Sonian Forest Website .

food in Belgium

Where to Eat & Drink During Your Two Days in Brussels

READ | 10 Mouthwatering vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Brussels ; Locals guide to brunch in Brussels ; Best pizza in Brussels The culinary scene is Brussels is really good. As the capital of Europe, the cuisines on offer are as cosmopolitan as the people that live here. As a vegetarian, I am not big on “traditional Belgian cuisine” as it is usually very meat- and cream-heavy. Below are a few restaurants I would recommend.

Restaurants in Brussels

TRADITIONAL BELGIAN CUISINE: Choux de Bruxelles, Aux Armes de Bruxelles, La Quincaillerie serve great traditional cuisine at respectable prices. Noordzee does the best shrimp croquettes in Brussels. I would avoid any of the other “Belgian” restaurants.

FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANTS: Manneken Pis Café, Tero and Les Filles are three of my favorite restaurants in Brussels that work with local producers. They serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

VEGAN RESTAURANTS: Humus & Hortense is a 1-star Michelin restaurant that serves up the very best vegan food. Liu Lin and Lil Bao are my go-to if I want Asian food that is vegan-friendly.

BEST FRIETKOT (French Fries): Flagey Frietkot & Fritland are my favorite in the city.

Best Bars in Brussels

BEST COCKTAIL BARS: La Belladone, Pharmacie Anglaise and Perché Rooftop Bar are my go-to for a good cocktail. Expect to pay upwards of €15 for a drink.

CRAFT BEER BARS: The Brussels Beer Project and Moeder Lambic are stellar choices if you are looking for craft beers from Brussels.

ART NOUVEAU BARS: Cirio and La Porteuse d’Eau are absolutely beautiful inside. Admittedly the service at both is lackluster and the drinks on the expensive side. The decor makes up for it though.

LIVELY BARS: Zebra and Mappa Mundo in the historical center or venture further out to the expat haven of Chatelain up-and-coming Parvis de Saint Gilles which are both choc-a-bloc full of bars and are always bustling.

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

Which Neighborhoods to Visit During Your Brussels Weekend?

The Brussels Capital Region is made up of 19 municipalities , each with a different zip code and name. To make things a bit more confusing the names exist in both Dutch and French. To an outsider, this can sometimes be a bit baffling  “why is Google telling me this is Anderlecht, when I want to be in Brussels?” .   The main tourist attractions are in the Historical Centre (1000 Bruxelles), the best restaurants and bars are around the Ixelles (1050) area and Art Nouveau lovers will want to check out Uccle (1180). Brussels is however more than merely Art Nouveau and the Grand Place, this 2-day Brussels itinerary takes you from North to South and explores the different municipalities to give you a better feel of the diversity Brussels has to offer.

in Brussels

Is Brussels a safe city?

Yes! Compared to many other capital cities like for example Amsterdam or Paris , Brussels is super safe. There are pockets of lesser safe streets (mostly around the train stations) but as a general rule, the city is very safe.

Neighborhoods to avoid when spending 2 days in Brussels

Unlike other large cities such as Palermo or Rome, Brussels has a fairly low crime rate. Do keep in mind the Historical Center has its share of pickpockets, keep your valuables close.

MIDI/CENTRAAL/NORTH STATION : The neighborhoods around the stations are a little dodgy. The majority of the crimes in this area are petty crimes (theft, drug deals, …) and will most likely not impact you as a tourist.

SINT JANS MOLENBEEK/ MOLENBEEK SAINT JEAN: Across the canal of Brussels lies a neighborhood that is up and coming. The first half of the neighborhood has plenty of museums and trendy bars which are great to visit. The inner folds of this neighborhood are a bit trickier to navigate, especially as a tourist. Stick to the streets surrounding the canal

Where to stay in Brussels

48 Hours in Brussels: Where to stay?

All hotels recommended have a focus on sustainability and minimizing their ecological impact by using locally sourced ingredients and supporting the local economy. Check all hotels in Brussels .

Best Views & Location – ($$) Warwick Grand Place

If you are looking for a hotel with the very best views over the Grand Place then the Warwick Hotel does the trick perfectly. Located a 2 min walk from both the Grand Place and the Brussels Central Station. Location : Near the main square

Most unique design – ($) Art Deco: Le Berger Hotel

The Art Deco: Le Berger Hotel is an experience if you appreciate Art Deco and design. Treat your eyes to the vintage and original Art Deco pieces throughout. Relax in the heated outside pool before you shop until you drop in one of Brussels’ most high-end neighborhoods, Le Sablon. Location: 10 min walk from the Magritte Museum

A cosmopolitan hotel – ($/$$) Moxy Brussels City Centre

This trendy and modern chain, Moxy, is serving up some of the best breakfasts in town. You can find their hotels all around the world. Brussels’ Moxy is conveniently surrounded by bars & restaurants so if you are looking to go out for the night this is the spot for you! Location : In the safest neighborhood of Brussels – Ixelles/Elsene

Map of All Things to Do During Your Weekend Break in Brussels

To help you navigate the various different things to do during your weekend in Brussels, I plotted them on a map for you. Check out the interactive Google Maps if you want a closer look, or alternatively sneak a peek at the below image. Green pins indicate day one, red pins indicate day two and yellow pins are the option activities of day three.

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

How to Get Around Brussels in 2 Days

If the weather is good, ditch public transportation and walk around. The city has sidewalks running along every street, be it small or large. I read a number of blogs proclaiming how easy it was to bike around Brussels, as a local I can tell you that information is categorically false. There is no safe infrastructure to bike in Brussels.

Should you be spending a weekend in Brussels where it happens to be raining cats and dogs – it happens, a lot sadly – then rely on the very solid public transportation network to get you from one end of the city to the other. Usually in under 40 minutes!

TIP | Spending a few days in Brussels and planning on hitting up a few museums. Look into the Brussels Card which includes both public transportation and entrance to 49 museums.

Hop on the metro and tram around Brussels

Two days in brussels via metro.

The Brussels Metro contains 6 lines which run from 05.30 am to midnight on weekdays, 06.00 to midnight on the weekend and public holidays. The entrance to the metro station is well-indicated with a blue sign containing a big white “M”. Stops are displayed on an electronic screen by the doors as well as announced over the speaker.

  • Lines 1 and 5 : Connect the east and west of Brussels. Take these to get to Cinquantenaire and the Brussels Park.
  • Lines 2 and 6 : The circle lines of Brussels. Take them to get to Brupark, the Atomium and Mini Europe.
  • Lines 3 and 4 : Connect northern and southern Brussels to each other. Great if you want to get to the Historical Centre of Brussels from Gare du Midi.

Taking the tram on your Brussels weekend break

With 17 lines whizzing above ground, the tram system in Brussels is in fact one of the largest in the world. Operating hours are the same as for the metro. Noteworthy are lines 3 and 4 which are knowns as the “pré-metro” as part of the route covered is underground giving it a distinct feeling of riding the metro. Finding a tram stop is easy as they are pretty much everywhere in the city. Stops are along the tram tracks and usually have a little covered bench, with a large pole containing a panel next to them. The panel has a number and a direction written on it to indicate which tram passes. Stops in the tram are indicated on a small electronic overhead panel by the door.

metro in Brussels - premetro line 3 and 4

Purchasing tickets for the metro and the tram

Tickets can be bought in advance from the gray and red machine (see above picture) by (credit) card or on the metro/tram itself. Purchasing tickets on the carriage itself is a simple as swiping your (credit) card in front of the red box placed inside, right next to the door.

TYPES OF TICKETS: Single-journey ticket (€2.5); 5-journey ticket (8); 10-journey ticket (€16.4) or a one-day travel card (€8). The 10-journey ticket is a card that can be topped up at the machine. Make sure to validate your ticket upon entering the tram/ metro. NOTE: The metro and tram have the same ticket e.g. if you purchase a 10-journey ticket you will be able to use it both on the tram and the metro (as well as certain busses, more on that below).

Busses in Brussels

Brussels is serviced by three different bus companies: De Lijn, STIB/MIVB and TEC. This makes taking the bus a bit complicated as each of the companies has a different way to purchase tickets.

DE LIJN: Busses are yellow and white . Tickets can be purchased on the bus (no cash payment allowed) or by sending a text message to 4884 with the words “DL” (only valid for Belgian numbers).

STIB: Busses are orange and gray. These busses operate with the same tickets as the tram and metro i.e. if you purchased a one-day pass you do not need to purchase a separate ticket for this bus.

TEC: Busses are bright yellow. Tickets can be purchased via their website or their app ar alternatively on the bus (cash only).

Nightbusses in Brussels

A weekend break in Brussels might mean spending a night on the town. Getting back to your hotel can be done via Uber or, alternatively, by using one of the night buses. The night busses called Noctis run Friday and Saturday from 12.15 am to 03.00 am departing from La Bourse.

Brussels Belgium

How to Get to Brussels

Fly into brussels.

Brussels has only one main airport Brussels International Airport . You might have noticed Brussels South Charleroi Airport pop up in your search and be a bit confused.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport is not Brussels, it is in fact an airport located 46 kilometers south of Brussels in a city called Charleroi.

