Spend 2 Days in Brussels

Planning to discover the center of Europe? With simply 2 days in Brussels, you may expertise its wealthy historical past, dynamic structure, scrumptious consolation meals, and creative attraction. This information highlights must-visit landmarks, cultural hotspots, and scrumptious treats whereas providing sensible tricks to maximize your brief keep in Belgium’s capital.

Why Go to Brussels?

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union, is understood for its mix of historic grandeur and fashionable vibrancy. It boasts beautiful structure, world-renowned candies, indulgent waffles, and among the greatest fries you’ll ever style.

Dwelling to the enduring Grand Place, the charming Manneken Pis, and a thriving comedian guide tradition, Brussels can also be a hub for European politics, with establishments just like the European Parliament shaping world affairs. Brussels has one thing for each traveler, whether or not you’re drawn to its artwork scene, wealthy historical past, or connoisseur delights.

One in all Brussels’s most fascinating points is its architectural variety. Successive waves of Baroque, Classical, Artwork Nouveau, Artwork Deco, and Modernist types have formed the cityscape, making it a visually fascinating vacation spot. You may like to affix this  3-Hour Guided Artwork Nouveau Tour to be taught extra about its origins and growth.

Not like some European capitals favoring a single aesthetic, Brussels embraces contrasts, mixing grand historic landmarks with modern designs. It’s a metropolis of many architectural layers. 

Within the late nineteenth century, Brussels grew to become a hub of the Artwork Nouveau motion, with grasp artisans crafting ornamental houses and public buildings that stay among the most beautiful on this planet. These architectural treasures have been lovingly restored, reflecting the town’s deep appreciation for its heritage. The Atomium, which is without doubt one of the metropolis’s most unusual landmarks, is a testomony to Brussels’ willingness to experiment with futuristic design.

Getting from Brussels Airport to the Metropolis Middle

Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is the primary worldwide gateway to the town, and there are a number of handy methods to succeed in the town heart:

• Practice: The quickest and most handy possibility is the Brussels Airport Categorical practice, which departs each quarter-hour from the airport’s railway station (positioned beneath the terminal). The journey to Brussels Central Station takes about 20 minutes.
• Bus: The Airport Line (Bus 12) connects the airport to the European Quarter, with stops close to main landmarks. Bus 21 runs within the evenings and on weekends to entry the town heart.
• Taxi: A taxi from the airport to the town heart prices roughly €50 and takes round half-hour, relying on site visitors. You possibly can pre-book your non-public switch with Welcome Pickups.
• Journey-Sharing & Personal Transfers: Companies like Uber and Bolt function in Brussels, providing a handy different to taxis.

How To Spend 2 Days in Brussels: My Itinerary

Day 1 in Brussels: Historic Landmarks and Belgian Delicacies

I arrived in Brussels on a Monday morning after a weekend in Bruges, excited to reunite with my pricey good friend visiting from the U.S. We checked into OPO Resort, a superb alternative for its unbeatable location, steps from Grand Place and throughout from the Bourse Brussels (Inventory Trade Constructing). The Bourse Brussels additionally homes the Belgian Beer World Expertise.

To benefit from your go to you may prefer to purchase the Brussels card which provides you free entry to 49 of Brussels’ museums, together with all highlights.

Grand Place – A UNESCO-listed Surprise

Our first cease was the enduring Grand Place, probably the most breathtaking squares in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage website is surrounded by beautiful guildhalls, the City Corridor, and the opulent Maison du Roi (King’s Home), which homes the Museum of the Metropolis of Brussels. The intricate Baroque and Gothic facades make it a must-see, particularly when bathed in golden daylight.

However the grandeur of Grand Place is extra than simply its visible splendor. Relationship again to the 14th century, it was the center of medieval Brussels, thriving as a middle for commerce and commerce. Retailers and artisans established guilds, forming 9 “nations” that introduced collectively associated trades. Every group had a Guild Home, and lots of nonetheless stand proudly on the sq. immediately, providing a glimpse into Brussels’ financial and social historical past.

Take a second to lookup on the ornate facades. The guild homes characteristic intricate carvings, golden particulars, and sculptures that symbolized the trades they represented. From the Home of the Brewers to the Home of the Bakers, these architectural gems inform the story of Brussels’ thriving artisan tradition.

The extravagance of those buildings testifies to the satisfaction and craftsmanship of the guild members, making Grand Place an architectural marvel and a dwelling piece of historical past. You may desire to affix this 2.5 hour Metropolis Highlights Strolling and Tasting Tour.

