Brussels is often overlooked for the starlet Bruges on travelers’ bucket lists. This Brussels travel guide is for those willing to challenge that notion. Come with me as I show you my beloved Brussels, from practical tips, where to stay and eat, and how to make the most out of your time in the city.
When I first moved to Brussels, I had one heck of a time understanding what makes this Belgian city tick. At first glance, the city might seem, dare I say, boring and overly chaotic. But if you look a little closer, you will find Brussels contains multitudes. Grand squares and royal buildings sit beside comic murals, flea markets, African restaurants, Art Nouveau townhouses, and cozy brunch spots.
That is also why Brussels works so well as a city break. The historical center is compact and walkable, many of the main sights are close together, and the wider city opens up easily by tram, metro, or train. Add a strong food scene and some excellent day trips, and you have the makings of a very good first trip to my home country, Belgium.
This Brussels travel guide is for first-time visitors who want a practical overview with specific recommendations. Inside, you will find the best things to do in Brussels, the neighborhoods worth exploring, where to stay, where to eat, how many days to spend, and when it makes sense to add a day trip
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Book Your Brussels Trip
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
- Food: Waffle Making Workshop
- Beer: 2.5 Hour Beer Tasting Tour
- Day Trip: Guided Tour to Bruges & Ghent
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)
MORE INSPIRATION: 3-5 Day Belgium itinerary || 15 Conscious boutique hotels in Brussels
SEASONAL GUIDES: Brussels Christmas Market // Hallerbos near Brussels guide
DISCOUNT CARDS: Art Nouveau Pass; Brussels City Card with public transport included
Brussels Travel Guide Essentials for First-Time Visitors
READ | One Day in Brussels // Weekend in Brussels
Is Brussels worth visiting?
READ | Is Brussels Worth Visiting
Yes, Brussels is absolutely worth visiting. While it may not have the instant charm of Bruges, it offers equally grand architecture, excellent museums, diverse food, and a smattering of diverse neighborhoods. It’s such a cool melting pot of cultures that somehow all live harmoniously.
For me, Brussels works best when you go beyond the headline sights. Sure the Grand Place is amazing, but did you know Art Nouveau originated right here? You can visit the founding architect’s studio (Victor Horta Museum). Or perhaps you want to go and see our very own Triumphal Arch or spend half a day perusing one of the country’s oldest flea markets.
What Brussels is best known for
READ | 25 Beautiful Places in Brussels
I would say probably the Grand Place. It is one of the most impressive squares in Europe, and it really is worth seeing in person. The guild houses, the gold detailing, the Town Hall, the shifting light across the façades, it is all rather spectacular.
Locally, Brussels is also known for Art Nouveau architecture, comic culture, strong beer bars, a multicultural food scene, and neighborhoods like Sablon, Saint Catherine, Dansaert, and Ixelles, which each bring something different to the city. More on that later/
Is Brussels walkable for tourists?
Yes, Brussels is very walkable for tourists. If you are visiting for the first time, most of the main sights are close enough together that you can cover a good deal on foot. That is one of the reasons Brussels works so well for a short city break.
You only really need public transport once you start widening the radius. That includes heading out to Ixelles, visiting the Atomium area, or using Brussels as a base for day trips by train.
Who enjoys Brussels best?
That is a really hard one to answer. I am too biased and would love to say “everyone loves Brussels”. The fact of the matter is, they do not. Travelers who are looking for a city with character, that has a chaotic, but interesting architectural scene and a vibrant cultural sector. It’s also a really good jumping board into the rest of Belgium.
How Many Days in Brussels Do You Need?
Is one day in Brussels enough?
READ | One Day in Brussels
That depends on what the goal of your trip is. One day in Brussels is enough for the highlights. You can see Grand Place, walk through the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, spot Manneken Pis, head up to Mont des Arts, visit a museum, and still have a bit of time to try a local beer and grab a bite to eat. That said, one day will not allow you to get a proper feel for the city. I always recommend friends to come for at least 2 days.
Why 2 days in Brussels is better for first-time visitors
READ | One Day in Brussels // Weekend in Brussels
Two days is the sweet spot for most first-time visitors. That gives you enough time to cover the classics on one day, then spend the second exploring neighborhoods, museums, brunch spots, flea markets, or a few less obvious corners of the city.
