Brussels-7-day-itinerary

Brussels 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Brussels Airport (BRU) and take the train (15 minutes, €10) or taxi (30 minutes, €40-50) to your accommodation.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the city center at a hotel like Hotel des Galeries or an Airbnb apartment.
  • Lunch: Try some traditional Belgian waffles at Wafel & Co.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the nearby Manneken Pis statue.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 2: European Institutions

  • Morning: Visit the European Parliament (free guided tours) and learn about the EU’s history and functions.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at Le Funambule, a trendy café near the European institutions.
  • Afternoon: Explore the European Commission and Council buildings, and stroll through the adjacent Leopold Park.
  • Evening: Enjoy a Belgian beer at Delirium Café, which offers over 3,000 beers.

Day 3: Art and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts (free admission) to see an impressive collection of Belgian art.
  • Lunch: Head to Fin de Siecle, a cozy bistro serving traditional dishes.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the life and work of René Magritte.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Bozar Center for Fine Arts (check schedules).

Day 4: Comics and Chocolate

  • Morning: Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center (€10) to learn about the country’s rich comic book history.
  • Lunch: Indulge in some delicious chocolate at Pierre Marcolini.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of shops and cafes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Coin des Artistes, a restaurant serving creative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 5: Atomium and Expo

  • Morning: Visit the iconic Atomium (€12) and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
  • Lunch: Head to Expo Brussels for a meal at one of its many food stalls.
  • Afternoon: Explore the adjacent Mini-Europe theme park (€15.90).
  • Evening: Relax with a drink at The Dominican, a stylish hotel bar.

Day 6: Day Trip to Bruges

  • Morning: Take the train (1 hour, €10) to Bruges, a medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at De Halve Maan, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish dishes.
  • Afternoon: Explore Bruges’ historic center, including the Belfry Tower and Church of Our Lady.
  • Evening: Return to Brussels and enjoy dinner at L’Idiot du Village.

Day 7: Markets and Departure

  • Morning: Visit the Marolles flea market (free admission) for a unique shopping experience.
  • Lunch: Grab some street food at the Gare du Midi market (free admission).
  • Afternoon: Return to your accommodation, collect your belongings, and head back to Brussels Airport (BRU) for your departure.

Things to Know

  • Language: Official languages are Dutch, French, and German, but many locals speak English.
  • Currency: Euro
  • Weather: Pack layers for unpredictable Belgian weather.
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Transportation

  • Metro: Efficient and extensive network (€2.10 per ride or €7.60 for a day pass)
  • Bus: Convenient for shorter distances (€2.10 per ride or €7.60 for a day pass)
  • Taxi: Available, but more expensive than public transportation
  • Bike: Rent a bike (€10-20 per day) to explore the city.

Tips

  • Buy a Brussels Card (€24-43) for discounts and free admission to attractions.
  • Try some Belgian fries at a friterie like Maison Antoine.
  • Explore the city’s many parks, such as the Bois de la Cambre or the Cinquantenaire Park.

Other Interests

  • Visit the NATO Headquarters (free guided tours)
  • Take a brewery tour at Cantillon Brewery
  • Explore the Saint-Gilles neighborhood’s street art scene