Flights to Brussels South Charleroi airport are usually cheaper as this airport is the hub for low-cost airlines to and from Belgium.

Getting from Brussels International Airport to Brussels Centre

Option One: Take the Train

The easiest and fastest way to get from the airport to downtown Brussels is by taking the direct train. Head out of the arrivals area, and follow the panels with a train depicted on them. Trains run multiple times an hour (the last train runs until midnight). Brussels has three main stops: Brussels North, Brussels Central, Brussels Midi (South). The closest to the Grand Place is Brussels Central. Book tickets for the train to Brussels online

Option Two: Taxi or Transfer

Alternatively, grab a taxi at the arrival gate. Only take a taxi from the official taxi stand and always ask for them to put the meter on. The price should be around €45 ($49). A private airport transfer costs between $34 and $51 and is cheaper than the average Taxi price.

Getting from Brussels South Charleroi Airport to Brussels Centre

The Brussels South Charleroi Airport is located 46 kilometers from Brussels. Getting into Brussels will require you to take a bus that runs directly from Brussels South Charleroi Airport and drops you off at Brussels Midi (South) train station. A one-way ticket will set you back €15 ($18). While private transfers are possible, they quickly cost ($100) therefore I would recommend sticking with the busses.

Get Tickets : Check timetables and book tickets for the train to Brussels online

As a European capital, Brussels is well connected to other European cities via a network of (high) speed trains. In fact, a weekend trip to Brussels from London, Amsterdam or Paris is not at all uncommon . International trains pull into the Brussels Midi (south) Station. The Historical Center is closest to Brussels Central, therefore pop on a connecting train from Brussels Midi to Brussels Central (5 min train ride) to start your 48 hours in Brussels.

  • London to Brussels for a weekend : Travel time approx 2h two-way ticket prices range from €87 ($95) to €250 ($273) depending on how far in advance you book.
  • Paris to Brussels weekend : Travel time approx 1h30, two-way ticket prices range from €60 ($65) to €300 ($330). Booking in advance is essential for this route.
  • Amsterdam to Brussels for 2-days : Travel time approx 2h. Two-way ticket prices can cost as little as €40 ($43).

Get your tickets: Check timetables and book tickets online

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

Travel Tips Brussels In Two Days

LANGUAGE SPOKEN: The official languages spoken in Brussels are Dutch and French. Unofficially however you will find that most signs/informational panels will be in Dutch, French and English.

BRUSSELS CARD: If you are planning on visiting various museums and want to use public transportation in Brussels, I highly recommend investing in the Brussels Card . It includes 41 museums, so is a real money saver!

SUNDAY CLOSING DAY: Sunday is traditionally the day that most stores in the city close. In and around the Grand Place you will find many things open, but the further out you go (i.e. the more local you go) chances are high the store will be closed.

MONDAY CLOSING DAY: Paradoxically Monday is the day many bars and restaurants are closed (not Sunday).

TIPPING IN BELGIUM: Not mandatory, appreciated but not expected as a 6% service charge is already included in the bill.

PAYMENT BY CARD: (Credit) cards are accepted virtually everywhere.

Day trips from Brussels by train

How to Visit Brussels More Sustainably

TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Ditch the car, chances are high you will only end up in a nerve-wracking struggle to find parking anyway. The city is serviced by a comprehensive network of metro, bus and trams. Learn about public transport in Brussels .

SECOND-HAND SHOPPING: Brussels has some stellar second-hand shopping! For anything interior design-related head to Rue Haute or Rue Blaes in the Marolles neighborhood. Isabelle Bajart (luxury second-hand clothing), Melting Pot Kilo (Vintage clothing) and Episodes (“cool” vintage clothing) are some of my favorites.

PURCHASE LOCAL: If you are in the mood to buy a souvenir, why not purchase something locally made. Yuman has a large selection of ‘made in Brussels’ items. The Dansasert area has local fashion brands (Café Costume, Komono, Essentiel Antwerp, ICON).

STAY IN A LOCALLY RUN ACCOMMODATION: Instead of staying in a hotel chain, why not stay in a locally run B&B or pick a sustainable boutique hotel .

GETTING THERE: Brussels can easily be reached by train from all major cities including Paris and Amsterdam. Be a conscious traveler and hop on the train!

RECYCLE YOUR TRASH: Belgium does a good job when it comes to recycling. Paper, single-use plastic and organic trash is sorted from the regular trash. Read up on how to recycle (only relevant if you are staying in an Airbnb or B&B).

Mont des Arts Kunstberg Brussels to do

Why You Should Spend a Weekend in Brussels

Truth be told, Brussels tends to hold her cards very close to her heart awarding only the curious traveler with a glimpse of her beauty. Two days in Brussels is enough to get a feeling for what the city has on offer. From majestic guild houses to chaotic flea markets, this is unapologetically Brussels. Read why Brussels is worth visiting ! Spend at least one day in the Historical Center exploring the magnificent architecture and eating all the Belgian fries you can master. Try and venture out of the more touristy center on day two to explore world-class Art Nouveau architecture, street art and the very random monument containing 9 stainless steel spheres called The Atomium.

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BRUSSELS & SURROUNDINGS

Accommodation Guide: Comprehensive overview of the various areas of Brussels and where to stay Travel Guide: One day in Brussels Travel Guide: 31 Fun day trips from Brussels Travel Guide: Hidden gems in Brussels Travel Guide: 10 Must-see castles around Brussels Food Guide: Best brunch places in Brussels Belgium Guide: 16 Castle hotels in Belgium you can stay in Belgium Guide: 24 Beautiful places in Belgium for your bucketlist

Weekend in Brussels: Pin it

2 Day Brussels Itinerary: How to Spend an Unforgettable Weekend in Brussels

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Castle Hotels in Belgium - Kasteel van Ordingen

Great itinerary. I recently returned from a weekend trip to Brussels and had an amazing time. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a short getaway.

hello@veggiewayfarer.com

Thanks Alice. Glad you liked my beloved Brussels 🙂

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Caroline Muller

Thanks for dropping in! With this blog I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. 

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sunset over Brussels at Mont Des Arts gardens in central Brussels

Sit back for sunset in Brussels’ historic center. (Photo: Getty Images)

How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Brussels

Brussels, that most delightful of cities, makes for the perfect weekend vacation. Brussels’ rich architecture and history, exciting arts scene, otherworldly flavors, unique neighborhoods and stunning nature are sure to stay with you for long after your dream trip.

Friday evening: savor the sights and sounds of the Grand-Place

Grand-Place historic square in Brussels in the evening

Start your weekend in style at the Grand-Place, the very heart of Belgian capital Brussels and one of the most beautiful main squares in Europe. Linger over a coffee at one of its cafés and watch the world go by — the antique  Le Roy d’Espagne  is a fine choice.

Stretching out from the Grand-Place are the narrow lanes and alleys of the Lower Town. Here you’ll find a statue of the Manneken Pis (the city’s mascot), the deluxe Galeries St-Hubert shopping arcade, a museum devoted to the famous chanson singer  Jacques Brel , and the  Comics Arts Museum , dedicated to that distinctively Belgian art form, the comic strip.

One of the best hotels in Brussels is in this part of town: the handsome  Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place , which offers superb city views from some guest rooms. Another great choice in this neighborhood is  The Dominican, Brussels, a Member of Design Hotels , a cool and stylish hotel on a discreet little square.

Saturday morning: make a Royal connection

gardens and exterior of Brussels' Royal Palace

A leisurely morning stroll around Brussels’ Upper Town is a great way to start the day. For centuries, this was where the city’s upper classes lived, hence the dignified boulevards and elegant town houses.

The first port of call here should be the majestic Cathedral, where Belgian royals get crowned and married, followed by the Royal Palace — the  Palais Royal .

One part of the Royal Palace now holds the  Musée BELvue , which burrows into the intricacies of Belgian history, and then there is the intriguing maze of old tunnels beneath the  Coudenberg Palace , which provide a sense of the sheer size of what was once the Emperor Charles V’s headquarters.

Visitors can then follow in the steps of royalty by strolling the tree-lined footpaths of the Parc de Bruxelles, or make their way to the place du Grand Sablon, where  Au Vieux Saint Martin  offers an outstanding, very Belgian menu — think crevettes from Ostend and wild boar from the Ardennes.

Saturday afternoon: find inspiration in great arts and music

downtown Brussels street, Brussels' Musée des Instruments de Musique (MIM)

Ensconced in the Upper Town are the  Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique , which together hold one of the world’s largest and finest collections of European art, from Rogier van der Weyden to Rembrandt.

It’s a fabulous collection that could absorb you for hours. There’s also the adjacent  Musée Magritte , which showcases the keynote paintings of enigmatic surrealist René Magritte, who spent most of his life in Brussels.

Famous painters are one thing, but the city’s street art is another. With murals and installations dotted across the city; you can’t fail to notice some of them, but there are street art walking trails too — check out the official  PARCOURS Street Art website .