Parlamentarium – A Glimpse into European Politics

We visited on a Monday, when it opened at 1:00 PM, however on different days, it opens earlier, so verify the schedule earlier than you go.

Inside, you’ll discover a 360° cinema, interactive displays in all 24 EU languages, and even a role-playing sport the place you may step into the footwear of an MEP and expertise how EU legal guidelines are made.

However do you know that Brussels is taken into account the headquarters of the European Union? It’s house to a lot of the EU’s key establishments, together with the European Fee, the European Council, and the European Parliament’s foremost workplace. 

Nonetheless, the EU operates throughout three cities: Brussels, the political and decision-making heart; Luxembourg, the executive hub, house to key workplaces and the European Courtroom of Justice; and Strasbourg, the official seat of the European Parliament, the place MEPs collect month-to-month for debates and voting classes.

Entry to the Parlamentarium is free; audio-guided excursions final about 90 minutes. It’s fascinating to know how selections made right here form hundreds of thousands of lives throughout Europe.

Royal Palace & Parc de Bruxelles

From there, we strolled in direction of Parc de Bruxelles, a good looking inexperienced area excellent for a leisurely stroll. Going through the park is the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian royal household. Whereas it isn’t open for public excursions throughout winter, its grand neoclassical structure continues to be value admiring from the skin.

What makes the Royal Palace of Brussels particular is its symbolic function reasonably than its being a everlasting royal residence. Not like different European palaces, the Belgian monarchy resides in Laeken Palace, whereas the Royal Palace serves because the King’s administrative headquarters. It’s used for state capabilities, diplomatic receptions, and official ceremonies.

Through the summer season months, guests can tour its opulent inside, which options breathtaking chandeliers, lavishly embellished halls, and the famend Mirror Room, whose ceiling is roofed in iridescent beetle-wing shells, making a mesmerizing impact. Even when closed, the palace stays a shocking sight and an essential historic and cultural emblem of Belgium.

Place Royale – A Historic Sq. with Royal Ties

Earlier than reaching Mont des Arts, we handed via Place Royale, a grand neoclassical sq. with deep historic significance in Brussels.

Constructed within the late 18th century on the ruins of the former Coudenberg Palace, which was destroyed by fireplace, Place Royale has been a focus for royal and state occasions for hundreds of years. The symmetrical design and stately buildings surrounding the sq. mirror the affect of the Austrian Netherlands’ rule, bringing a way of order and status to the realm.

On the coronary heart of the sq. stands the equestrian statue of Godfrey of Bouillon, a pacesetter of the First Campaign and a key determine in Belgian historical past. The sq. is flanked by notable landmarks, together with the Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, a putting neoclassical church that has witnessed the coronation of Belgian kings. Place Royale can also be a gateway to among the metropolis’s most essential museums, making it a necessary cease for historical past and artwork lovers.

Mont des Arts – Cultural Hub with Beautiful Metropolis View

Persevering with our stroll, we handed Place Royale and arrived at Mont des Arts, or ‘Hill of the Arts,’ a distinguished cultural complicated within the coronary heart of Brussels. Initially developed for the 1910 Brussels Worldwide Exposition, the location was later redesigned right into a fantastically landscaped city area, making it one of many metropolis’s most picturesque places.

Mont des Arts provides beautiful panoramic views of Brussels, particularly at sundown when the skyline lights up with golden hues. From right here, you may also see the well-known city corridor tower positioned in the Grand Place. The world is house to a number of of the town’s most essential cultural establishments, together with:

The Royal Library of Belgium – A prestigious nationwide library housing hundreds of thousands of historic texts and manuscripts.

The Magritte Museum is devoted to the surrealist works of Belgian artist René Magritte. For those who look carefully, you will note a inexperienced apple on the museum’s roof. It was positioned there to rejoice the world-famous artist’s one hundred and twenty fifth birthday. 

The Brussels Congress Palace – A key venue for political and cultural occasions.

The Musical Devices Museum (MIM) – A paradise for music lovers, housing over 8,000 devices. You possibly can buy the Musical Devices Museum Entry Ticket right here.

Go to the Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral

Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral is a shocking instance of Gothic structure, relationship again to the thirteenth century. With its towering twin spires, intricate stained glass home windows, and wealthy historical past, it serves as the town’s religious and cultural landmark. The cathedral has witnessed royal ceremonies and continues to be a spot of worship and admiration for guests.

