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- July 31, 2024
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One Day in Brussels: Best Things To Do in 24 Hours
If you are planning a trip to Brussels, Belgium, and looking for the Perfect One Day in Brussels Itinerary, you have come to the right place!
Brussels, right in the heart of Europe and the capital of Belgium, is a must-visit if you want to soak up some culture, history, and amazing food. We explored this lively city and discovered so many new and exciting things along the way!
From iconic landmarks such as the Grand Place and Atomium to the world-famous chocolates and waffles, Brussels offers something for everyone. With so much to see and do, planning the ideal day can be overwhelming. That’s why we have crafted this ultimate one-day Brussels itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this unique city.
Table of Contents
Is One Day in Brussels Enough?
One day is enough to get a taste of Brussels: explore the charming streets of the Grand Place, enjoy some of the city’s famous chocolates, and visit at least one of its must-see museums. Of course, you can’t see everything Brussels has to offer in just a day.
When to Visit Brussels
Summer:
We think summer is the best time to visit Brussels. The city’s location means that weather throughout the year can be quite unpredictable, often leaning towards wet and chilly. But in summer, Brussels truly comes alive. Temperatures typically range from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the city’s parks, gardens, and lively street festivals. The popular events in the summer include the Ommegang Festival, Brussels Summer Music Festival, Carpet of Flowers, and Belgian Beer Weekend. There’s so much to see and do in the summer, but keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season, so you might encounter larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
Fall:
Fall in Brussels offers a unique experience, with the city transitioning from warm, pleasant days to cooler, rainier weather. Early fall, especially September and October, is delightful, with temperatures averaging between 50°F and 65°F (10°C to 18°C). These months are perfect for exploring the city without the summer crowds, and you’ll find that prices for hotels and flights are more budget-friendly. By November, temperatures drop to around 49°F (9°C) as the city prepares for winter. Popular events in the fall include Brussels Beer Weekend, where you can taste over 400 different beers, and MegaVino Expo, a wine fair with tastings and workshops.
Winter:
Winter in Brussels is magical, particularly if you enjoy the festive Christmas season. The city turns into a winter wonderland with beautiful lights and charming Christmas markets. In the winter, the Grand Place, the main square, hosts the Brussels Christmas tree and it’s just a special place to be! Temperatures hover between 35°F and 45°F (2°C to 7°C), so bundle up to enjoy ice skating, hot chocolate, and the festive atmosphere. While it can be cold and damp, the cozy ambiance of the city’s cafes and markets more than makes up for it.
Spring:
Spring in Brussels is absolutely stunning as the city bursts into bloom with colorful flowers and lush greenery. The weather starts to warm up, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C), making it a pleasant time to visit. While spring can be rainy, with about 11 days of rain per month on average, the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful parks are worth it. Plus, visiting in spring means you can take advantage of lower prices and fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months. Some popular events in spring include the Zinneke Parade, Brussels Jazz Weekend, and the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival.
Getting To Brussels
If you’re traveling to Brussels by air, you’ll likely be flying into Brussels Airport (BRU), located about 12 km (7.5 miles) northeast of the city center.
The quickest and most convenient way to get from Brussels Airport to the city center is by taking the train. The journey from the airport to Brussels Central Station takes about 20 minutes.
Trains from Brussels Airport to Brussels Central Station run every 10 to 30 minutes, costing around €10 for a single journey.
A cheaper option is to take the bus, which runs between Brussels Airport and the city center. The journey takes 45 minutes, but tickets cost approximately €4-6.
Brussels is also served by Charleroi Airport (CRL), located about 59 km (37 miles) south of the city. The airport is connected to the city center by shuttle buses.
How to Get Around During Your One Day in Brussels
Exploring Brussels on foot is the best way to soak up the city’s atmosphere, but public transportation is also a great option if you want to cover more ground in a day. Brussels’ public transport system includes trams, buses, and the metro. The best way to use public transport is with the STIB/MIVB ticket, which allows unlimited travel for a set period.
Single tickets cost around €2.10 and are valid for 60 minutes, allowing transfers between different modes of transport. These can be purchased from ticket machines, kiosks, or via mobile apps.
If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider renting a bike. Brussels has an excellent bike-sharing system called Villo!, with rental stations located throughout the city. You can also rent a Lime electric scooter or bike all throughout the city. We used Lime quite a bit because it’s so fun!
If you want to see a lot of the main attractions in a short amount of time, you can also explore a Brussels Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour!
Is the Brussels Card Worth It For One Day?
The Brussels Card is a popular option for tourists, offering access to over 50 attractions and discounts on tours and shopping. The 24-hour Brussels Card costs around €32 and includes free entry to many museums. You could also add on unlimited public transportation for an extra €8 for the day.
