Welcome to Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and world-renowned cuisine. If you only have one day to spend in this charming city, don’t worry. This guide will take you through the best places to visit, ensuring you make the most of your short break in Brussels.
The city of Brussels was founded around the year 979 A.D. with a history closely linked to that of Western Europe. It boasts traces of human settlement as far back as the Stone Ages and has been a lynchpin in the growth of the modern world around it. The capital city is officially bilingual in French and Dutch (which is always impressive to Americans) and, in our opinion, a great starting point for visiting the rest of Europe. While many travelers may argue that point, given London, Rome and Paris’ popularity, the Belgian capital is much less chaotic and less expensive than other European capitals.
From iconic landmarks to tasty treats, we’ve got a wonderful list of places to explore on a Brussels day trip. Let’s dive into the heart of Brussels, one of our favorite European cities.
First Stop: Grand Place (Grote Markt)
Your day trip in Brussels should begin at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the central square of the city. The Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is a magnificent ensemble of Gothic and Baroque architecture, surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the Town Hall (Hotel de Ville), and the King’s House (Maison du Roi), which now houses the Brussels City Museum. The stunning architecture and the vibrant atmosphere make it the perfect starting point for your day.
Best Time to Visit: Early Morning
Arrive early to enjoy the square before the crowds gather. The morning light adds a magical touch to the ornate façades, making it ideal for photography. Grab a coffee from a nearby café (or Starbucks if you really need to) and take a moment to soak in the grandeur of this historical site. It also helps that this city centre puts you in walking distance of so many other stops, which is key if you have a short amount of time.
Next Stop: Manneken Pis – The Iconic Little Boy
A short walk from the Grand Place, you’ll find one of Brussels’ most iconic statues, Manneken Pis. This small bronze statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain symbolizes the city’s irreverent sense of humor. Manneken Pis has a wardrobe of over 1,000 costumes, and if you’re lucky, you might catch him dressed up.
Worth Visiting: Absolutely!
Despite its small size, Manneken Pis is a must-see. The statue’s quirky charm and the surrounding legends make it a fun and interesting, and quick, stop on your Brussels itinerary. If you have extra time, research the history of the cheeky little statue and read about its history, many thefts and attempted thefts, and why the people in Belgium’s capital love it so much.
Also nearby is the Zinneke Pis, which is part of the trio of “urinating” statues (along with the Jeanneke Pis) that you can visit while in Central Brussels.
Mont des Arts: A Cultural Hub
The next stop on your Brussels walking tour is the Mont des Arts, a beautifully landscaped area offering some of the best views of Brussels. A small downtown area on a hill, this cultural hub is home to several museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, which boasts an impressive collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to the modern era.
Best Things to Do:
- Explore the Museums: If you have ample time, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts are worth a visit. The museums house masterpieces by artists like Bruegel, Rubens, and Magritte.
- Enjoy the Gardens: The terraced gardens at Mont des Arts are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The panoramic views of the city are breathtaking, especially on a clear day.
Belgian Waffles and Chocolate
No visit to Brussels is complete without indulging in some authentic Belgian waffles and chocolate. For a delicious treat, head to Maison Dandoy, a renowned bakery near the Grand Place (or visit any of their city-wide locations). Their waffles are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and come with a variety of toppings.
Another option, and one of my personal favorites, is Los Churros & Waffle, which is in the same area. They offer authentic Belgian waffles plus tasty churros and sweet toppings. It’s delicious and budget-friendly as well.
Belgian Chocolate Shops:
- Pierre Marcolini: For high-end chocolates, visit Pierre Marcolini. Their exquisite creations are delightful. They have several city locations.
- Neuhaus: Another excellent choice, Neuhaus offers a wide range of pralines and truffles. They have many locations in Brussels.
- Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier: We stopped here for chocolates straight off the train in the morning, and we weren’t disappointed.
Parc du Cinquantenaire: A Green Oasis
After satisfying your sweet tooth, take a scenic walk or, better yet, use the efficient public transportation system to reach Parc du Cinquantenaire. This expansive park is home to impressive arches, museums, and beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.
Main Attractions:
- The Triumphal Arch: Climb to the top for panoramic views of Brussels.
- Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History: Explore Belgium’s military history through extensive exhibits and displays.
Lunch Break: Belgian Food
For lunch, indulge in some traditional Belgian food. Head to a local brasserie and try moules frites (mussels with French fries), a classic Belgian dish. Pair it with a glass of Belgian beer, such as my personal favorite, Affligem, for the full experience.