It also gives you the breathing room to enjoy a local brew (beer, beer, and more beer) and indulge in the exceptional culinary scene. We Belgians are Burgundians i.e,. we love to eat and drink. It’s the true fabric that ties our social lives together. And as the capital of Europe, we are very fortunate to have just about any cuisine imaginable available, right at our fingertips.
When to spend 3 days in Brussels
READ | Best Day Trips from Brussels // Best Trips from Brussels by Train
Three days in Brussels is ideal if you like slower travel. It gives you enough time to enjoy the city without rushing, and still leaves room for a day trip to somewhere like Bruges, Antwerp, Ghent, or Namur.
Best Things to Do in Brussels for First-Time Visitors
See Brussels’ top landmarks and historical sights
READ | One Day in Brussels // Weekend in Brussels
Grand Place | The most famous square in Brussels and the one landmark I would tell every first-time visitor not to miss. Surrounded by ornate guild houses and the Town Hall, it is especially beautiful early in the morning or around sunset.
Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert | One of the prettiest covered arcades in Europe, lined with elegant shopfronts, cafés, and chocolate stores. Even if you are not planning to shop, it is worth walking through for the architecture alone.
La Bourse | One of the most beautiful buildings in central Brussels and a good stop between Grand Place and Saint Catherine. The grand façade makes it worth a quick detour, especially if you are already exploring the historic center.
Manneken Pis | Small, slightly strange, and undeniably one of Brussels’ most famous symbols. I would not go out of my way just for this, but it is easy to see when exploring the center and is worth a quick stop for the novelty.
Mont des Arts | One of the best viewpoints in Brussels and a place I always recommend for a classic city view. It also puts you close to several major museums, making it an easy addition to a first-time itinerary.
Atomium | One of Brussels’ most iconic modern landmarks, located a little further out from the center. It is worth visiting if you have more than one day in the city or want to see a different side of Brussels beyond the historic core.
Visit the most beautiful places in Brussels
READ | 25 Beautiful Places in Brussels
Maison Hannon | My favorite Art Nouveau house in Brussels, and one of the city’s most visually striking interiors. It reopened in 2024 after renovations and feels a little more unusual than the better-known Horta Museum, thanks to its mix of Belgian Art Nouveau and French Symbolism.
Tropismes Librairie | Tucked inside the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, this is one of the most beautiful bookshops in Brussels. Chandeliers, mirrors, and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves make it feel wonderfully theatrical, and it is an easy stop when exploring the center
La Monnaie | Even if opera is not usually your thing, this is still worth visiting. The building is one of the most elegant cultural landmarks in Brussels, and the interior, with its gilded details, red velvet seats, and chandelier, is every bit as beautiful as you would hope.
Horta Museum | One of the most beautiful places in Brussels for anyone with even a passing interest in architecture. Set inside Victor Horta’s former home and studio, it is full of stained glass, mosaic floors, elegant ironwork, and the kind of details that make you want to stop in every room
Explore the best neighborhoods in Brussels
READ | Where to stay in Brussels
Sablon | One of the most elegant neighborhoods in Brussels, known for antique shops, galleries, boutique hotels, and excellent brunch spots. It is a great area to explore if you want something central but a little more refined than the busiest streets around Grand Place.
Ixelles | My favorite area for a more local feel, with lively squares, bars, cafés, and one of the city’s strongest food scenes. If you want to see a more everyday side of Brussels, this is the neighborhood I would recommend.
Saint-Géry | A lively central neighborhood best known for bars, restaurants, and nightlife. It is a good place to spend an evening if you want something energetic without straying too far from the historic center.
Saint Catherine and Dansaert | One of the best parts of Brussels for stylish restaurants, wine bars, independent boutiques, and a more local atmosphere. I think this area works especially well if your trip revolves as much around food as sightseeing.
Marolles | A neighborhood with grit, vintage shops, and the daily Jeu de Balle flea market, which gives it a very different feel from the polished center. I would head here if you want to see a more characterful and less polished side of Brussels.
Visit museums and cultural attractions in Brussels
Magritte Museum | My top museum pick for a first trip to Brussels, especially if you want something distinctly Belgian. It houses the largest collection of works by René Magritte and sits right by Mont des Arts, making it easy to combine with other central sights.
