The Ultimate Itinerary for a Weekend in Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. A weekend in Brussels offers a perfect blend of culture, gastronomy, and leisure. In this ultimate itinerary, you will discover the must-see attractions, local delicacies to try, and tips for making the most of your visit.
This itinerary is designed to help you navigate Brussels like a local, ensuring you experience the best the city has to offer in just a couple of days.
Day One: Exploring the Heart of Brussels
Your journey begins in the heart of Brussels, where historical landmarks and modern attractions coexist beautifully.
- Morning: Grand Place - Start your day at the stunning Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the Town Hall, this central square is a must-visit. Don't forget to grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafés to soak in the atmosphere.
- Mid-Morning: Manneken Pis - Just a short walk from Grand Place, you'll find the iconic statue of Manneken Pis. This quirky bronze statue of a little boy urinating has become a symbol of Brussels' irreverent spirit. Snap a photo and continue your exploration.
- Late Morning: Mont des Arts - Stroll to Mont des Arts, a beautiful urban complex that offers stunning views of the city. The area features several museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, which showcase works by renowned artists.
- Lunch: Local Delicacies - For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant to try traditional Belgian dishes such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) or stoofvlees (beef stew). Pair your meal with a local beer for a true taste of Belgium.
After lunch, continue your journey through Brussels.
- Afternoon: Atomium - Visit the Atomium, an iconic building that resembles an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. Explore its spheres and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top.
- Evening: Sablon District - Head to the Sablon District, known for its antique shops and chocolate boutiques. Treat yourself to some of the finest Belgian chocolates from renowned chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus.
- Dinner: Belgian Waffles - For dinner, indulge in a classic Belgian waffle from a street vendor. Choose between a Brussels waffle, which is light and crispy, or a Liège waffle, which is denser and caramelized.
Wrap up your day by enjoying a stroll around the illuminated streets of Brussels, taking in the lively atmosphere.
Day Two: Culture and Cuisine
On your second day, dive deeper into the cultural offerings of Brussels while savoring the local cuisine.
- Morning: Royal Palace of Brussels - Start your day at the Royal Palace, the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the palace is only open to the public during the summer months, you can still admire its stunning architecture from the outside and stroll through the nearby Parc de Bruxelles.
- Mid-Morning: Magritte Museum - Visit the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of surrealist artist René Magritte. The museum houses the largest collection of his art, offering insight into his unique style and thought-provoking themes.
After immersing yourself in art, it’s time to refuel.
- Lunch: Belgian Frites - For lunch, try the famous Belgian frites (fries) served with a variety of delicious sauces. Head to a fritkot, a traditional fry shop, and enjoy this beloved street food.
- Afternoon: European Parliament - Take a guided tour of the European Parliament to learn about the EU's political processes and history. The Parliamentarium, the visitor center, offers interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
- Evening: Dinner at a Local Brasserie - For dinner, dine at a local brasserie that serves classic Belgian dishes. Don't miss trying carbonnade flamande, a Flemish beef stew made with beer.
After dinner, experience Brussels’ nightlife.
- Night: Delirium Café - Visit Delirium Café, famous for its extensive beer selection. With over 2,000 different beers, this lively spot is perfect for beer enthusiasts looking to sample local brews.
Weekend Tips and Highlights
To make the most of your weekend in Brussels, keep these tips in mind:
- Getting Around: Brussels has an excellent public transport system, including trams, buses, and metro. Consider purchasing a multi-journey ticket for convenience.
- Language: While both French and Dutch are official languages, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
- Currency: Belgium uses the Euro. Ensure you have cash for small purchases, especially at local markets and food stalls.
- Local Etiquette: Belgians appreciate politeness. Always greet with a “bonjour” or “goede dag” and say “merci” or “dank u” when thanking someone.
Additionally, here’s a summary of some must-try dishes and drinks:
| Dish/Drink | Description |
|---|---|
| Moules-Frites | Mussels served with crispy fries, often garnished with herbs and served with a variety of sauces. |
| Stoofvlees | A hearty beef stew made with beer, typically served with fries or bread. |
| Belgian Waffles | Light and crispy or dense and caramelized waffles, topped with whipped cream, fruits, or chocolate. |
| Carbonnade Flamande | A rich Flemish stew made with beef and beer, perfect for warming up on a cold day. |
| Belgian Beer | Known for its diversity, try varieties like Trappist, Abbey, and Lambic beers. |
As your weekend in Brussels concludes, take a moment to reflect on the memories made and the flavors savored. This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Brussels, ensuring that your visit is not only enjoyable but also filled with cultural richness.
Whether you're wandering through historic streets, indulging in delectable dishes, or soaking in the local atmosphere, Brussels is a city that promises to leave a lasting impression.