For something artistic in a different way, head to  MIM , an intriguing musical instrument museum, where they have recordings of every type of medieval music you can imagine.

Stay the night in the EU quarter, just east of the city center, at the smart  Renaissance Brussels Hotel , with its heated pool and The Poet Restaurant; the well-appointed  Aloft Brussels Schuman Hotel ; or the funky  Moxy Brussels City Center  in Ixelles, where some guest rooms have private balconies and fabulous views.

Saturday evening: discover Ste-Catherine and gourmet Brussels

Ste-Catherine church in Brussels

The inhabitants of Brussels, the Bruxellois, are real gastronomes. Seafood lovers should head for the place Ste-Catherine neighborhood, where, among many great dining options, you’ll find  Le Vismet , a neat, bistro-style restaurant offering a delicious range of fish and shellfish.

In season between October and March,  moules marinières  (mussels) appear regularly on many a menu prepared in a variety of ways, though it’s hard to beat the classic garlic and wine.

The other advantage of Ste-Catherine is its proximity to Rue Antoine Dansaert, home of an outstanding bar and  microbrewery , the  Brussels Beer Project .

For the carnivores, there are several traditional restaurants near the Grand-Place offering dishes you don’t often see elsewhere — the likes of pigs’ trotters, fricassée of rabbit and steamed eels.

One of them is  La Roue d’Or , a second is  Restaurant de l’Ogenblik . Further afield, near the Bourse,  Nuetnigenough  prepares exquisite rabbit cooked in beer, whilst  Au Stekerlaplatte , down in the Marolles, does an outstanding dish of veal kidneys in a Dijonnaise sauce.

Keeping it traditional, there are several ancient bars near the Grand-Place too, most memorably Au Bon Vieux Temps, a charming little place tucked away down an alley.

Sunday morning: explore the bohemian side of Ixelles

gardens of Abbaye de la Cambre

Ixelles is the most bohemian of the city’s inner municipalities. On Sunday mornings its citizens gather at the area’s myriad cafés to mull over news and events — and there’s nowhere better to join them than Café Belga . Ixelles is also known for its exquisite Art Nouveau mansions, one of which — the superlative Horta Museum  — is a must-see.

Afterwards, it’s tempting to wander through the Marolles district, where the place du Jeu de Balle hosts the city’s most famous flea market, with no fewer than three hundred stalls.

On the edge of the Marolles, as you head back into the city center, look out for an especially handsome church, Notre Dame de la Chapelle, and an outstanding restaurant,  Les Brigittines , where the menu is very Bruxellois.

Sunday morning: breathe deeply in green Laeken

greenhouse roof at Laeken in Brussels

To round off your weekend in more bucolic surroundings, there are easy woodland walks — as well as a picturesque former abbey — in the  Bois de La Cambre , at the southern tip of Ixelles. This was once a royal hunting ground and is now a forested tract of land latticed with footpaths.

When visiting Brussels in springtime, the highlight must be the  Royal Greenhouses of Laeken.  Open to the public for just three weeks every year (between April and May), these greenhouses, some of which are heated, some not, are absolutely absorbing, comprising an enormous complex set in a royal park.

The greenhouses are on the northern edge of the city, but easy enough to reach by public transport.

Extending your stay — and your horizons

Ghent historic riverfront at night

Belgium is a small country with an efficient rail network, which brings a wealth of lovely old towns and cities within easy reach. An obvious target is Bruges, probably the most perfectly preserved medieval town in Europe, but there’s also the university town of Leuven and cosmopolitan Antwerp, with its fine medieval buildings and riverside setting.

And there’s more: a long sandy beach stretches for mile after mile along the North Sea coast and the Hallerbos forest is famous for its springtime bluebells. If you target Antwerp, there’s a great hotel there in the shape of the chic  Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection .

Last but not least, there’s the beguiling city of Ghent, which boasts great restaurants, a humming nightlife and a hotel that sits at the very center of things, the  Ghent Marriott Hotel .

Should Ghent capture your heart, linger a while at  Residence Inn by Marriott Ghent . The property’s spacious apartment suites — not to mention the complimentary grocery delivery service — lend themselves as much to extended stays as to a comfortable overnight.

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Belgium , Europe , Weekend getaways

How to spend a perfect weekend in brussels.

2 days city trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of the most visited cities in Belgium. Since I live in Ghent, I have already been to Brussels several times. This was often a day trip for shopping, visiting a museum or exhibition or meeting friends. However, I had never really experienced Brussels as a tourist. That is why Jan and I decided to plan a weekend in Brussels with a mission to explore the best things to do and see in the city centre of Brussels for you.

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How to get to Brussels?

All major cities in Belgium are easily accessible by public transport. Since Belgium is such a small country, the journey doesn’t take too long. From Ghent to Brussels it’s half an hour by train. For the weekend there are also special rates that make traveling by train more interesting than by car. In cities public parking is often very expensive.

If you still prefer to travel to Brussels by car, then choose a hotel with parking. Or park on the outskirts of the city and travel there by metro to the city centre. Don’t forget that Brussels has been a low emission zone since 2018. If your car does not meet the requirements, don’t forget to register your vehicle to avoid costs.

Moreover, traffic in Brussels is very busy. Within Brussels you can move easily and quickly by public transport such as the metro or bus. The best way to get to know the city better is of course on foot. You can also use the shared bicycles or scooters .

Because Brussels has such a central location in Belgium it’s the perfect base to explore more of Belgium. Don’t forget to check out the best day trips from Brussels as well.

Where to stay in Brussels?

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

For our weekend in Brussels we chose the 9hotelcentral which is located within walking distance of the central station. The hotel spoke immediately to us because of the location in the heart of Brussels and the semi-industrial/ vintage interior, which I am huge fan of. This style gives a trendy vibe but also a warm and cosy feeling.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

The price-quality ratio is also important to us. And at this hotel you get value for your money. The rooms are trendy, cosy, warm and inviting. I immediately felt at home. In addition, the rooms are also spacious, very well kept and functionally furnished.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Do you prefer to stay somewhere else? Check out this map for more hotels in Brussels and find out the best deals. Booking.com

How to spend a weekend in Brussels?

Grand place.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

If you like historical architecture, vibrant atmosphere, culture and local specialties, you can’t miss the Grand Place and its surroundings!

The Grand Place is one of Europe’s most beautiful markets and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list because of its beautiful historic buildings.The Grand Place is the starting point of a maze with little streets and alleys where you can wander off. In these streets you will find shops with local specialties and souvenirs. Do not forget to enjoy delicacies like a fries with mayonnaise or a Brussels waffle with toppings of your choice. This is definitely one of the things Belgium is famous for .

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

One thing you can miss on your weekend in Brussels is bringing a visit to ‘Manneke Pis’. This is one of the most famous Belgian monuments and is a symbol of the city of Brussels.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

The most beautifully decorated shop windows and the best Brussels chocolate shops can be found in the galleries of St. Hubert. These glass-covered shopping galleries are a treasure for strolling by and window shopping.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Rue de Boucher

Afterwards you can also walk through the famous Rue de Boucher. This is especially at best in the evening when all restaurants are open, than the street lights completely up. It’s such a vibrant neighbourhood. Waiters are outside trying to seduce you to come in and eat in their restaurants… How attractive this may look. Try to resist the temptation. These are often tourist traps! To have a nice meal, you can walk a little further to the next neighbourhood.

In a side street of rue de Boucher you will find the Délirium cafe . There you can drink all kinds of Belgian beers from the draft. The cafe is quite dark, but it has that typical interior you expect from a beer cafe. When you consider going there for some beer tasting, go down to the basement. It is much nicer and cosy to sit there. If you’re into belgian beer, than you should definitely consider doing a belgian beer tour in Brussels .

The Dansaert

As I mentioned before, do not be tempted to dine in Rue de Boucher. Continue your path a little further to the trendy neighbourhood the Dansaert. In the Rue De Flandre you will find nice and cosy restaurants with delicious food and good value for your money. There are also trendy and nice bars where you can go for a drink after dinner.

We went for dinner in VIVA M’BOMA . Here you can enjoy typical Brussels cuisine in a nice setting. Try to book in advance especially in weekends. Afterwards we enjoyed a nice cocktail in Bar Des Amis .

Mont des Arts & Place Royal

The name speaks for itself. The Mont des Arts is a hill full of culture. If you are a real culture lover and like visiting museums, this is the perfect place for you. You can find the best museums over here, including the famous Museé Magritte .

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

On top of the hill you have a beautiful panorama view of Brussels. If you want a more exclusive view, be sure to eat or drink something in the MIM , the museum of musical instruments. This is also beautiful historical building with a restaurant on the top floor. There you have an excellent view of Brussels.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

On the way to the top of the Mont de Arts you will find La Pharmacie Anglaise . This is a beautiful cocktail bar. It was originally a pharmacy. The cocktail bar is completely decorated in the theme of an old Pharmacy. The interior is simply magnificent and you can drink somewhat more special cocktails than in a regular cocktail bar. It’s so worth it. The cocktail bar is only open in the evening and if you want a spot it’s better to reserve in advance.

