The right way to Spend 2 Days in Brussels

Planning to discover the guts of Europe? With simply 2 days in Brussels, you may expertise its wealthy historical past, dynamic structure, scrumptious consolation meals, and inventive appeal. 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 thought for its mix of historic grandeur and trendy vibrancy. It boasts gorgeous structure, world-renowned candies, indulgent waffles, and a few of the greatest fries you’ll ever style.

Residence to the long-lasting Grand Place, the charming Manneken Pis, and a thriving comedian e-book tradition, Brussels can be a hub for European politics, with establishments just like the European Parliament shaping international affairs. Brussels has one thing for each traveler, whether or not you’re drawn to its artwork scene, wealthy historical past, or gourmand delights.

Certainly one of Brussels’s most fascinating features is its architectural range. Successive waves of Baroque, Classical, Artwork Nouveau, Artwork Deco, and Modernist kinds have formed the cityscape, making it a visually fascinating vacation spot. You may like to affix this  3-Hour Guided Artwork Nouveau Tour to study extra about its origins and growth.

In contrast to some European capitals favoring a single aesthetic, Brussels embraces contrasts, mixing grand historic landmarks with up to date 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 properties and public buildings that stay a few of the most beautiful on the earth. These architectural treasures have been lovingly restored, reflecting 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 Heart

Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is the principle worldwide gateway to town, and there are a number of handy methods to achieve town middle:

• Practice: The quickest and most handy possibility is the Brussels Airport Specific practice, which departs each quarter-hour from the airport’s railway station (situated under 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 town middle.
• Taxi: A taxi from the airport to town middle prices roughly €50 and takes round half-hour, relying on site visitors. You possibly can pre-book your personal switch with Welcome Pickups.
• Trip-Sharing & Personal Transfers: Providers 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 expensive pal visiting from the U.S. We checked into OPO Resort, a wonderful selection for its unbeatable location, steps from Grand Place and throughout from the Bourse Brussels (Inventory Alternate Constructing). The Bourse Brussels additionally homes the Belgian Beer World Expertise.

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

Grand Place – A UNESCO-listed Surprise

Our first cease was the long-lasting Grand Place, one of the breathtaking squares in Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage website is surrounded by gorgeous 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 guts 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. at this time, 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 constructions testifies to the pleasure and craftsmanship of the guild members, making Grand Place an architectural surprise and a residing piece of historical past. You may want 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 examine the schedule earlier than you go.

Inside, you’ll discover a 360° cinema, interactive reveals 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 dwelling to a lot of the EU’s key establishments, together with the European Fee, the European Council, and the European Parliament’s predominant workplace. 

Nevertheless, the EU operates throughout three cities: Brussels, the political and decision-making middle; Luxembourg, the executive hub, dwelling to key places of work 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 periods.

Entry to the Parlamentarium is free; audio-guided excursions final about 90 minutes. It’s fascinating to grasp how choices 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 fantastic inexperienced house good 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 remains to be price admiring from the skin.

What makes the Royal Palace of Brussels particular is its symbolic function slightly than its being a everlasting royal residence. In contrast to 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 time months, guests can tour its opulent inside, which options breathtaking chandeliers, lavishly adorned 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 surprising sight and an vital historic and cultural emblem of Belgium.

Place Royale – A Historic Sq. with Royal Ties

Earlier than reaching Mont des Arts, we handed by way of 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 frontrunner 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 be a gateway to a few of the metropolis’s most vital museums, making it a necessary cease for historical past and artwork lovers.

Mont des Arts – Cultural Hub with Gorgeous Metropolis View

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

Mont des Arts provides gorgeous panoramic views of Brussels, particularly at sundown when the skyline lights up with golden hues. From right here, you can too see the well-known city corridor tower situated in the Grand Place. The world is dwelling to a number of of town’s most vital 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. In case you look carefully, you will note a inexperienced apple on the museum’s roof. It was positioned there to have fun the world-famous artist’s a 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 surprising instance of Gothic structure, courting again to the thirteenth century. With its towering twin spires, intricate stained glass home windows, and wealthy historical past, it serves as 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 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 courting again to 1921.

The restaurant is thought for serving basic Belgian dishes like mussels and frites in a chic setting. The restaurant is really useful within the Michelin Information and has a fantastic, 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 can too head to Atonomium.