Musical Instruments Museum | One of the most beautiful museum buildings in Brussels, set inside a striking Art Nouveau former department store. Even if the collection is not your main draw, the rooftop restaurant and view over the city make it worth the stop.
Horta Museum | The best museum to visit if you want to understand Brussels’ Art Nouveau heritage properly. Set inside Victor Horta’s former home and studio, it offers a much deeper look at one of the city’s most distinctive architectural movements.
Comic Art Museum | A very good museum to add if you want to lean into one of Brussels’ most distinctive cultural identities. Housed in a beautiful Victor Horta-designed building, it explores Belgium’s comic heritage, including Tintin and The Smurfs.
Beer Museum at La Bourse | A good stop if you want to learn a little more about Belgian brewing culture while staying in the center. Since it is located inside La Bourse, it is easy to visit while exploring the historic core and works well as a short cultural detour.
Brussels City Museum | Set right on Grand Place, this is a useful museum if you want more context on the city’s history without straying far from the main sights. It is also where you can see the original Manneken Pis costume collection, which makes it an easy add-on when exploring the square.
DISCOUNT CARD: If you are planning on visiting multiple museums, make sure to look into the Brussels Card. Offers entrance to 40 plus museums at a discounted rate.
Where to Stay in Brussels: Best Areas for First-Time Visitors
READ | Where to stay in Brussels // Boutique Hotels in Brussels // B&B in Brussels
Best area to stay in Brussels for sightseeing
If your main goal is to see the big sights with as little effort as possible, stay in the Historical Centre. This is the best area for first-time visitors because so many of Brussels’ best-known landmarks are within walking distance. Grand Place, museums, restaurants, and historic streets are all close at hand, which makes this part of the city especially practical for short stays.
MY TOP PICKS:
Bed & Breakfast Vaudeville — Top-rated B&B in the Galerie de la Reine, about a 5-minute walk from Grand Place.
Warwick Brussels – Grand Place — Luxury pick, with a rooftop bar and a location just minutes from Grand Place and Central Station.
Best Brussels neighborhoods for food and local charm
For food, local life, and a less touristy feel, I would choose either Ixelles or the Dansaert area.
IIXELLES | One of the most enjoyable neighborhoods in Brussels if you want cafés, bars, and restaurants that are entirely local. It’s a favorite among expats, especially Flagey and Châtelain. The downside is that you will need to take a tram to get to the historical centre.
DANSAERT | This area is equally buzzing with bars and restaurants, it’s just a lot more centrally located. This is great for a first-time visit, but be sure to bring earplugs because this part of the city tends to be a bit more rowdy.
MY TOP PICKS IXELLES:
Moxy Brussels Centre — My reco! With a cool interior, gym, bar, and strong location.
Hygge Hotel — A cozy design hotel with a terrace and garden, and a very good location for bars and restaurants.
Le Berger Hotel — For lovers of Art Deco, with a quirky boutique feel and an outdoor pool.
MY TOP PICKS DANSAERT
B&B B’Kanal — A locally run B&B in Dansaert, created by a local artist inside a converted studio.
Citadines Sainte Catherine — Value-for-money option, with on-site parking and optional breakfast.
Juliana Hotel Brussels — Luxury pick here, with a sauna, hammam, indoor pool, and private parking.
Where to stay in Brussels for a weekend trip
For a weekend in Brussels, I would choose between the Historical Centre, Sablon, or Dansaert/Saint Catherine.
HISTORICAL CENTRE | The Historical Centre is the easiest option if you want to maximize your time and walk to the main monuments.
SABLON | Sablon is better if you want a more elegant, slower city break built around galleries, brunch, boutique hotels, and antique shops.
DANSAERT | Dansaert and Saint Catherine are ideal if you want to stay central with a good social scene, lovely squares, stylish boutiques, and strong restaurants, but without the rowdy nightlife of nearby Saint-Géry.
MY TOP PICKS SABLON
Guesthouse Les Chambres de Martin — Most authentic Sablon stay, right by Notre-Dame du Sablon with lovely views and a lot of character.
NH Collection Sablon — 4-star pick in the heart of Sablon, with rooms overlooking the Palais de Justice.
9Hotel Sablon — A calm base with a wellness area, just a short walk from Grand Place.