When you reach the top of Mont des Arts, you will arrive at the Place Royal. From there you can take two directions. One to the Palais Royal and a second one to the Sablon.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Palais Royal & Parc de Bruxelles

From the Place Royal it’s not far to visit the royal palace. It’s definitely worth to go for a short walk and see where the king of Belgium works. There is also a beautiful city park in front of the palace. Besides the palace there are many more beautiful castles near Brussels . So if you have some extra time to spend, you definitely need to check them out as well.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Petit & Grand Sablon

If you go to the other side from Place Royal you will reach the neighbourhood of the Sablon. The Petit Sablon is a small, but very beautifully landscaped park and a very nice place to just relax for a while. The Grand Sablon is the perfect area to do some shopping. You will find nice antique shops, shops with local specialties and nice, atmospheric bars. I really loved wandering through this neighbourhood.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

If you walk a little further, you can take a lift to the Palais de Justice where you also have a panoramic view of Brussels. Personally, I didn’t think this was so spectacular. I prefer the panoramic view on top of the MIM.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Marolles & Place du Jeu de balle

If you want to do real bargains then don’t forget to go to Place de Jeu de balle for the daily flea market. It’s only open in the mornings. Every day it’s packed with beautiful vintage items. Sometimes prices are high, but don’t forget to negotiate prices. That’s the way to business over here!

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

In the neighbourhood around the Placce du Jeu de balle you will find authentic vintage and antique shops. It’s a nice place just to wander around. Don’t forget to threat yourself after shopping on an aperitif in a traditional, local Brussels bar.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Other things to do in Brussels

Of course there are many more sights in Brussels. Don’t forget to check the offers of Get your guide, the ideal travel partner for guided tours or for booking entrance tickets for the most special sights, below.

Video weekend in Brussels

Don’t forget to watch the compilation video about how we spent a weekend in Brussels

During our weekend in Brussels, we especially enjoyed exploring the city and the traditional, vibrant Brussels atmosphere.

Would you like more tips for a weekend in Brussels? Check ouyt my favorite travel guides below. These will  help you plan an unforgettable city trip to Brussels.

Are you planning to visit more Belgian cities. Be sure to check out my blog posts about how to spend a day in Bruges , the best things to do in Damme ,  the most beautiful places in Ghent , where to stay in Ghent and this amazing city guide about Antwerp written by a local.

What can’t be missing from you weekend in Brussels? Let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading.

Yours truly,

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Sarah de gheselle, 12 thoughts on “ how to spend a perfect weekend in brussels ”.

I’ve been to Brussels only once, last Christmas. It was too crowded, I am wondering if that’s always the case, but I managed to do all the things you suggested; at least I think so, because I am not good with names! I liked Brussels and this post reminded me of all these good days there, but Bruges stole my heart! Next time I wish to go to Ghent so I will follow all your advice!

Yes Brussels can get very crowded especially during the holidays. I do hope you visit Ghent and after that visit let me know if Bruges is still your favorite 🙂

Great post! I visited Brussels for the first time last year, but only for a day. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert was definitely one of my favorite spots, as well as Grand Place (which is indeed very grand and beautiful). I’d love to go back and explore some more of the places you mentioned!

Olivia, I really hope you do that. Brussels has many more gems 🙂

Brussels is just so incredible pretty! Once the crisis is over, I will go back and eat all the waffles I can find!

Haha, give me a call then. We’ll go together 😉

Wow the architecture of Brussels is soo beautiful. Love to go!

Yes, this is one of the many thing I really love Belgium, the historical architecture 🙂

Brussels looks absolutely incredible! I can’t believe I still haven’t managed to visit – it’s time to change that! 🙂

I hope you do Kriszti! You won’t regret it 🙂 I promise!

Brussels seems like a perfect option to spend a long weekend! Thank you for sharing..

Yes, it’s a great city to explore 🙂

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Twenty-four hours in Brussels: an easy weekend trip from London

The buildings of the Grande Place in Brussels lit up at night

The Imagination Trail September 22, 2019 5 Comments

Belgium , Europe

Belgium , Brussels , cities , culture , Europe , Eurostar , museums , solo travel , The Imagination Trail , trains

I’ve mentioned several times already how one of the things I’m enjoying about living in London is the wealth of access points to Europe and beyond that this city offers. Probably the easiest is the Eurostar; the train which departs from St Pancras International Station and zooms through the tunnel underneath the English Channel onto the continent . So when I recently saw an alert for a Eurostar sale, I took a peek, and decided to grab myself some cheap seats for a weekend trip to Brussels, Belgium’s capital – a new city and a new country for me.

I took the first train out on a Saturday morning so it was a very early start, but the check-in procedures in London are quick and simple; luggage through the scanner, UK passport check and then French Border Control directly afterwards, all done in the space of 10 minutes (unfortunately with Brexit looming, I will probably never have this easy experience again). After just over two hours on a fast and comfortable train, I was able to disembark, and walk straight out of Brussels/Bruxelles Midi/Zuid Station and into the city.

I’d booked a night in a hostel in the northern part of the city centre, so it was just a half-hour walk up from the station to go and drop my bag before heading out to explore. The central part of Brussels is quite compact and easily walkable. I’d looked up the main points of attraction already, and decided that with everything quite close, the easiest way to see things was to pretty much just wander.

It was a warm, sunny morning towards the end of summer, and there were plenty of other tourists out and about too. My first stop was Brussels Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church where a wedding was in full swing – the happy couple were having photographs taken on the steps, and will have appeared in a lot of holiday snaps too!

The gothic facade of Brussels Cathedral on a sunny day

From there I walked down to the Grand Place, or the Grote Markt (in the Brussels region, the two official languages spoken are French and Dutch, so most locations and buildings are known by at least two names). This is a very large square which is the focal point of the city centre for visitors (if you take any walking tours whilst you’re here, somewhere within this area will probably be your meeting point). The City Hall and various other fancy buildings which line the square gave it a very “grand” feeling in the English sense of the word too. Everywhere I looked there were tourists taking photos, and the outdoor terraces of the cafes, bars and restaurants around the edge were already busy.

The buildings and outdoor cafe terraces

After taking in the stunning architecture, I went on a short walk in search of what seemed to be the most well-loved monument in Brussels; the Manneken Pis. As the name suggests, this is a small statue of a boy appearing to pee into a fountain. He gets dressed up in various costumes throughout the year, and the souvenir shops are full of miniature versions and other related trinkets; there was even a replica in the foyer of my hostel! I knew I’d arrived at the right spot when I spotted a massive throng of tourists crowded around something with their cameras, and, when I got to the front to take a look myself, I have to admit I was quite underwhelmed – it really is just a little statue of a urinating boy! I was more impressed by the Manneken Pis street art piece which I found a little way up the road as I walked away, utterly bemused by the whole thing.

The Manneken Pis, a statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain, dressed in a little red coat

It was about time for some lunch, so I headed in the direction of a vegan waffle shop, Veganwaf’ , which had been recommended to me by a friend. I found it quite easily inside the Galerie Agora, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed; all of the options that you’d expect from a Belgian waffle vendor were there, all in cruelty-free form, and not only did I enjoy a delicious waffle with heaps of chocolate sauce, but the guy behind the counter even gave me some recommendations for vegan restaurant options for dinner that evening.

A vegan Belgian waffle with chocolate sauce from Veganwaf in Brussels

Full of waffle, my next stop was the Mont des Arts, or the Kunstberg area of the city centre. This is the site of several museums and galleries, and, sitting atop a hill, provides a brilliant view out over central Brussels.

The city of Brussels viewed from the top of the Mont des Arts

From here it was a 20 minute walk to one of the things I absolutely had to see whilst I was in Brussels; the European Parliament. As someone who has always had an interest in politics, not to mention a British person with very strong views on Brexit (it’s a fucking stupid idea, if anyone was in any doubt as to where my feelings lie), I was keen to see the buildings myself, having never visited before. There is a museum where visitors can learn more about the history and the workings of Parliament, but I was content to wander around the exterior of the complex (and to get a #fuckbrexit selfie of course).

The curved architecture of one of the buildings that is part of the European Parliament in Brussels

#fuckbrexit

I headed back to the Mont des Arts, via the Parc de Bruxelles and Palais de Bruxelles. There were buskers playing music in the gardens below, and at the top of the steps a little bar stall had been set up, with yellow deckchairs set out for punters to sit and enjoy the view. With the temperature now hitting 30 degrees and not a cloud in the sky, this seemed like the ideal spot to stop for a rest and a Belgian beer high above the city.

The iron gates with the Palais de Bruxelles behind

I had time for one museum that afternoon, and I decided to continue the beer theme and visit the Museum of the Belgian Brewers , back down on the Grande Place. In hindsight, this probably wasn’t the best choice; it was a lot smaller than I had anticipated and the 5 euro entry fee, which included a free beer, was essentially just paying for the beer, an information video and a few information boards. It was a nice beer and a lovely old-fashioned little bar, but if I were doing this trip again I would definitely have picked one of the many other museums in the city centre.