Atomium: Certainly one of 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 occasions. Initially constructed for the 1958 Brussels World’s Honest (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 town middle, the Atomium is definitely accessible through metro (Heysel station) in about 7 minutes on foot. In case you 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 surprising 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 Fantastic Arts

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

This huge museum advanced is dwelling to over 20,000 artworks from the fifteenth century to up to date occasions, providing a deep dive into Belgium’s inventive heritage. It consists of a number of museums devoted to a particular inventive interval or fashion. We opted for the Outdated Masters Museums, however if in case you have extra time, you can too go to the opposite collections.

The Outdated 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 embody Bruegel’s masterpiece, The Fall of the Insurgent Angels, and Rubens’s dynamic spiritual 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 by way of Symbolism, Impressionism, and artwork nouveau. Among the many highlights are works by James Ensor, Fernand Khnopff, and Théo van Rysselberghe.

The Fashionable Museum—This museum part options up to date 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 concentrate on the works of Antoine Wiertz, a Romantic painter with grand historic compositions, and Constantin Meunier, recognized for his sensible depictions of business 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 reputation on the 1964 New York World’s Honest, when a Belgian named Maurice Vermersch launched them to American audiences. Initially referred to 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 also like this standard small-group tour. Ebook 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. Among the hottest spots embody Maison Dandoy, recognized for its conventional recipe, and Le Funambule, situated 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 score.

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

Brussels – A International Comics Capital & Road Artwork Haven

Brussels is sometimes called the comedian e-book capital of the world, a title effectively deserved as a result of its wealthy legacy within the Ninth Artwork, the time period used for comics in Belgium. The nation has produced a few of the world’s most beloved comedian e-book 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 by way of detailed storytelling and inventive improvements. At present, comics stay a significant a part of Belgian id, 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 town. The Comedian Ebook 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 town’s historic structure. Take a look at this glorious weblog submit in regards to the Greatest Murals Alongside Brussels’ Comedian Ebook 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 in depth personal assortment of collectible collectible figurines. It’s a dream vacation spot for comedian e-book lovers of all ages, bringing to life probably the most cherished characters from Belgian comics, American comics, and even manga.

The museum’s reveals embody 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 situated lower than 200 meters from Grand Place, the museum is a must-visit for devoted comedian lovers 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 town by extinguishing a fireplace together with his tinkle.

Relying on the day, he is perhaps wearing one in every of his a whole lot 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 long-lasting statue.

Created in 1987, Jeanneke Pis depicts just a little woman squatting and urinating, symbolizing equality and lighthearted humor in Brussels’ tradition. In contrast to her older counterpart, Jeanneke Pis is protected by an iron fence, including an charisma to her presence. I’d assume that the gate might be there to protect the cash which can 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 – Gourmand 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 gourmand toppings and sauces. We tried the Flemish Beef stew and the Yakitori Rooster with a wasabi-flavored sauce. Each had been glorious. 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 house, the museum gives a captivating 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-about a few of the best on the earth. Belgium’s chocolate-making custom dates again to the seventeenth century, and at this time, Brussels is dwelling to an array of world-renowned chocolatiers. From conventional pralines to revolutionary flavors, 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. In case you’re on the lookout for a extra artisanal contact, Mary and Laurent Gerbaud are glorious choices. They’re recognized for his or her handcrafted, high-quality candies utilizing the best elements.

You don’t must go far to seek out scrumptious chocolate in Brussels—small boutiques, specialty chocolate outlets, and even road distributors supply superbly packaged candies, making them good presents or souvenirs. For an immersive expertise, think about visiting a chocolate workshop to study in regards to the chocolate-making course of and even craft your individual pralines. One other standard 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. Identified for its genuine Neapolitan-style pizza, this standard eatery prides itself on utilizing natural, regionally sourced elements 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 town, making it a handy selection 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 elements. From wealthy, creamy carbonara to flavorful tomato-based sauces, NONA St. Cat is a wonderful selection for pasta lovers who desire a cozy and satisfying meal within the metropolis middle.

The place to Keep in Brussels

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

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

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

The Dominican, a Member of Design Resorts – 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 surprising courtyard, making it a terrific possibility for vacationers who respect design and tranquility.

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

Watch my journey vlog Day 2 on YouTube

Last 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 gourmand 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 wanting to return.Would you add anything to your Brussels itinerary? Let me know within the feedback!