Central Brussels vs Ixelles vs Sablon
If you want pure convenience, choose Central Brussels. This is the best fit for first-time visitors, short stays, and anyone who wants to walk everywhere. It is practical, iconic, and very easy to navigate, but it can feel tourist-heavy and more expensive.
If you want food and a more local atmosphere, choose Ixelles. It is less about ticking off landmarks and more about cafés, markets, bars, and neighborhoods with real day-to-day life. It is one of the best choices for travelers who already know they care as much about atmosphere as sightseeing.
If you want an upscale city break, choose Sablon. It’s safe, polished, and walkable, with trendy brunch spots, antique dealers, galleries, and boutique hotels. It feels a little like a village inside the city. The only real downside is the price and the fact that it gets quiet at night.
Personally, I would say choose Central Brussels for a first trip, Ixelles for food and local charm, and Sablon for a more refined weekend away.
Best Hotels in Brussels: Boutique Hotels and Charming B&Bs
READ | Where to stay in Brussels // Boutique Hotels in Brussels // B&B in Brussels
Best boutique hotels in Brussels
The Dominican | I would choose this if location is the priority, as it sits in the historical center and works especially well for a first trip or short stay. It is also your luxury pick in the boutique hotel guide, which makes it a very safe all-rounder.
Art Nouveau Maison Flagey | I love this one for its setting inside a classified Art Nouveau building right by Flagey Square. It is the sort of place I would book if I wanted Brussels to feel a little more local, design-led, and characterful.
Boutique Hotel Saint Géry | I would pick this for a lively weekend in Brussels, especially if bars and restaurants are high on the list. The 19th-century manor-house feel and central Saint-Géry location make it a very easy choice for a fun city break
Best B&Bs in Brussels
Art de Sejour | I would recommend this if you want a small, polished B&B in the historical center with a lot of warmth and very little fuss. The 19th-century townhouse setting, large rooms, and consistently praised breakfast make it one of the strongest all-round picks.
B&B Le Vaudeville | I would choose this for the location alone, as it sits inside the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and puts you a three-minute walk from Grand Place. If I wanted a stay that felt distinctly Brussels, this would be high on my list.
Maison Flagey | I would book this if I wanted a B&B with real personality in one of my favorite parts of Brussels. The locally run feel, Art Nouveau setting, and Flagey location make it ideal for anyone wanting bars, restaurants, and a more everyday side of the city.
Best hotels in Brussels for a local feel
Made in Louise | I would choose this if I wanted to stay in a neighborhood that feels more local than the historical center, without giving up comfort. Its townhouse setting in the Louise/Châtelain area, garden, and strong sustainability credentials are but a few reasons why I love this hotel.
B&B B’Kanal | I would pick this if I wanted something creative and centrally located in Dansaert. It’s very different from your big-scale hotel chains, so perfect if you want a little local flair.
Maison Arya | I would choose this if I wanted a central stay that still feels warm and homely. Its location near Sainte-Catherine and its cozy common spaces make it a lovely middle ground between the above two recommended hotels. It’s not a luxury hotel, but it is not a small B&B either.
Where to Eat & Drink in Brussels: Vegan, Vegetarian and Local Favorites
READ | Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Brussels // Best Brunch in Brussels // Best Pizza in Brussels
One of the things I love most about Brussels is how varied the gastronomy scene is. You can find pretty much anything, as long as you keep in mind the lunch/dinner hours. Lunch is served between 12.00 and 03.00 pm and dinner starts at 06.00 pm and most kitchens will close between 09.00 pm and 10.00 pm (more the former than the latter).
Best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Brussels
Bodja Vegetarian Restaurant and Teahouse | I would come here for a relaxed vegetarian or vegan lunch in Ixelles, especially for the momos and Buddha bowls. The hidden terrace is great in the summer.
Humus x Hortense | I would book this when I want a proper vegan fine-dining experience rather than just a good dinner. The Green Michelin star, beautiful interior, and creative tasting menus make it one of the most special dining experiences in Brussels
Lil Bao | I would choose this for a quick bite in the center when I want something fun, affordable, and fully vegan. The fluffy steamed buns and bright, playful interior make it ideal before a night out.
Le Conteur | I would pick this for dinner when I want somewhere with a bit more atmosphere. The family-style Middle Eastern plates, cocktails, and lively setting make it a great choice if I am eating out with friends or on a date. Has plenty of vegetarian options, not suitable for vegans.