A little more wandering – there is plenty of street art and lots of interesting architecture to see in the various streets within Brussels – and then it was time for dinner. I picked the first of the recommendations that I’d been given, Liu Lin , a vegan Taiwanese restaurant where I enjoyed a delicious bowl of rice noodles and various vegetables.

A building in Brussels with brightly colour bicycle sculptures attached to the outside

After an evening walk, with the air still warm and dusk approaching, I decided to return to the little bar with the deckchairs on the Mont des Arts for another beer while I watched the sun set over the city.

The sun setting over Brussels as viewed from the Mont des Arts with people sitting in yellow deckchairs

It was Saturday night and Brussels was buzzing, with groups of visitors starting to hit the bars, and lots of tourists trying to get photographs of the stunning buildings of the Grande Place all lit up after dark.

It definitely seemed to be a party city, but after a long day of exploring, I was ready to return to my hostel to have a beer in the quiet bar there, before heading to bed. The next morning my train was leaving just before lunchtime, so being an early riser, I had time for a Sunday morning walk through the quiet streets, meeting only a handful of other tourists, and the street sweepers clearing the debris of the previous night; a total contrast to the busy city of the day before.

It was another quick and easy train journey back to London, and I was home by early afternoon, ready to prepare for the working week ahead. For me, Brussels was an ideal weekend trip; it was a lovely city, but there wasn’t that much to do there, so it was perfect for one day and one night of exploring. Had I been staying longer, I could have visited some of the other museums, and checked out the Atomium , a strange scientific-shaped building, now a museum, which is another popular attraction. However, I think that I was able to get a sense of Brussels and see the highlights of the city during my 24 hours there.

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A gargoyle-like sculpture in a wall along the Parkland walk

It’s so cool to see how much you enjoyed the visit. I’m not a fan of Brussels, so every time life has taken me there, I’ve spent all my time drowiling at chocolate shop windows, drinking beer, and eating waffles. Maybe next time I should take another look 🙂

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I thought Brussels was such a nice place. I basically ate chocolate and drank beer the whole time. The street art was really cool, love the piece you found. I was also a bit underwhelmed by the manneken pis though

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Brussels is easily one of my most favourite cities – and so easy to get to! Did you have time to visit the Choco-Story museum? If not, you should definitely check it out next time you go! 🙂

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I´ve been to Brussels about two years ago and I wasn´t sure if I like it. Somehow the feeling I had wasn´t convincing, but I always wanted to give the city another chance. So I might go back one time, maybe for longer than a day to find out if I like it or not.

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Great post. Brussels is so easy to reach thanks to the Eurostar. I’ve been a few times for work (including quick day trip to/from London), but have yet to actually do a proper weekend trip there. Although it is on my bucket list. But even just the few glimpses I caught in the evenings were just stunning.

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Brussels landmarks and attractions

Start at the Grand-Place : at the very heart of the historic city centre, this attractive baroque square is within walking distance of most Brussels landmarks worth a visit. The nearby Royal Galleries   of Saint Hubert house chic shops and cafés, a theatre and top-tiers chocolatiers . From there, stroll up the Jardin du Mont des Arts to the Royal Palace and the city’s compact cluster of museums. Don’t forget to look up: the city’s art nouveau architectural details are integral to its charm. Other Brussels attractions include the Sablon, an attractive square that doubles up as a weekend antiques market, and the Atomium , a futurist steel structure offering wow-worthy views over the city.

brussels weekend trip

Brussels’ top cultural spots

Handily, many of Brussels’ top cultural spots are within walking distance of each other. Just one of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts’ six branches, the Magritte Museum houses 200 of the iconic surrealist artist’s works. Cultural centre Bozar hosts gigs, film screenings and performances. The Comics Arts Museum pays tribute to Hergé’s Tintin, as well as other beloved Belgian characters such as the Smurfs and Spirou. Head to the Horta Museum for a glimpse inside Belgian architect Victor Horta’s former home and workshop – a wonderfully preserved art nouveau time capsule.

brussels weekend trip

The Grand-Place (Grote Markt)

The Brussels Grand-Place, rebuilt after a bombardment at the end of the 17th century, has taken its rightful place on the Unesco list of protected sites. Once the seat of Brussels’ power, it now hosts year-round public events. You can tour the flamboyant Brussels Hôtel de Ville and the neo-gothic Maison du Roi, which now houses the City Museum , and gawp at the opulent guild halls surrounding them. Manneken Pis – a comical statue of a little urinating boy – is another must-see icon. If you’re lucky, you might even catch him wearing one of his many ceremonial outfits.

brussels weekend trip

Place Sainte-Catherine

Locals have a soft spot for lively, vibrant Sainte-Catherine, the mainly Flemish neighbourhood where Brussels’ former fish market once stood. This laid-back warren of little streets is packed with casual eating and drinking spots. Perennial favourites include ice cream maestro Gaston , De Markten for its beloved terrace and Noordzee , a fish shop rustling up small plates for punters to devour at stand-up tables. Check out Centrale , a former power station turned art centre, now championing contemporary local artists with an intriguing programme of exhibitions, workshops and tours.

brussels weekend trip

Overlooked by an ornate church, the elegant Place du Grand Sablon is perfect for a slow amble. You’ll find a few sweet-toothed hot spots around town (the Royal Galleries and rue de l’Étuve get honourable mentions), but none as delightful as this genteel corner of Brussels. If the names Marcolini, Leonidas, Wittamer and Neuhaus don’t ring a bell, all the better: it’s just the excuse you’ll need to sample their exquisite chocolate creations. Once you’ve run out of steam, grab a terrace table at Chez Richard for shrimp croquettes and other timeless bistro fare.

brussels weekend trip

The best parks in Brussels

Bruxellois head outdoors at the first hint of sunshine, and with good cause: from flower beds to forests, the city has a green space for everyone. Parc du Cinquantenaire is perhaps the grandest of them all. Make a beeline for open-air bar Guinguette Maurice once you’ve worked up a thirst. Tucked away near the museums, Parc d’Egmont has a sculpture garden, orangerie café and fine palace views. For a deep breath of fresh air, head to Bois de la Cambre . This meandering forest trail comes complete with roaming deer, a café only accessible by boat and even a nightclub.

Best places to eat in Brussels

brussels weekend trip

What to eat in Brussels

Though classic Belgian fare – shrimp croquettes, hearty stews and Dame Blanche sundaes – should definitely be on your must-try list, make time for Brussels’ trendier eateries. The city’s cosmopolitan dining scene is up there with the best: expect small plates, carefully sourced produce and biodynamic wines. Le 203 in Saint Gilles is a stellar example of the genre. Menus change every Tuesday with the chef’s seasonal whims. Venues can be small, so it’s worth calling ahead if you have your heart set on one. If not, here’s more foodie inspiration .

brussels weekend trip

Brussels' best mussels

It would be criminal to leave without a taste of moules frites, the city’s signature dish. Where to find the best mussels in Brussels is a matter of heated debate, though the fact remains that bowls of plump mussels and golden fries are hard to beat. Chez Léon is a tourist favourite with good reason. But some might find the formal stylings in classy Aux Armes de Bruxelles more to their taste. At art nouveau brasserie Le Cirio , order your mollusks with a glass of ‘half and half’, a perfect pairing of white wine and champagne.

brussels weekend trip

The best waffles in Brussels

Is your waffle of choice from Liège (soft, caramelised and craggy-edged) or from Brussels (rectangular, light and fluffy)? When it’s time to pick your fighter, Maison Dandoy handily serves both in its speculoos-scented tearoom. It’s not, of course, the only waffle joint in town: Brussels' favourite snack has many champions. Wildly popular Le Funambule serves theirs with all manner of fruit, cream and chocolate toppings, all the better to Instagram with. Minimalist Galet is innovating with savoury waffle sandwiches and healthy smoothies – traditionalists, look away now.

Where to stay in Brussels

With such a compact city, you could hardly go wrong when choosing where to stay in Brussels. Whether you’re looking for boutique hotels or cheap places to stay in Brussels , the old town is one of the best neighbourhoods in Brussels for tourists. But it’s worth looking further afield. The gastronomic hubs of Ixelles and Saint Gilles are ideal for foodies. Staying near Louise will give fashionistas easy access to designer shops and luxury boutiques. Don’t discount the hotels near Gare du Midi: the vintage shops around the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market are enough to fill an entire weekend break in Brussels.

brussels weekend trip

Book a train and hotel package to Brussels

Eurostar city breaks to Brussels don’t begin and end with the travel, we also give you the opportunity to select your hotel and book the full trip with us.

Best time to visit Brussels

brussels weekend trip

All year round

Though summer’s open-air hangouts and festivals have many charms, the season isn’t the only one worth a trip to Brussels. The city’s reputation for rainy weather isn’t entirely without merit, but Brussels has wholeheartedly embraced the Scandinavian concept of hygge. Cosy up in autumn and winter with pints of Trappist beers, braised chicons and carbonnade stew, and explore your pick of the best galleries at your own pace. Spring’s brighter and balmier days mean you can make the most of Brussels' café culture. Head like a local to Café Belga’s terrace to bask in the first rays of sunshine. The best time to visit Brussels, in short, is when the urge takes you – whatever the weather.