Recommended Spots:
- Chez Léon: A popular choice for moules frites, located near the Grand Place.
- A La Mort Subite: This historic café offers a great selection of Belgian beers and delicious sandwiches.
- Affligem Cafe: If you are stuck around the city center or near the Grand Place, this little cafe is always a nice retreat. Plus, after a couple of beers, you can try to navigate the tiny steps downstairs to the dungeon-like bathrooms. Here’s the Google Maps address for reference: Bd Anspach 81, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
European Parliament: A Glimpse into the EU
In the afternoon, make your way to the European Quarter to visit the European Parliament. As the de facto capital of the European Union, Brussels plays a crucial role in European politics. The Parliamentarium, the visitors’ center of the European Parliament, offers interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that explain the workings of the EU. This is a must-do stop for history and political buffs who want to see the very-real seats of power that decide European policy. There’s no better way to work off a few beers than to visit Parliament.
Good Luck Tip:
Check the schedule for guided tours or plenary sessions, which can provide a deeper understanding of the EU’s operations.
Delirium Café: Beer Heaven
After you’ve had enough politics, it’s back to the beer! Belgian beer is famous worldwide, and there’s no better place to sample it than at Delirium Café. This iconic bar holds the Guinness World Record for the most varieties of beer commercially available, with over 2,000 different types. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, Delirium Café is a must-visit. If you’re lucky, and you’re in the right place and the right time, you’ll be there on one of the evenings with live music, which really completes the visit to Delirium. Be sure to grab some souvenir memorabilia before you leave!
Best Option:
- Beer Tasting: Try a beer flight to sample a variety of Belgian brews, from Trappist ales to fruity lambics.
Shopping at the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
A short walk from Delirium Café is the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade. With its elegant glass roof and luxurious boutiques, it’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, Belgian chocolates, and high-end fashion.
Don’t Miss:
- Chocolaterie Mary: For some of the best Belgian chocolates.
- Boutique Tintin: Perfect for comic strip enthusiasts, offering a range of Tintin memorabilia.
Mini Europe: A Tiny Tour of the Continent
If you have extra time in the late afternoon, head to Mini Europe, a miniature park located near the Atomium. This park features scaled-down models of famous European landmarks, providing a unique way to see the highlights of the continent in one place.
Great Way to Spend the Evening:
- Explore the Miniatures: Wander through the park and marvel at the detailed replicas of iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Dinner: Belgian Cuisine
For dinner, treat yourself to more Belgian cuisine. Consider dining at a traditional restaurant where you can enjoy dishes like carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef stew) or waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew).
Recommended Restaurants:
- Restaurant Vincent: Known for its delicious seafood and Belgian specialties.
- La Roue d’Or: A charming brasserie offering a variety of Belgian dishes.
Optional fun at Cantillon Brewery
End your day with a visit to Cantillon Brewery, a family-owned brewery that has been producing traditional lambic beers since 1900. Take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting of their unique sour beers.
Best Time to Visit:
Cantillon Brewery is open during the day, but check its closing hours to ensure you have enough time to visit before they close.
Final Thoughts: One Day in Brussels
Spending one day in Brussels can be a whirlwind adventure, but with careful planning, you can experience the city’s most iconic sights, flavors, and cultural offerings. From the grandeur of the Grand Place to the quirky charm of Manneken Pis, the rich history of the museums, and the delectable Belgian treats, this small country offers a memorable day trip that will leave you wanting to return.
Travel Tips:
Getting Around: Brussels’ public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and metros.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months of late July and August offer the best weather, but Brussels is charming year-round. For fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. We personally visited in February and were rewarded with cool weather and small crowds. It was perfect!
Atomium: The Atomium statue is out of the way and might be fun if you have more time. It was built for the 1958 World’s Fair (Expo 58) and does attract over 600,000 visitors each year. You can go inside and climb the steps to see a beautiful panoramic view of the city. We took the train, hopped out, grabbed some photos, then left. Maybe next time!
Brussels Airport: The city is easily accessible from Brussels Airport, with direct train connections to the city center. While we didn’t fly into Brussels, we did take a train from Paris first thing in the morning and returned on the last train of the evening to ensure we saw everything we wanted to see.
Whether you’re exploring the city on foot or taking advantage of the hop-on, hop-off bus, Brussels invites you to wander, taste, and discover. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, a day in Brussels is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Happy travels!