Best brunch in Brussels
Frank. | I would come here if I want a brunch spot with a hip crowd. The locally sourced, organic, and seasonal approach, plus the excellent matcha and Australian-style breakfast are pretty spectacular. Also very centrally located!
Pois Chiche | I would choose this when I want a brunch that feels hearty and a little different from the usual eggs-and-toast formula. The Middle Eastern menu, conscious approach, and unlimited drink refills make it very good value too.
Kafei | I would go here when I am in the mood for something more indulgent, especially the tiramisu fluffy pancakes. They started off with one small restaurant and have since expanded to various locations in Brussels. Matcha here is excellent!
La Table Rustique | I would book this for a cozy weekend brunch. The mix of pancakes, French toast, salad bowls, and Middle Eastern touches makes it feel a little more original than the average brunch place.
Cool bars in Brussels
Brussels Beer Project | I would come here if I wanted somewhere laid-back and modern with very good craft beer. This local craft brewery started a few years back and has since taken Brussels by a storm. Currently has three locations in the city centre.
Moeder Lambic | I would choose this if I wanted to try one of Brussels’ best beer bars rather than just grab a casual pint. What makes it special is the vast selection of beers on tap, including lambic, which is one of the most distinctive beer styles to try in Brussels,
Bar des Amis | I would go here for a more social evening, especially if I wanted somewhere lively and central. This is one of the tried and tested Brussels bars that has been around since I was a student (many moons ago).
Le Falstaff | I would come here for the atmosphere and a drink rather than a full meal. Its Art Nouveau interior and location right by La Bourse make it one of the prettiest bars to duck into in central Brussels.
Getting Around Brussels: Public Transport, Walking and Day Trips
Is Brussels easy to get around without a car?
Yes, Brussels is easy to get around without a car. For a first trip to Brussels, you can cover a surprising amount on foot, especially in the historical center where Grand Place, the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, Manneken Pis, La Bourse, and Mont des Arts all sit fairly close together. That is one of the reasons Brussels works so well for a weekend break
Using public transport in Brussels
My favorite way to get around the city is walking, but as you might have realised Brussels does tend to get a lot of rain. If your trip to Brussels coincides with a heavy rainfall, or if you are looking to visit the Atomium, Bois de La Cambre or any of the Art Nouveau in the Saint-Gilles/Ixelles area, public transport is the way to go.
TICKETS | Your yourself a Brussels Card. It includes public transport as well as entry to a long list of museums, which makes it a steal. I recommend anyone who comes to visit me to get this card.
MODES OF TRANSPORT | We have a wide range of busses, metro and trams clattering through the streets. Google maps does a great job of telling you exactly which type of transport to use (I use it all the time). Read up on public transport on the Brussels City website.
Walking around Brussels as a first-time visitor
Walking is one of the best ways to experience Brussels for the first time. The city center is compact enough that you can move easily between many of the main landmarks, and walking also gives you time to notice the architecture, the side streets, the covered galleries. The city is such a mixed bag in terms of archtiecture, Art Nouveau houses rub shoulders with odd looking 50-ies style buildings. Well worth walking around.
SAFETY | Brussels is generally a very safe city. Like any capital, it does get it’s share of pickpockets in the tourist-heavy areas of town. The best advice I can give you is to use your common sense: do not walk around with your bag open, leave your phone on the table etc.
Using Brussels as a base for train travel
READ | Day Trips from Brussels by Train // Castles near Brussels
One of the best things about planning a Brussels city break is how easy it is to see more of the beautiful places in Belgium without constantly moving hotels. If you have more than two days, Brussels works very well as a base for train travel, with places like Bruges, Mechelen, and Ghent all easy enough to visit on a day trip. More on that below.
Best Time to Visit Brussels
Visiting Brussels in spring
READ | Explore the bluebell forest around Brussels
Spring is one of the best times to visit Brussels, with average temperatures hovering around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F) in April and May. I think it is a lovely season for a Brussels city break, especially if you want mild weather for walking, park time, and slower afternoons spent hopping between neighborhoods, museums, and cafés.