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Quick Great Escapes From Brussels

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As the center of Europe, Brussels and its intriguing cultural scene strikes an optimal balance between national and international influences. But no matter if you find yourself here for one weekend, six months or a number of years: if you still wish to go beyond the Brussels area, we are about to show you 10 destinations that prove why this city is the perfect home base for day trips!

Whether you are interested in classic art from painters like Rubens to more contemporary representatives, or in eclectic fashion with its array of established and emerging designers; or whether you like listening to live music in one its many concert venues , Antwerp is definitely the place to be. Let this busy seaport city surprise you with a remarkable gathering of things to see and to do , and take note of Antwerp’s chocolate trademark, the Antwerpse Handjes , which symbolize the folklore behind the creation of this city.

brussels weekend trip

Step off the train and travel down a pathway that leads right to this UNESCO World Heritage center, disclosing the town’s life’s blood: the Burg with its Basilica of the Holy Blood (its yearly procession should not be missed). Beyond the Groeningemuseum ’s understated display, explore more extravagant ones, such as Choco-Story or the Museum-Gallery XPO Salvador Dalí , unexpectedly located within a Belfry tower. Before jumping on the last train to Brussels, quench your thirst with the local Bruges Zot, crafted at the Brewery De Halve Maan .

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brussels weekend trip

Fonske, Leuven’s mascot, is a statue depicting a boy holding a book in one hand and a mug pouring water over his head in the other, unexpectedly tying two of Leuven’s more prominent features: a strong academic community and a beer culture that also serves as the home base for Stella Artois. Be sure to visit St. Peter’s Church and the breathtaking University Central Library, as well as the Great Béguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another great fact, unknown to many, is that Leuven hosts one of the oldest botanical gardens in Belgium, the Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, which is definitely worth a trip on a sunny day.

brussels weekend trip

There is something special in this corner of Flanders: a model of a 17th-century Japanese tea garden. This highly detailed complex of paths, waterfalls and cherry trees stretched around 2.5 hectares, forms a peaceful exotic landscape that is perfect for a whimsical stroll. Be sure to reserve your spot in one of the tea ceremonies hosted in this special garden.

brussels weekend trip

Namur is an intriguing town located in a charming setting between two rivers and surrounded by castles, such as Vêves and the abandoned Noisy . Get inspired by the symbol of this city, the snail, and enjoy its cultural attractions – such as the Saint Aubain Cathedral or the Felicien Rops Museum – at your own pace. If in season, taste the juiciest strawberries from nearby Wépion , reachable through a short Namourette boat ride.

Taking pride in its rich historic heritage, while enjoying glimpses of contemporary architecture , Liège is a bustling city full of things to see and to do . If you happen to be in the area on an early Sunday morning, take a peek at the Marché de la Batte , one of the most expansive in Europe. Before coming back to Brussels, taste the typical boulettes à la liégeoise or simply savour the peket , a local liqueur made from juniper berries.

brussels weekend trip

Dinant may be considered to have one of the most breathtaking views over the Meuse river in all of Wallonia. Discover iconic saxophones celebrating Adolphe Sax, who was born here, in the most unexpected place, including the Charles de Gaulle Bridge , which leads to Adolphe’s home-turned-museum . Take a small tour either with a stroll down the river admiring the Gothic Collegiate Church of Our Lady, or trek to the top of the citadel for a historical tour and a spectacular view of the city. Eventually, why not have a break with a refreshing beer at the Maison Leffe ?

brussels weekend trip

As one of the oldest town in Belgium, Tournai and its astonishing skyline proudly embraces all of its main attractions: from the oldest military construction – the ‘Pont des Trous ‘ – to the UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral of Notre-Dame , and a Museum of Fine Arts built by Victor Horta. Combine a visit of these beauties with one of the main annual events, such as its traditional carnival .

On Brussels’ doorstep facing South-East, La Hulpe is a placid town mainly known for its French-style castle and also for its farmhouse, which hosts la Fondation Folon . It is a serene monument house designed by the same architect who designed the St-Hubert Galleries , J.P. Cluysenaar, and which is dedicated to Jean-Michel Folon’s impressive art legacy.

brussels weekend trip

By Camilla Colavolpe

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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11 things to know before visiting Brussels

Mélissa Monaco

May 18, 2023 • 6 min read

brussels weekend trip

All the tips and tricks you need for Brussels from a local in the know © Somyot Techapuwapat / Getty Images

It's been my honor and pleasure to call Brussels home for many years – the Belgian capital is a vibrant European hub that welcomes millions of visitors every year with open arms. 

However, there are some insider tips about Belgian culture, and Brussels in particular, that will make your trip go a little more smoothly. Before you throw yourself gleefully into the chocolate and beer, let me share some of my favorite local advice for new visitors to Brussels.

1. There are two Brussels and yes, it's confusing

Brussels is a city but also a region. There’s the city of Brussels proper and then 18 other towns (such as Ixelles, Anderlecht, Schaerbeek, Saint-Gilles or Molenbeek) that form the Brussels Capital Region, a component of the Belgium federal state. Each has its own mayor and regulations. Locals will use the term “Brussels” indiscriminately when talking about either the city or the region – if you're at all confused, just ask them to clarify.

2. Double check your airport

Two airports bear the name of Brussels: Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi. Brussels Airport is the older and larger one. Located in Zaventem, it’s about 20 minutes away from the city center by train. Brussels South is in Charleroi, about an hour's drive from Brussels, and it’s Belgium’s major hub for low-cost carriers.

It's pretty common for travelers to mix up the two airports, taking a train or a shuttle to the wrong one and missing their flight. When in doubt, check your booking: the IATA code for Brussels Airport is BRU and CRL is for Brussels South.

A traffic jam in a central street of Brussels

3. Ditch the car

Though the advent of remote working improved things a little, traffic is still a nightmare in Brussels – the city is in the top 15 of the most congested urban areas in Europe . Locals frequently bemoan the lack of parking spaces and the cost of garages (€22 for 1 day).

Brussels is also a Low Emission Zone, which means older vehicles are not allowed in. Getting a pass to enter the LEZ is mandatory and free. If you have to bring your vehicle, you can check if you can use it and register it on the LEZ Brussels Website .

However, the city center is very walkable and the public transport system is efficient. If you have to travel by car, a good compromise is to leave your car at a Park and Ride location . Parking is free and they are all next to a metro station – you’ll be at the Grand Place in no time!

4. Use the metro, trams and buses to explore the city

The STIB/MIVB runs almost all of the public transport in Brussels and it’s easy to get across the city, although the further from the center you go, the more difficult it gets. You’ll find ticket vending machines in the metro and main tram or bus stations. If you only need a single-ride ticket, contactless payment is available. Look for the gray validator as you enter a station or a vehicle, tap your card or your smartphone, and you’re on your way.

Most of the tourist attractions (except the Atomium ) are within a small area and can be explored on foot, so you won't really need a day pass unless you decide to visit different neighborhoods on the same day.

5. The train is a great option for getting around

One of Brussels’ best-hidden secrets is using the overground train to get around the city. With 35 train stations, it can often be faster than taking the tram or bus, especially to remote corners. However, you'll need to purchase a ticket before you board. Interestingly, the STIB/MIVB route planner doesn't account for this alternative very well, so it's best to rely on Google Maps instead.

The Grand Place in Brussels in the evening with hardly anyone around

6. Don’t plan a museum trip or fancy dinner on a Monday

Monday is a day off for many professionals (hairdressers, bakers...) and that's also the case for museums and restaurants (the latter may also be closed on Tuesdays). A few will be open but if your travel plans are focused on culture and/or gastronomy, it is better to be in Brussels during the second half of the week to have more options.

7. Everything is bilingual in Brussels

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is officially bilingual. Everything, from road signs to advertisements, train announcements, street names and information boards is in French and Dutch, Belgium’s two main national languages (German is the third). It can be confusing if you’re not used to it. For instance, the station of Bruxelles-Midi (in French) is Brussel-Zuid (in Dutch).

My tip is: pick a language you’re more comfortable with and stick to it. Just bear in mind the two denominations for the most important places such as train stations – I’ve seen too many visitors missing their stops because of that!

On the plus side, Brussels is a multicultural city, and you should get by easily speaking English during your daily activities. It's unlikely anyone will get offended if you use it rather than one of the national languages.

8. Keep some change for the toilets

“ Madame / Monsieur Pipi ” as they are known locally, are a fixture of fast-food restaurants, stations, clubs, malls and even cinemas. They are the toilet attendants and hold the essential job of cleaning before and after you use the facilities.

You’ll find them chatting with customers, reading, knitting and doing crosswords in between rounds of cleaning. Their service is not paid for by the establishment, so you'll need to pay a small fee to use the bathroom. About 0.50 to €1 is customary, so keep some loose change in your wallet as they almost exclusively take cash. A smile and a thank you are also appreciated.