Brussels can also be a part of the well-known Camino de Santiago, marked by Camino shells embedded within the metropolis’s streets. These golden shells information modern-day pilgrims alongside the historic route, connecting Belgium to the legendary pilgrimage resulting in Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Dinner at Aux Armes de Bruxelles

For dinner, we made a reservation on the Aux Armes de Bruxelles, a historic brasserie relationship again to 1921.

The restaurant is understood for serving basic Belgian dishes like mussels and frites in a chic setting. The restaurant is really helpful within the Michelin Information and has a good looking, refined ambiance. We ordered scrumptious fois gras and their well-known Trio of Belgian specialties, which included beef carbonnade, rooster vol au vent, and meatballs in tomato sauce. We additionally tried their mussels cooked in white wine sauce accompanied by fries.

Alternatively, you may also head to Atonomium.

Atomium: One in all Brussels’ most iconic landmarks

The Atomium is a putting architectural masterpiece that stands 102 meters tall and is designed to resemble an iron crystal magnified 165 billion instances. Initially constructed for the 1958 Brussels World’s Truthful (Expo 58), this futuristic construction consists of 9 interconnected stainless-steel spheres, symbolizing scientific progress and human ingenuity.

Situated roughly 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the town heart, the Atomium is definitely accessible by way of metro (Heysel station) in about 7 minutes on foot. For those who use public transport, the journey will take roughly 50 minutes. Since that is one in every of Brussels’s most visited landmarks, I like to recommend shopping for your tickets on-line upfront. Get your Atomium Entry Ticket with Design Museum Ticket right here.

Guests can discover its exhibition areas and panoramic viewpoints and even dine on the Atomium Restaurant within the high sphere. This restaurant provides a shocking 360-degree view of Brussels alongside refined Belgian delicacies and a seasonal menu.

Watch my journey vlog video from Day 1 on YouTube

Day 2 in Brussels: Artwork, Meals, Comics and Quirky Landmarks

Our second day in Brussels started with a pleasant breakfast overlooking Grand Place. The morning solar lit up the historic sq., making it a magical expertise. From there, we headed in direction of the Royal Quarter.

Royal Museums of Advantageous Arts

Our first cease was the Royal Museums of Advantageous Arts of Belgium, one of many nation’s most prestigious artwork establishments.

This huge museum complicated is house to over 20,000 artworks from the fifteenth century to modern instances, providing a deep dive into Belgium’s creative heritage. It consists of a number of museums devoted to a selected creative interval or type. We opted for the Previous Masters Museums, however in case you have extra time, you may also go to the opposite collections.

The Previous Masters Museum—This part Showcases works by Flemish Primitives, Peter Paul Rubens, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Anthony van Dyck. It’s a must-visit for lovers of Renaissance and Baroque artwork. Highlights embrace Bruegel’s masterpiece, The Fall of the Insurgent Angels, and Rubens’s dynamic non secular work.

The Magritte Museum – This part is devoted to the works of René Magritte, the world-famous surrealist artist recognized for his thought-provoking and dreamlike work. You possibly can discover over 200 items, together with work, drawings, and private letters that present perception into Magritte’s fascinating thoughts.

The Fin-de-Siècle Museum—Focusing on nineteenth—and early Twentieth-century artwork, this museum showcases Belgium’s cultural transformation via Symbolism, Impressionism, and artwork nouveau. Among the many highlights are works by James Ensor, Fernand Khnopff, and Théo van Rysselberghe.

The Trendy Museum—This museum part options modern artworks, together with experimental and avant-garde items from the Twentieth and twenty first centuries.

The Wiertz Museum & Meunier Museum – These smaller however equally fascinating museums give attention to the works of Antoine Wiertz, a Romantic painter with grand historic compositions, and Constantin Meunier, recognized for his lifelike depictions of commercial laborers and working-class life.

Belgian Waffles – A Candy Should-Strive

No journey to Brussels is full with out indulging in Belgian waffles, a beloved deal with recognized for its crisp exterior and fluffy inside. However how did these scrumptious waffles develop into so well-known worldwide?