It is also a very good season for architecture and culture. BANAD Festival opens up remarkable Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings across the city, while the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken are open for 3 weeks in April/May. The famous bluebell forest starts blooming late April/May and is well worth seeing too. Pack layers and a raincoat.
Visiting Brussels in summer
Summer is a lovely time to visit if your focus is on what to do in Brussels beyond the museums, with average temperatures around 22°C to 23°C (72°F to 73°F) in July. I love this time of year because locals and expats tend to head out on holiday and the city is blissfully empty. Oh and every café (small and big) will have a teracce where you can enjoy that rare bit of sun.
It is also one of the livelier seasons for events. Couleur Café takes place the last week of June, and the city rolls out a biannual Flower Carpet, carpeting the entire Grand Place in millions of flowers. I would pack light layers, sunglasses, and still bring a small umbrella.
Visiting Brussels in autumn
Autumn is a lovely time to visit if you are planning a cultural Brussels weekend. In October, average daytime temperatures hover around 14°C to 16°C (57°F to 60°F), which is cool enough for coats and cafés, but still pleasant for walking through the center and spending time in museums.
I like Brussels in autumn because it’s super cozy, but also if has one of mu favorite architectural festivals. ANTE Festival takes place in October and shines a light on Brussels’ built heritage from Neoclassicism to the roots of Modernism. Most of the buildings that you can visit during the festival are usually closed to the public. I would bring a light coat, knitwear, and shoes that can handle rain
Visiting Brussels in winter and Christmas market season
READ | Brussels Christmas Market Full Guide
Winter is a lovely time to visit if your Brussels itinerary includes Christmas lights, market stalls, and a more atmospheric side of the city. Average daytime temperatures sit around 5°C to 6°C (41°F to 43°F), and while it is cold, Brussels feels especially magical once the lights go up around Grand-Place, Sainte-Catherine, and La Bourse.
The big draw is Winter Wonders, with its festive chalets, sound-and-light show on Grand-Place, and seasonal installations across the center ‘runs end of November to first week of January). If you are visiting Brussels in Febuary, Bright Festival adds illuminated artworks and evening walking routes, I would pack a warm coat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof shoes.
Best Day Trips from Brussels
READ | Best Day Trips from Brussels
Best day trips from Brussels by train
Mechelen | Around 24 minutes from Brussels by train. One of the easiest day trips from Brussels, Mechelen offers a compact historic center, colorful gabled houses, and landmarks like Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral, all within easy walking distance. I lived here for 10 years and cannot recommend it enough! Read my local guide to Mechelen before you go.
Antwerp | Around 45 minutes from Brussels by train. Antwerp is worth visiting for its fashion scene, impressive architecture, riverside setting, and cultural highlights such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Plantin-Moretus Museum. Read my full guide to Antwerp before you go.
Namur | Around 1 hour from Brussels by train. The capital of Wallonia is often overlooked when people visit Belgium and it’s a real pity. Ride the cable car to the hilltop citadel, walk around the riverside setting, and explore the vibrant graffiti scene. Read my full guide to Namur before you go.
Best nature day trips from Brussels
Dinant | Around 1 hour 40 minutes from Brussels by train. Dinant is worth the trip for its dramatic setting along the Meuse, its citadel, and the fact that it offers more than sightseeing alone, with plenty of nearby hikes, kayaking, and outdoor activities.
La Roche-en-Ardenne | Around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours from Brussels by car. This is one of the best spots to head to in Belgium if you want to go hiking. Think forested landscapes, scenic viewpoints, and tons of well signposted hiking routes.
Best Belgian cities to visit from Brussels
Ghent | Around 35 to 40 minutes from Brussels by train. Ghent is my favorite city in Belgium. It has the beauty of Bruges ( medieval architecture, canals) but it also has a super lively atmosphere. The latter is a bit lacking in Bruges. Read my full guide to Ghent before you go.
Bruges | Around 1 hour from Brussels by train. If this is your fist time visiting Belgium, you absolutely cannot miss this picture perfect city. Yes it will be busy and touristy but the cobbled streets, and fairytale-like center are unparalleled. Read my one day guide to Bruges before you go.
Liège | Around 1 hour from Brussels by train. Liège is an absolutely underrated city in Belgium. It has a very strong food scene, and sights such as the Montagne de Bueren and the striking Liège-Guillemins station. It is a bit grittier than the cities in northern Belgium, but do not let that stop you. Read my full guide to Liège before you go.