High-angle view of a wet street and two people walking with umbrellas in Brussels

9. Always carry an umbrella or a raincoat

You’ve checked the forecast and it seems like the weather’s going to be fine during your stay in Brussels...don’t trust it. The weather here is particularly fickle and if Belgium is known for anything (apart from beer, chocolate and fries), it's rain, from an annoying little drizzle to a heavy downpour.

No Belgian would be caught dead without a retractable umbrella or raincoat in their bag “just in case”. Follow their lead and feel suitably smug when that unexpected shower begins to fall.

10. Kiss, handshake or hug?

Ah, that awkward moment! You’re in a foreign country and introductions are made. What do you do? In Brussels, where French-speaking culture is dominant, you’ll see many people kissing each other hello on the cheek, even if they’re not acquainted. COVID-19 changed that a bit but la bise is making a comeback.

Flemish culture, on the other hand, is more reserved and they'll simply shake hands or just say “Hi” to acknowledge your presence. Go with a handshake if you're at all unsure.

Women and men drinking alcohol inside the old bar at Delirium in Brussels

11. Babies, children and dogs are often welcome in bars

This is baffling to many foreigners. In the afternoon, especially at the weekend, it’s not uncommon to see whole families at a bar, with the adults enjoying their beers while the baby is asleep in a stroller and the older kids are sipping on their soft drinks and playing games.

Cafés, pubs and bars are places to socialize and for Belgians, children should not be excluded from the experience, especially since smoking is not allowed indoors. Dogs are also part of the family and are welcome too – they’ll probably get a bowl of water. 

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4 Easy must-do weekend trips from Brussels

Weekend trips from Brussels

If you have decided to visit Brussels, you probably have a long list of things that you want to do and see. However, if you stay within Brussels itself, you might be missing out on some of the best activities that this part of the world can offer. If you have the time to head outside of Brussels for a couple of days, these weekend trips or day trips can be the right answer to enjoy unique experiences during your trip.

Weekend trips or Brussels day trips are so much easier to enjoy if you pack light. Avoid having to bring all of your things with you on your weekend getaway by visiting a Bounce luggage storage facility in Brussels before you leave.

All of the day trips on this list can be turned into longer weekend stays if you wish. From Christmas markets to World War I historical sites to town hall locations that are historic and beautiful, there is so much to do and see in this part of the world.

You can get in and out of Brussels easily using Brussels Central Station . You might also be planning to drive to these destinations. Make sure that you always check out the transit time to places of interest using the train or other forms of transportation if you want to avoid the use of your car. You also might not have a rental car or a good option to get one if you have come to the city on a budget.

Being able to take a little detour outside of Brussels is easier than you might think. Even if you didn't plan much in advance for these weekend trips, there are many great getaways located right by Brussels that you can enjoy. All of these lovely cities and towns will offer you access to historical sites, delicious food, and memorable experiences.

Weekend trip from Brussels to Tournai

Tournai is a lovely city in Belgium that is located in the province of Hainaut. This location is one of the larger cities in Belgium, and it is very close to the French border. Found on the banks of the Scheldt River, it offers you access to things like Roman ruins, ancient city walls, museums, and delicious dining options. Tournai is a must-see if you have any time to spare outside of Brussels and you love history.

Tournai distance to Brussels

The city center of Tournai is a little over an hour’s train ride from Brussels. If you have a car that you have rented, it will take you just a little under an hour to drive to Tournai.

Our activity recommendations

The first thing that we recommend that you see in Tournai is The Grand Place. This is the square at the center of Tournai, and it is a very unique, triangular plaza that is surrounded by Unesco World Heritage sites. The 17th-century Beffroi is located here, as well as the 12th-century Civic Tower.  You can also check out various historic buildings from the 1600s while you are in The Grand Place on your weekend trip.

Notre Dame is also located adjacent to The Grand Place, and this really is one of the most stunning and memorable things that you can visit when you are in Tournai. This is the most important historical monument in Belgium, and you will be amazed by the beauty of the building, as well as its various bell towers, the beautiful nave, and the Gothic architectural style that was used to build it.

For an amazing dining experience, be sure to drop in a La Petite Madeleine on the Rue de la Madeleine. This location will offer you access to beautifully simple plates that have been carefully curated by the chef. You can enjoy duck or lobster, or you might want to try the delicious grilled scallops here. There is also an extensive wine list and a delightful dessert menu to try out.

Locals will love Tournai if they want to make some time to enjoy museums and some sightseeing they might not have had time to do, and those from out of the country will have a wide array of amazing adventures to try out in this city. This is a very accessible day trip, but it can also be a good weekend getaway.

Best season to visit Tournai

Tournai enjoys a variable climate, just like the rest of Belgium. You will need to expect that wintertime visits to this part of the world will be quite cold. The ideal time to head to Tournai is late June to early September.

Weekend getaway to Bruges from Brussels

Brugge, also known as Bruges, is another medieval city that offers visitors a time-capsule-like experience. Located right along the water, you will be charmed by the crooked and leaning medieval houses, the delicious food offerings, and the beautiful windmills. This is one of the most charming places on this list of Brussels weekend trips, and you will love everything from the city centre to the old town area.

Brugge distance to Brussels

If you take the train, Brugge and Brussels are about an hour apart, which is great for a day trip. It will take you a little longer to drive, so you should plan for about an hour and 30 minutes of travel time in the car.

You will want to make sure that you take the time to hop into a boat and cruise the various canals that meander through Brugge during your day trip here. This city has a bit of the feeling that Venice can offer, and beautiful buildings are everywhere all along the waterways of the city. Boats leave the jetties of Bruges at regular intervals, and your boat captain will be happy to explain what you see as you float along.

The Belfry Tower is located right at the heart of Brugge in the city centre. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the bell tower itself dates back to the 15th century. You can actually climb the tower and listen to the bells as they ring if you have good timing. You will need to plan on the line to climb the tower being long during the middle of the day, so you should come first thing in the morning to be sure that you aren’t standing around for a while.

The Torture Museum is another really fun and quirky thing that you can see while you visit Bruges. The museum is eclectic and well-presented, and you will not be scared by the exhibits. There are also some great exhibits inside about the history of Brugge that you can take a gander at. This is an underground attraction, so if the weather is not great, this is a good choice for an activity that is really fun and is warm and dry.

Best season to visit Brugge

Brugge is actually really pleasant year-round, but the best time to visit for a day trip or weekend away is in the late spring and the summer. Shoulder season, which is May and September, can be a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

Ghent weekend trips from Brussels

Ghent is a fun little university town full of charming old buildings, street food, and places to shop. The architectural beauty here is without compare, and there are many fun guided tours of the city which can make it easy to learn more about Ghent and see all the best parts of the town.

Ghent distance to Brussels

Ghent is only about an hour’s drive from Brussels, and if you take the train, you should be there in about 35 minutes. Getting train tickets for this trip is obviously your best bet.

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and the Mystical Lamb are attractions that you should not miss out on when you head to Ghent. This is one of the oldest Parish churches in Ghent, and the site itself dates back to the 10th century. There is a Rubens on display here, although the provenance of the work is a bit in question, as well as the Mystic Lamb itself. The Lamb is a symbol of Christ’s death, and it is the center of the altarpiece in the cathedral.

It seems like there is no shortage of amazingly beautiful bell towers to see in Belgium, and the Belfort Tower of Ghent is one of them. You will want to make sure to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site and get some pictures. If the tower is open for you to climb, be sure to get to the top and check out the amazing views of the old town. Nature lovers will love the beauty of the scenery from the height of the tower as well.

If you love quirky things to see and do on a weekend getaway, head to Werregarenstraatje, the Street of Graffiti. This is a common inclusion in walking tours of the city, but you can also choose to head here on your own to see the artwork, which changes daily. A weekend or day trip is the perfect excuse to see something unique like this, even if you have to skip over the fine arts tour.

Best season to visit Ghent

April is the best time to head to Ghent because it can be quite hot in the summer. You will find that spring is overall a good season to see this lovely town, and since there is so much to see on foot, being able to avoid the heat is a good idea.

Weekend getaway to Leuven from Brussels

Leuven is a hop and a skip from Brussels, and it can be reached easily, even with limited planning. There is shopping, art, history, and more to enjoy here. You probably could fill up more than a few days in Leuven because there is so much to see and do in this lovely city. This is one of the day trip options on this list, but you really could consider extending your stay.

Leuven distance to Brussels

The city center of Leuven is about half an hour from Brussels, whether by car or train. This makes it an easy choice for a day trip as well as a weekend getaway.

Be sure to head over to the Stadhuis or Leuven City Hall. This Gothic building was built in 1439, and it took 30 years to complete. The lovely turrets, flags, and towers of this building will take your breath away. There are also more than 230 statues on the façade of the building. This piece of art actually survived World War II, despite a bomb falling on it.

If you love shopping, the shops on Diestsestraat or the Bondgenotenlaan will delight you. This is a great place to look at local wares, visit designer-brand stores, or even get tea and snacks while you look around. There are also many markets that pop up here during the week where you can wander and see what the locals have made.