Belgian waffles first gained worldwide recognition on the 1964 New York World’s Truthful, when a Belgian named Maurice Vermersch launched them to American audiences. Initially known as the “Brussels Waffle,” Vermersch and his household determined to simplify the identify to “Belgian Waffle,” making it extra accessible to fairgoers. Served with powdered sugar, recent strawberries, or whipped cream, these waffles rapidly grew to become a sensation, spreading throughout the globe. You may additionally like this in style small-group tour. Guide your Historic Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting right here.

In Brussels, you’ll discover numerous locations to attempt these well-known waffles. From small street-side vans to devoted waffle outlets, choices are plentiful. A few of the hottest spots embrace Maison Dandoy, recognized for its conventional recipe, and Le Funambule, positioned close to Manneken Pis, the place you may customise your waffle with varied toppings. We tried the Belgian Waffles (Rue du Marché aux Poulets 51), which is steps away from the Grand Place and has a superb ranking.

Whether or not you like your waffle plain or loaded with chocolate and fruit, tasting a freshly made Belgian waffle is crucial to the Brussels expertise.

Brussels – A World Comics Capital & Road Artwork Haven

Brussels is also known as the comedian guide capital of the world, a title nicely deserved resulting from its wealthy legacy within the Ninth Artwork, the time period used for comics in Belgium. The nation has produced among the world’s most beloved comedian guide characters, together with Tintin, The Smurfs, Fortunate Luke, and Spirou.

Comics grew to become important to Belgian tradition within the Twentieth century, with artists like Hergé, Peyo, and André Franquin revolutionizing the style via detailed storytelling and creative improvements. Right this moment, comics stay a significant a part of Belgian identification, influencing generations of artists and storytellers.

Past museums, Brussels’s streets are an open-air comedian gallery, with greater than 60 comic-themed murals scattered all through the town. The Comedian Guide Route takes guests on a journey previous large-scale road artwork that includes characters like Tintin, Gaston Lagaffe, and Blake & Mortimer, seamlessly mixing artwork into the town’s historic structure. Take a look at this wonderful weblog submit concerning the Greatest Murals Alongside Brussels’ Comedian Guide Route.

Brussels Comics Collectible figurines Museum – A Nostalgic Journey

The Brussels Comics Collectible figurines Museum provides a singular journey into the third dimension of the Ninth Artwork. Established in 2012 by passionate collector Eric Pierre, this 1,300 m² museum showcases an intensive non-public assortment of collectible collectible figurines. It’s a dream vacation spot for comedian guide lovers of all ages, bringing to life essentially the most cherished characters from Belgian comics, American comics, and even manga.

The museum’s displays embrace detailed collectible figurines of Tintin, The Smurfs, Spirou, Fortunate Luke, and Asterix and Obelix, in addition to internationally famend superheroes like Batman, Spider-Man, and characters from Dragon Ball Z. Every show is intricately organized to inform a narrative, immersing guests within the fantasy worlds of their favourite comics.

Conveniently positioned lower than 200 meters from Grand Place, the museum is a must-visit for devoted comedian fanatics and newcomers to the world of comics.

Manneken Pis – The Well-known Peeing Boy

Subsequent, we stopped at Manneken Pis, one in every of Brussels’ most peculiar and well-known statues. This tiny bronze determine of a boy urinating right into a fountain has many quirky legends behind it. One story tells of a courageous boy who saved the town by extinguishing a fireplace together with his tinkle.

Relying on the day, he is likely to be wearing one in every of his tons of of costumes. That is additionally a preferred memento.

Jeanneke Pis – The Feminine Counterpart

Only a brief stroll from Manneken Pis, hidden in a small alley, you’ll discover Jeanneke Pis, the lesser-known however equally charming feminine model of the enduring statue.

Created in 1987, Jeanneke Pis depicts a bit of lady squatting and urinating, symbolizing equality and lighthearted humor in Brussels’ tradition. Not like her older counterpart, Jeanneke Pis is protected by an iron fence, including an air of secrecy to her presence. I’d assume that the gate might be there to protect the cash which might be thrown into the fountain in entrance of her. There’s a signal that reads that you’re serving to these in want when throwing a coin.

Frites Atelier – Connoisseur Belgian Fries

For lunch, we visited Frites Atelier, a high-end fries store by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman. These aren’t your extraordinary fries—every portion is completely crispy and served with connoisseur toppings and sauces. We tried the Flemish Beef stew and the Yakitori Rooster with a wasabi-flavored sauce. Each had been wonderful. The menu adjustments every season, introducing one thing new and thrilling.