If you plan to visit several attractions, the Brussels Card can be a great way to save money and skip the lines! If you plan on following this itinerary and doing as much as possible, the Brussels Card will be well worth it!
1 Day in Brussels Itinerary – Overview
For this one-day Brussels itinerary, we have included the most popular sights and our favorite gems throughout the city. We have also included some time for breaks and meals. It will be a crazy day, but this itinerary is a great way to see the highlights of Brussels in just one day!
Morning
Grand Place
Your one day in Brussels will start with an early morning visit (around 7 AM) to the Grand Place. This historic square is the heart of the city and features stunning architecture, including the famous Town Hall. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often considered the most beautiful square in all of Europe. We 100% agree!
You can also grab traditional Belgian waffles from one of the square’s many cafes. We also picked up some Belgian chocolate from Planete Chocolat, and the owner was so nice! We went to Planete Chocolat later in the evening, but we’ll get to that later. Another great thing about coming to the Grand Place this early is that it’s very empty, so you can get incredible photos!
Manneken Pis
After visiting the Grand Place, you’ll take a very short walk to Manneken Pis. Manneken Pis is probably one of the weirder popular landmarks you’ll ever see—a tiny bronze statue of a little boy peeing into a fountain. Despite its oddity, it has become an iconic Brussels symbol and is worth visiting. They even dress up the statue in different costumes throughout the year as part of the city’s tradition.
Brussels Stock Exchange
The Brussels Stock Exchange, also known as the Bourse, is a historic building that used to be the headquarters of the city’s stock exchange. Today, it is a popular attraction where tourists can admire the architecture and take photos. The building also houses a museum that showcases the history of Brussels’ stock market. As Brussels serves as the de facto capital of the European Union, it is a major financial center in Europe.
Mini Europe
A very underrated attraction in Brussels is Mini Europe, a miniature park that features replicas of famous European landmarks. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages, with detailed models of iconic structures such as the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The park also has interactive displays that provide information about each landmark and its significance in Europe. We recommend leaving the Grand Place area around 9 AM to get here when it opens at 9:30 AM!
Afternoon
Atomium
Right next to Mini Europe and one of the best places to visit in Brussels is the Atomium! You can buy combo tickets for both Mini Europe and the Atomium, and you absolutely should. The Atomium is a giant stainless steel structure designed to represent a molecule of iron. It was built for the 1958 World Expo and has since become a symbol of Brussels. We took an elevator ride to the top sphere for great views of the city and explored the various exhibitions inside each sphere. As you go up into the Atomium, there is suspenseful music and crazy lights, giving you the feeling of entering a spaceship. The Atomium was much larger than we expected and was so cool! It’s unique all around, and we enjoyed this stop more than we thought!
Royal Palace of Brussels
After the Atomium, head to the Royal Palace of Brussels! This grand palace is the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium, but it is not used as their royal residence. Instead, it serves as a place for important ceremonies and events. The Royal Palace was built in the 18th century and reminds us a lot of Buckingham Palace in London. We weren’t able to go inside, but it is well worth visiting to see the exterior, which is stunning and massive!
St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral
Just a quick 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace is the breathtaking St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral. This gothic masterpiece is truly a sight to behold, with its soaring spires and intricate architecture. It’s been a place of worship since the 9th century and is a symbol of Brussels’ religious heritage. Even if you can’t go inside, walking around the outside and admiring this cathedral is a must if you’re in the area.
Parc du Cinquantenaire
One of the best things to do in Brussels is to visit Parc du Cinquantenaire. This green park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The main attraction here is the impressive Arcades du Cinquantenaire, a triumphal arch built in 1905 to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence. We thought the arch was absolutely stunning and a must-see for fans of triumphal arches around the world! While you’re at the park, be sure to check out the museums. Autoworld offers a fantastic collection of vintage cars, while the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History provides a fascinating look into Belgium’s history. Parc du Cinquantenaire really has something for everyone!
Evening
Mount of the Arts
After a nice walk in the park, head to Mont des Arts, or Mount of the Arts, for a stunning view of Brussels. This view is iconic and you’ll often find artists and musicians performing in this area. It’s the best spot for photos, so be sure to bring your camera! You can make this stop while you’re near the Royal Palace, but we think it’s best to be here at sunset!
Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
If you’re in the mood for a quick shopping stop, you can head to the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert! This stunning shopping mall is known for its beautiful glass ceilings and luxurious boutiques. It’s a great spot to pick up some souvenirs or try some Belgian chocolate!
Back to Grand Place!
