Brussels, Belgium 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Historic Brussels

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Belgian breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, situated in the Grand Place.
  • Visit the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the stunning Gothic architecture. Don’t forget to take a picture of the Town Hall!
  • Explore the Musee de la Ville de Bruxelles (City Museum) to learn about Brussels’ history and culture.

Afternoon:

  • Take a short walk to the Manneken Pis, one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks.
  • Visit the Atomium, a symbol of the 1958 World Expo, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from its spheres. (You can reach the Atomium by metro.)

Evening:

  • Dine at Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering traditional Belgian cuisine.
  • Stroll around the bohemian district of Saint-Gilles and enjoy its vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Modern Brussels and Art Lovers’ Delight

Morning:

  • For a unique experience, visit The Belgian Comic Strip Center in the Schaerbeek district to learn about the country’s beloved comic book culture.
  • Head to the European Quarter and visit the European Parliament. You can take a guided tour or simply enjoy the architecture.

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, home to works by Rubens, Magritte, and Van Dyck.
  • Explore the contemporary art scene at BOZAR, Centre for Fine Arts, which hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year.

Evening:

  • Dine at Au Beurre Noir, a restaurant offering modern Belgian cuisine with a twist.
  • End your day by visiting the Place Flagey and enjoying its lively atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Belgian chocolate, waffles, and beer are must-tries!
  • Brussels is famous for its street art, especially around the European Quarter and Saint-Gilles district.
  • Belgian people generally speak Dutch, French, and English.

Transportation:

  • Brussels has an extensive public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and metros. A one-day ticket costs €7.50 (as of 2021).

Tips:

  • Always carry small change for trams and buses as drivers don’t usually have coins.
  • Brussels is known for its rainy weather, so pack accordingly!

Enjoy your trip to Brussels! Don’t forget to try some Belgian fries with mayonnaise, a local favorite!