Brussels Belgium 7 Day Itinerary
7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Brussels, Belgium
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Centre
- Morning: Arrive at Brussels Airport (BRU) or Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL). Take a taxi or train to your accommodation.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Grand Place (Grote Markt), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
- Explore the surrounding streets, filled with cafes, shops, and street performers.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at ‘T Kelderke, a traditional Belgian restaurant serving local dishes like carbonade flamande and waterzooi.
- Accommodation: Stay at Hotel des Galeries, a boutique hotel located in the heart of Brussels.
Day 2: Museums and Culture
- Morning:
- Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, featuring an impressive collection of Belgian and European art.
- Stop by the Museum of Musical Instruments, showcasing over 8,000 instruments from around the world.
- Afternoon: Relax at the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the city centre.
- Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Théâtre de la Monnaie, one of Europe’s most prestigious opera houses.
Day 3: Waffles, Chocolate, and Beer
- Morning:
- Indulge in a delicious Belgian waffle at Wafel & Co, a popular breakfast spot.
- Visit the Choco-Story Museum, dedicated to the history of chocolate making in Belgium.
- Afternoon: Take a guided tour at the Cantillon Brewery, one of Brussels’ oldest and most famous breweries.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Flandre, serving traditional Flemish cuisine.
Day 4: Atomium, EU Quarter, and Parks
- Morning:
- Visit the iconic Atomium, a symbol of Brussels and a must-see attraction.
- Explore the nearby EU Quarter, home to many European institutions and organizations.
- Afternoon: Relax at the Cinquantenaire Park, a beautiful green space with gardens, lakes, and walking trails.
- Evening: Dine at Comme Chez Soi, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Belgian cuisine.
Day 5: Day Trip to Bruges
- Morning: Take an early train from Brussels South (Midi) station to Bruges ( approx. 1 hour journey).
- Day:
- Explore the medieval town of Bruges, including the Belfry Tower, Church of Our Lady, and Rozenhoedkaai.
- Enjoy lunch at a traditional Flemish restaurant, such as De Karmeliet.
- Evening: Return to Brussels by train and enjoy dinner at Le Funambule, serving modern French cuisine.
Day 6: Comics, Fashion, and Nightlife
- Morning:
- Visit the Belgian Comic Strip Center, showcasing Belgium’s rich comic book heritage.
- Explore the trendy Danforth neighborhood, known for its fashion boutiques and street art.
- Evening: Enjoy a night out in the Saint-Gilles neighborhood, famous for its bars, clubs, and lounges.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market, such as the Marolles Flea Market.
- Afternoon: Depart for the airport or continue your journey to other destinations in Belgium or Europe.
Things to Know
- Language: Official languages are Dutch, French, and German. Many Belgians speak English fluently.
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Weather: Brussels has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers.
- Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your personal safety, especially at night.
Transportation
- Metro: An efficient network of six lines connecting the city centre with outlying districts.
- Bus: Extensive network of buses covering the entire city.
- Taxi: Available at designated taxi stands or by phone.
- Bike: Brussels has a bike-sharing system, and cycling is a great way to explore the city.
Tips
- Buy a Brussels Card, which grants access to many attractions, public transportation, and discounts at participating restaurants and shops.
- Try some of Belgium’s famous beers, such as Westvleteren or Chimay.
- Be prepared for variable weather and pack accordingly.
- Learn some basic Dutch or French phrases to show respect for the local culture.
Other Things of Interest
- Markets: Visit the Grand Sablon antiques market on Saturdays and Sundays or the Marolles Flea Market on Wednesdays and weekends.
- Day Trips: Consider visiting other Belgian cities, such as Antwerp, Ghent, or Leuven.
- Festivals: Brussels hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Zinneke Parade, Brussels Jazz Festival, and Tomorrowland.