Brussels, Belgium Trip

An itinerary for Brussels, Bruxelles-Capitale, Brussels Capital, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium Trip
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Destination: Brussels, Bruxelles-Capitale, Brussels Capital, Belgium

Author: Moo_The_Trotter

Updated:

Historic Heart of Brussels

  1. Grand-Place

    About: Historic central square with guildhalls

    Address: Grand-Place, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: square, historic

    Notes: Witness the stunning Gothic and Baroque guildhalls and the magnificent Town Hall, especially enchanting when illuminated at night. It's the beating heart of Brussels, perfect for people-watching.

  2. Manneken Pis

    About: Famous bronze statue of a peeing boy

    Address: Rue de l'Étuve 37, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: statue, landmark

    Notes: Don't miss this iconic small bronze sculpture, often dressed in various costumes, symbolizing the city's rebellious spirit and sense of humor. It's a quick, charming photo stop.

  3. Jeanneke Pis

    About: Manneken Pis's female counterpart

    Address: Impasse de la Fidélité 10-12, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: statue, landmark

    Notes: Discover the lesser-known but equally quirky female counterpart to Manneken Pis, tucked away in an alleyway, adding to Brussels' playful public art scene. It's a fun, hidden gem to seek out.

  4. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

    About: Historic shopping arcade with elegant architecture

    Address: Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: shopping arcade, landmark

    Notes: Stroll through this beautiful 19th-century shopping arcade with its glass roof and exquisite architecture, home to luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, and cafes. The natural light filtering through the glass is quite pleasant.

Museums & Culture

  1. Bourse de Bruxelles

    About: Former stock exchange building, now cultural hub

    Address: Beursplein 1, 1000 Brussel, Belgium

    Types: historic building, landmark

    Notes: This grand 19th-century Neo-Renaissance building, once the hub of Belgian finance, now hosts exhibitions and events after a recent renovation, often with a lively square outside.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/brussels-belgian-beer-world-ticket-with-rooftop-free-beer-t533926/?ranking_uuid=5d2d20ba-f1bf-4738-8515-25f90a8164f3

  2. Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

    About: Extensive collection of Belgian and European art

    Address: Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: museum, art_gallery

    Notes: Explore an extensive collection of fine arts, from Old Masters to modern art, including works by Rubens, Bruegel, and Magritte. Allow ample time to appreciate the diverse artistic periods.

  3. Magritte Museum

    About: Dedicated to the Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte

    Address: Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: museum, art

    Notes: Immerse yourself in the world of René Magritte, experiencing his iconic surrealist paintings and gaining insight into his unique artistic vision. The museum is located within the Royal Museums of Fine Arts complex.

  4. Musical Instruments Museum

    About: Showcases a vast collection of musical instruments

    Address: Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: museum, music

    Notes: Housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, this museum boasts an impressive collection of over 8,000 musical instruments from around the world. Don't forget to use the audio guide for a truly immersive auditory experience.

  5. Belgian Comic Strip Center

    About: Dedicated to Belgian comic strip art

    Address: Rue des Sables 20, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: museum, art

    Notes: Celebrate the rich history of Belgian comic strips, from Tintin to the Smurfs, housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta. It's a colorful and nostalgic journey for all ages.

  6. MOOF Museum

    About: Museum of original figurines from comic books and movies

    Address: Rue du Marché aux Herbes 116, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: museum, toys

    Notes: Delve into the world of pop culture with an impressive collection of original figurines from comics, movies, and cartoons, perfect for fans of all ages. This vibrant museum offers a delightful nostalgic trip.

Parks & Architecture

  1. Atomium

    About: Iconic landmark offering panoramic city views

    Address: Place de l'Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: landmark, museum

    Notes: Marvel at this futuristic structure, an iconic symbol of Brussels, and explore its exhibitions or enjoy panoramic views from its spheres. The shiny spheres are particularly striking on a clear day.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/brussels-combined-atomium-and-design-museum-ticket-t71219/?ranking_uuid=1bb96684-14cd-454a-a15f-4a57763e6038

  2. Parc du Cinquantenaire

    About: Triumphal arch and museums in a large park

    Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: park, museum

    Notes: Relax in this grand urban park, featuring a magnificent triumphal arch and home to several museums, including the Royal Military Museum and Autoworld. It's a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

  3. Mini-Europe

    About: Park with miniature European landmarks

    Address: Avenue du Football 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: theme_park, attraction

    Notes: Journey through Europe in a single day at this charming park featuring exquisitely detailed miniature models of famous landmarks from across the continent. It's a unique and fun experience for all ages.