As night falls, make your way back to the Grand Place to see it lit up in all its glory! The Grand Place is a must-see during both day and night, as the stunning architecture and details of the buildings come to life when illuminated! It honestly was just so magical and we didn’t want to leave. If there’s one thing you must do in Brussels, it’s to go to Grand Place at night!!
Day Trips from Brussels
While we were in Brussels we took a couple day trips! Below are our favorites:
Paris
A very easy day trip from Brussels is Paris! Just hop on the high-speed Eurostar train and you’ll arrive in under 90 minutes. We recommend taking an early train so you have enough time to explore the beautiful city of love. Some must-see attractions include the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum. If you go early enough, you can maybe even squeeze in time for the Palace of Versailles. And of course, don’t forget to indulge in some delicious French macarons and crepes.
Amsterdam
Another popular day trip option from Brussels is Amsterdam. The train ride is just over 2 hours, making it a perfect choice for a quick getaway. A cheaper option is to take a Flix Bus which is closer to a 3 hour trip. Once in Amsterdam, be sure to take a boat tour through the canals and visit famous attractions like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. And of course, no trip to Amsterdam is complete without trying some authentic Dutch stroopwafels. We thought Amsterdam was the perfect day trip and we were able to accomplish so much in one day!
Ghent
If you want to stay closer to Brussels, consider taking a day trip to Ghent. Ghent is known for its stunning medieval architecture and delicious Belgian food. Take a stroll through the city center and explore the charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings. You can also visit famous landmarks such as Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. With just a 30 minute train ride from Brussels, Ghent is definitely worth a day trip.
Bruges
Another popular day trip from Brussels is Bruges. Bruges is just an hour train ride from Brussels, making it an easily accessible destination for a day trip. Bruges is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets. Some also call it the “Venice of the North”. Click here for the ultimate one-day in Bruges itinerary!
Where to Stay in Brussels
We believe the best place to stay in Brussels is near the Grand Place, the central square of Brussels. The area is filled with cafes, restaurants, shops, and is also within walking distance to many popular attractions such as the Manneken Pis statue and the Royal Palace. You can find a variety of accommodations in this area including hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. A few highly rated hotels near the Grand Place include Hilton Brussels Grand Place, Warwick, and Hotel Hubert.
If you want a more local experience, consider staying in the vibrant neighborhood of Saint-Gilles. This area is known for its street art, diverse food scene, and lively atmosphere. You can find many unique Airbnb options in this area such as lofts or cozy apartments. Plus, it’s only a short metro ride away from the city center.
Another great option for accommodations is the European Quarter. This area is perfect for those who want to be close to the European parliament and other major landmarks like Cinquantenaire Park. It also offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling city center.
Where to Eat in Brussels
Some popular restaurants in Brussels include Chez Leon, a classic Belgian brasserie known for its mussels and frites, and Fin de Siècle, a cozy spot for traditional Belgian dishes like stoemp and beef stew. For a more upscale dining experience, check out Villa Lorraine or Comme Chez Soi. Our personal favorite restaurant in Brussels was Nüetnigenough! It was a small, charming bistro with excellent Belgian food and a large selection of beers.
FAQs about One Day in Brussels
1. Is one day enough to see Brussels?
Yes, one day is enough to see the main highlights of Brussels. You can visit key attractions like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, and Parc du Cinquantenaire within a day if you plan your time wisely.
2. What time should I start my day in Brussels?
Starting your day around 7 AM will give you a head start to explore the city before it gets crowded. Early mornings are perfect for visiting popular spots like the Grand Place and getting great photos.
3. Where can I try Belgian waffles and chocolate?
You can find delicious Belgian waffles and chocolate near the Grand Place. Many cafes and shops around the square offer traditional Belgian waffles like the Waffle Factory. Planete Chocolat is a great spot for high-quality chocolate and the owner is so nice!
4. Is public transportation easy to use in Brussels?
Yes, Brussels has an efficient public transportation system including buses, trams, and metro lines. It’s easy to navigate and a great way to get around the city quickly.
5. Is it safe to walk around Brussels at night?
Brussels is generally safe, but like any major city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. For us, we rode scooters very late at night and never felt on edge!
Final Thoughts on this One Day in Brussels Itinerary
We can’t say enough great things about Brussels! It’s a beautiful city with plenty of history, delicious food, and friendly locals. We highly recommend adding it to your travel bucket list and using this itinerary as a guide for your one day in Brussels. Don’t forget to try the waffles and chocolate – they truly are a must try in Brussels! Our favorite memory here was definitely seeing the Grand Place at night and it’s a core memory for us. Overall, Brussels really took us by surprise and we loved our time here! We highly recommend coming even for just a day trip. Thank you so much for reading our blog, and as always, safe travels!
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