Brussels Itinerary for 1, 2, and 3 Days
1 day in Brussels itinerary
READ | One day in Brussels
If you only have one day, this Brussels itinerary should focus on the city’s major landmarks and one museum.
MORNING: Start at Grand Place, then walk through the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert and continue to Manneken Pis. From there, make your way up to Mont des Arts for one of the best views in Brussels.
AFTERNOON: Visit the Magritte Museum or the Musical Instruments Museum, then spend some time wandering around Sablon for its antique shops, elegant streets. If you have time over, meander down to the Marolles for some vintage shopping.
WHERE TO EAT: Lunch at Frank, dinner at Le Conteur
2 days in Brussels itinerary
READ | Weekend in Brussels Guide
If it’s your first time in Brussels, I would stay at least two days. Day one you can focus on the major landmarks while day two you can spend visiting more museums and spots that are a little further out. So keep day one as indicated above and day two I would do the following:
MORNING: Start in Saint-Gilles at Maison Hannon, one of the most striking Art Nouveau houses in Brussels, then continue to the Horta Museum in nearby Ixelles.
AFTERNOON: Head to Cinquantenaire Park for a slower afternoon, then make your way to the Comic Art Museum if you want to keep one more cultural stop in the day. If seeing the Atomium is important, it can be added, but it works better as a swap for the museum rather than as an extra stop, otherwise the day starts to feel too transport-heavy for a relaxed Brussels city break.
WHERE TO EAT: Lunch at Bodja and dinner Les Petites Oignons (Belgian cuisine)
3 days in Brussels itinerary with a day trip
Keep day one and day two as mentioned above and use day three to head out on a day trip from Brussels. If it’s your fist time in Belgium try either Bruges or Ghent for a day trip.
Brussels Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Practical Brussels travel tips
STAY CENTRAL | If it’s your first time in Brussels you will want to stay in the historical centre, Sablon or Saint Catherine. These areas of the city will ensure you can see the major landmarks on foot.
ART NOUVEAU PASS | If you are into Art Nouveau, make sure to look into purchasing the Art Nouveau pass. It gives you access to 3 Art Nouveau houses at a reduced rate!
MEALTIME | Kitchens close after 03.00 pm and between 09.00 pm and 10.00 pm
WEEKLY CLOSING DAY | Many museums are closed on Tuesday, while stores and supermarkets tend to be closed on sunday. So if you want to purchase a souvenir, take this into account.
Common mistakes to avoid on your Brussels city break
The biggest mistake is treating Brussels like a city that can be understood from the square kilometer around Grand Place alone. I hope this Brussels guide has shown you that it is well worth venturing out to Ixelles, Sabon, Marolles and all the surrounding neighborhoods. Public transport will get you just about anywhere for €2.5 a ticket.
Brussels Travel Guide FAQ
Is Brussels worth visiting for a weekend?
As a local, I might be a smidge biased when is say “YES”. I love Brussels and it truly saddens me when people recommend skipping it because it’s “boring” or “there is nothing to do”. From the Grand Place, lush parks and opulent Art Nouveau buildings to a super diverse beer and culinary scene, there is something for everyone.
How many days should you spend in Brussels?
I would spend a minimum of two days in Brussels. This gives you plenty of time to explore the historical centre as well as the surrounding areas which contain plenty of Art Nouveau, as well as the iconic Atomium.
What is the best area to stay in Brussels?
For a first time visit to Brussels I would recommend staying in the historical centre, Sablon or the Dansaert area.
What are the best things to do in Brussels?
The best things to do in Brussels include visiting Grand Place, walking through the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, and heading up to Mont des Arts for one of the city’s best views. Beyond the landmarks, I would also make time for the Magritte Museum, a wander through Sablon, Ixelles or the Marolles. And of course make sure to see some of the Art Nouveau in Brussels: Horta Museum is the easiest to access.
What is the best time to visit Brussels?
Personally I love spring in Brussels. We usually get good weather and the magnolias; cherry blossoms and hyacints are out in full bloom. Christmas in Brussels is also pretty magical. The city is festooned with lights and little wooden chalets are dotted around the historical centre. It does tend to be colder and higher chances of rain in December.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BRUSSELS & SURROUNDINGS
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