  4. Palais de Justice de Bruxelles

    About: Massive 19th-century courthouse with impressive architecture

    Address: Place Poelaert 1, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: landmark, architecture

    Notes: Admire the sheer scale and ornate architecture of this enormous 19th-century courthouse, offering panoramic views of Brussels from its elevated position. The golden dome gleams strikingly in the sunlight.

Food & Local Delights

  1. Delirium Café

    About: Famous bar known for its vast selection of beers

    Address: Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: bar, pub

    Notes: Experience one of the world's largest beer selections at this lively and iconic bar, a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. The sheer variety of beers is truly impressive.

  2. Maison Dandoy

    About: Historic biscuit and waffle shop

    Address: Rue au Beurre 31, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: bakery, cafe

    Notes: Indulge in traditional Belgian biscuits, speculoos, and delicious waffles at this historic establishment, known for its authentic recipes and charming atmosphere. The aroma of freshly baked goods is delightful.

  3. Neuhaus Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

    About: Belgian chocolatier, inventor of the praline

    Address: Galerie de la Reine 25-27, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium

    Types: chocolate shop, sweet shop

    Notes: Taste exquisite Belgian chocolates from Neuhaus, the inventor of the praline, offering a luxurious and historic chocolate experience. Their wide selection makes for perfect souvenirs.

Day Trips from Brussels

  1. Bruges

    About: A picturesque medieval city, UNESCO World Heritage site

    Address: Bruges, Belgium

    Types: city, historic site

    Notes: Wander through the enchanting medieval streets, take a canal cruise, and admire the stunning architecture of this 'Venice of the North'. The Belfry offers fantastic panoramic views.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/from-brussels-guided-day-trip-to-bruges-and-ghent-t66951/?ranking_uuid=1680fa19-d1f1-4fa2-a97a-3f3a0658dac1

  2. Ghent

    About: Historic city with a vibrant cultural scene

    Address: Ghent, Belgium

    Types: city, historic site

    Notes: Explore the majestic Gravensteen castle, the impressive Saint Bavo's Cathedral, and enjoy the lively atmosphere along the Leie River in this beautiful historic city. Consider a boat trip for a different perspective.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/from-brussels-guided-day-trip-to-bruges-and-ghent-t66951/?ranking_uuid=1680fa19-d1f1-4fa2-a97a-3f3a0658dac1

  3. Antwerp

    About: Fashion capital, diamond center, and port city

    Address: Antwerp, Belgium

    Types: city, shopping

    Notes: Discover a city of contrasts with its historic center, trendy fashion district, and impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, home to Rubens' masterpieces. The train station itself is an architectural marvel.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/brussels-full-day-antwerp-and-ghent-guided-tour-t283267/?ranking_uuid=0cf81941-a98c-4791-9401-ac0ce3c7da13

  4. Leuven

    About: Historic university city with a beautiful town hall

    Address: Leuven, Belgium

    Types: city, university town

    Notes: Visit the stunning Gothic Town Hall, explore the Oude Markt (Old Market Square) with its numerous cafes, and soak in the youthful energy of this vibrant university city. The Grand Beguinage is a peaceful, historic haven.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/leuven-highlights-of-hidden-gem-20-min-drive-from-brussels-t506604/?ranking_uuid=d79d8e54-b9bb-488e-99ba-b59ec5685cc0

  5. Waterloo

    About: Site of the historic Battle of Waterloo

    Address: Waterloo, Belgium

    Types: historic site, battlefield

    Notes: Step back in time to the famous battlefield where Napoleon met his defeat, exploring the Lion's Mound, visitor's center, and museum. The panoramic view from the top of the mound is impressive.

    Affiliate URL: https://www.getyourguide.com/en-gb/brussels-l8/leuven-highlights-of-hidden-gem-20-min-drive-from-brussels-t506604/?ranking_uuid=d79d8e54-b9bb-488e-99ba-b59ec5685cc0