The World of Banksy – Brussels

For road artwork lovers, The World of Banksy – Brussels provides a deep dive into the rebellious and thought-provoking works of the mysterious road artist, Banksy. This immersive exhibition showcases Banksy’s largest mural assortment, that includes detailed reproductions of his most well-known items.

The exhibit explores his distinctive social and political messages, tackling themes like consumerism, struggle, and surveillance. Situated in an atmospheric industrial area, the museum supplies an interesting perception into how city artwork challenges societal norms. It’s open 7 days per week. You possibly can purchase your entrance ticket right here.

Purchase Belgian Chocolate – A Candy Memento

No go to to Brussels is full with out indulging in Belgian chocolate. It’s thought of among the best on this planet. Belgium’s chocolate-making custom dates again to the seventeenth century, and immediately, Brussels is house to an array of world-renowned chocolatiers. From conventional pralines to progressive flavors, the town provides an abundance of decisions for each chocolate lover.

For a very genuine expertise, go to legendary chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, Godiva, and Leonidas, every providing their very own signature treats. Maison Dandoy, well-known for its speculoos, additionally crafts beautiful chocolate-infused delights. For those who’re searching for a extra artisanal contact, Mary and Laurent Gerbaud are wonderful choices. They’re recognized for his or her handcrafted, high-quality candies utilizing the best components.

You don’t should go far to seek out scrumptious chocolate in Brussels—small boutiques, specialty chocolate outlets, and even road distributors supply fantastically packaged candies, making them excellent presents or souvenirs. For an immersive expertise, take into account visiting a chocolate workshop to be taught concerning the chocolate-making course of and even craft your personal pralines. One other in style exercise is the Choco-Story Brussels: Chocolate Museum Entrance with Tasting.

Dinner at NONA – Genuine Neapolitan Pizza & Pasta

For these craving a scrumptious and informal dinner, NONA is a unbelievable possibility. Recognized for its genuine Neapolitan-style pizza, this in style eatery prides itself on utilizing natural, regionally sourced components and a slow-fermentation dough, leading to a lightweight and flavorful crust. NONA has develop into a staple in Brussels’ eating scene, with a number of places throughout the town, making it a handy alternative for guests.

If you would like a scrumptious pasta possibility, head to NONA St. Catherine (NONA St. Cat), their devoted recent pasta restaurant. Right here, you’ll discover house-made pasta dishes crafted with the identical dedication to high-quality, natural components. From wealthy, creamy carbonara to flavorful tomato-based sauces, NONA St. Cat is a superb alternative for pasta lovers who desire a cozy and satisfying meal within the metropolis heart.

The place to Keep in Brussels

Discovering the right lodging in Brussels enhances your expertise, whether or not you’re searching for luxurious, attraction, or comfort. Listed here are some high suggestions for the place to remain:

OPO Resort – Situated simply steps away from Grand Place and throughout from the Inventory Trade Constructing, this fashionable 4-star boutique lodge provides fashionable comforts in an unbeatable location. Situated within the former Previous Submit Workplace constructing with spacious rooms and wonderful service, it’s an amazing alternative for vacationers who wish to be within the coronary heart of the town. The lodge doesn’t have any meals & beverage retailers.

Rocco Forte Resort Amigo – A five-star lodge with a chic mix of luxurious and Belgian attraction, Resort Amigo is only a brief stroll from Grand Place. Its fantastically designed rooms, top-notch facilities, and famend restaurant make it an excellent keep for these searching for an upscale expertise.

The Dominican, a Member of Design Inns – An elegant and complicated lodge nestled in a historic constructing close to Place de la Monnaie. The Dominican provides fashionable interiors, a peaceable ambiance, and a shocking courtyard, making it an amazing possibility for vacationers who respect design and tranquility.

9Hotel Central – A classy, design-forward lodge that includes a minimalist, industrial-chic aesthetic. Conveniently positioned close to Brussels Central Station, this boutique lodge is ideal for many who desire a fashionable but cozy place to stick with quick access to transportation.

Watch my journey vlog Day 2 on YouTube

Ultimate Ideas

Spending 2 days in Brussels provides the right mixture of historical past, artwork, meals, and enjoyable. From the grandeur of Grand Place to indulging in Belgian waffles and connoisseur fries, this metropolis is a feast for the senses. Whether or not you’re an artwork lover, a foodie, or a historical past buff, Brussels will go away you enchanted and desperate to return.Would you add anything to your Brussels itinerary? Let me know within the feedback!