For those who love a creative dining experience, you will want to drop by Oude Market , known as the longest bar in Europe. This is actually a square that is lined with tables and chairs from many different restaurants along the edges of the street. You will be able to enjoy live music, affordable drinks, and really good food here.

Best season to visit Leuven

The weather in Leuven is best from May to August. You can also visit in September to avoid the crowds during the high season, but it might be a bit colder at this time of the year.

Best weekend getaways from Brussels

There are many ways that you can plan a weekend getaway outside of Brussels. You don’t have to head out for a few days if you just can’t fit that kind of trip into your plans. Even the best day trips from Brussels will let you explore more of this fascinating country. If you only have three days to spend in Brussels, you'll probably want to focus on the capital city itself, but that just means that you'll need to plan a return trip to the area.

Brussels is close to so many really fun adventures and places of interest. Whether you want to turn these suggestions for day trips into a weekend away, or you just want to pop into the old town for a day and then head back to the train station, you can have a great time at any of these Medieval town locations.

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IMAGES

  1. How to spend a weekend in Brussels

    brussels weekend trip

  2. Brussels travel tips: Where to go and what to see in 48 hours

    brussels weekend trip

  3. 2-Day Brussels Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend in Brussels

    brussels weekend trip

  4. 11 Very Best Things To Do In Brussels

    brussels weekend trip

  5. Brussels Travel Guide

    brussels weekend trip

  6. Visit Brussels on a trip to Belgium

    brussels weekend trip

COMMENTS

  1. The PERFECT Weekend in Brussels (2024 Guide)

    Weekend in Brussels - INSIDER GUIDE (2024) A weekend in Brussels is the perfect amount of time to experience the beauty and rich culture of this city. With just 36 hours in Brussels, you can easily see all of the major sights, as well as find enough time to eat plenty of Belgian waffles and fries! Brussels is one of the most stunning European ...

  2. 2-Day Brussels Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend in Brussels

    Brussels in 3 days. If you have 3 days in Brussels, follow my 2-day Brussels itinerary. On day three, take the bus or train to visit the Atomium and Mini-Europe. The Atomium was constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Fair. Visitors can enter the giant atom-shaped structure and view exhibits inside.

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Brussels

    Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. Wander through the Les Galeries Saint Hubert, a gorgeous glass roofed arcade in the center of Brussels. Lined with cafes, theaters and luxury stores, the Les Galeries Saint Hubert also has the distinction of being the first covered shopping arcade in Europe. 3.

  4. BRUSSELS Itinerary (How to Spend 3 Days in 2024)

    3-Day Brussels Itinerary Overview. Day 1: The Grand Place | Brussels City Museum | Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | Mont Des Arts | Mannekin Pis | Choco Story | Brussels Beer Tour. Day 2: Atomium | Mini Europe | Musical Instruments Museum | Royal Palace of Brussels | Museum of Fine Arts | Notre Dame Du Sablon.

  5. 2 Days in Brussels, Belgium: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

    Alongside your weekend in Brussels itinerary, Belgium's capital city is also the perfect base with which to explore the rest of the country. Trains between cities are fast, reliable and cheap. A trip to popular Bruges from Brussels takes less than an hour, as does a trip to the diamond district of Antwerp, and a trip to historic Ghent takes ...

  6. How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Brussels

    Here is a weekend guide to Brussels Belgium with all the top things to do in Brussels, including the most useful tips that will help you plan your perfect itinerary. Belgium's capital, the City of Brussels, is without a doubt one ... A highlight of my recent trip to Brussels was a visit to the Horta Museum which is the former home and studio of ...

  7. 2 days in Brussels Itinerary: How to spend a weekend in Brussels

    Grand Place: 2 day itinerary Brussels. You will save approximately €39 if you opt for the 48 hours Brussels Card (£60.5). If you are under 26, buy a Go Pass 1 for trips on the Belgian train system. At €6.4 it allows you to travel anywhere in the country at a ridiculously low price.

  8. 11 Best Things To Do In Brussels

    The Grand Place is a must visit when doing Brussels in a weekend. 2. Manneken Pis. Just down the lane from Grand Place stands the most famous little dude in Brussels. Translated from Flemish to 'peeing boy', Manneken Pis is a small bronze sculpture of a naked boy urinating into a fountain.

  9. What to do in Brussels on a Weekend Trip

    The Grand Place & Manneke Pis. The Grand Place in the heart of Brussels is absolutely stunning. It is surrounded by guild houses, the City Hall and the Maison du Roi. All year round, different events take place here, like the Christmas market, the floral carpet, the beer festival, and many more. Manneke Pis (a statue of a peeing little boy) is ...

  10. An expert guide to a weekend in Brussels

    How to spend an eccentric weekend in Brussels. An insider guide to 48 hours in one of Europe's quirkiest capital cities, from surreal art to the sublime dining. Antony Mason, Destination expert 20 ...

  11. Your guide for a perfect weekend in Brussels

    1.7 Waffles. 1.8 Comic walls of Brussels. 1.9 Marché aux Poissons / Saint Catherine. 1.10 Craft beer or Cocktails. 2 Sunday in Brussels. 2.1 Breakfast at the market in Saint Gilles. 2.2 Halle Gate. 2.3 Browse secondhand goods at the Marolles Flea Market. 2.4 Galerie Bortier.

  12. How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in Brussels

    How to Get There. Brussels is centrally located and accessible via train from all over Western Europe (for reference, it's only 1 hour and 22 minutes from Paris), which makes it an ideal weekend destination. It's also home to the largest airport in Belgium, with many direct international flights from the United States.

  13. Weekend in Brussels: Local's Tips + Map + Foodie Hotspots

    London to Brussels for a weekend: Travel time approx 2h two-way ticket prices range from €87 ($95) to €250 ($273) depending on how far in advance you book. Paris to Brussels weekend: Travel time approx 1h30, two-way ticket prices range from €60 ($65) to €300 ($330). Booking in advance is essential for this route.

  14. 2 Days in Brussels: The Perfect Brussels Itinerary

    The three are Bruxelles-Midi / Brussel Zuid, Bruxelles Central / Brussel Centraal, and Bruxelles Nord / Brussel Noord. When flying into Brussels Airport - Zaventem, a train from the airport to one of these is the best and simplest way to get into the city. As for getting around Brussels, the city is connected by metro lines, buses, and trams.

  15. The Ultimate Brussels, Belgium Weekend Guide

    The Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are a major highlight of any springtime trip to Brussels. (Photo: Getty Images) To round off your weekend in more bucolic surroundings, there are easy woodland walks — as well as a picturesque former abbey — in the Bois de La Cambre, at the southern tip of Ixelles. This was once a royal hunting ground and is ...

  16. How to spend a perfect weekend in Brussels?

    For the weekend there are also special rates that make traveling by train more interesting than by car. In cities public parking is often very expensive. If you still prefer to travel to Brussels by car, then choose a hotel with parking. Or park on the outskirts of the city and travel there by metro to the city centre.

  17. Twenty-four hours in Brussels: an easy weekend trip from London

    For me, Brussels was an ideal weekend trip; it was a lovely city, but there wasn't that much to do there, so it was perfect for one day and one night of exploring. Had I been staying longer, I could have visited some of the other museums, and checked out the Atomium , a strange scientific-shaped building, now a museum, which is another ...

  18. Brussels city breaks and holidays

    A great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at 1hr 53mins from London. Read more - Christmas market in Brussels . Brussels landmarks and attractions. ... the season isn't the only one worth a trip to Brussels. The city's reputation for rainy weather isn't entirely without merit, but Brussels has wholeheartedly embraced the ...

  19. Weekend in Belgium: A Guide to Brussels, Bruges + Ghent

    Purchase round-trip tickets online or at the station for less than €20. These three cities provide a good taste of Belgian culture, cuisine, architecture, and more in just one weekend. Brussels is the country's biggest and capital city, as well as the seat of power of the European Union.

  20. Quick Great Escapes From Brussels

    Quick Great Escapes From Brussels. Prinsenhof | Courtesy of Visit Ghent. camilla colavolpe 27 December 2022. As the center of Europe, Brussels and its intriguing cultural scene strikes an optimal balance between national and international influences. But no matter if you find yourself here for one weekend, six months or a number of years: if ...

  21. 11 things to know before going to Brussels

    Locals will use the term "Brussels" indiscriminately when talking about either the city or the region - if you're at all confused, just ask them to clarify. 2. Double check your airport. Two airports bear the name of Brussels: Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi. Brussels Airport is the older and larger one.

  22. 4 Easy must-do weekend trips from Brussels

    This is one of the most charming places on this list of Brussels weekend trips, and you will love everything from the city centre to the old town area. Brugge distance to Brussels. If you take the train, Brugge and Brussels are about an hour apart, which is great for a day trip. It will take you a little longer to drive, so you should plan for ...

  23. Lufthansa Warns Latest Two-Day Strike Will Hit 200,000 Travelers

    Deutsche Lufthansa AG expects the latest two-day strike by ground crews to disrupt travel for more than 200,000 passengers, putting pressure on the German airline to negotiate a deal.