19 Best Things to do in Brussels, Belgium, in 1 to 3 days

Introduction

Brussels, the capital and largest city of Belgium, is home to over 1.2 million people spread across just 162 km². The city has two official languages—Dutch and French—but you’ll find that English works just fine for getting around.

For many travelers, Brussels is the gateway to Belgium and also the political heart of Europe, being the seat of the European Parliament. Despite its global importance, the historical center is compact and charming, with the breathtaking Grand Place at its heart.

Brussels is the perfect spot for a short city break: easy to explore in a couple of days, full of history, and of course, the best place to indulge in world-famous Belgian chocolate.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels

Getting there

Brussels is one of the easiest cities in Europe to reach. The city has its own international airport, Brussels Airport (BRU), located about 12 km from the city center. From the airport, you can hop on a direct train that gets you to Brussels Central Station in around 20 minutes.

If you’re already in Europe, the train is one of the best ways to arrive. Brussels is a hub for high-speed trains like the Thalys and Eurostar, connecting it with Paris (1h30), Amsterdam (2h), London (2h15), and Cologne (1h45).

For those driving, Brussels is well connected by highways to France, the Netherlands, and Germany. Just keep in mind that parking in the city center can be expensive, so it’s often easier to leave your car at a P+R (park and ride) outside the city and take public transport in.

Moving Around

Brussels is compact enough that you can explore much of the historic city center on foot. The cobbled streets, small squares, and cozy alleys are best discovered at a slower pace.

For longer distances, the city has a reliable public transportation system (STIB/MIVB) with metros, trams, and buses that cover the entire city and suburbs. A single ticket works on all three and can be bought at stations, kiosks, or via app.

If you prefer more flexibility, Brussels also has rental bikes and e-scooters, which are perfect for short rides. Just keep in mind that the streets can be a bit hilly and sometimes crowded. Also, you can use the Brussels Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.

Driving isn’t the most convenient option in Brussels, as traffic can get heavy and parking is limited in the city center. If you’re arriving with a car, it’s often easier to park outside and rely on public transport or walking while exploring the main sights.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

When to Visit

Brussels is a year-round destination, but the experience changes a lot with the seasons.

• Spring (March–May): One of the best times to visit. The weather is mild, parks and gardens are in bloom, and the city feels lively without being overcrowded. If you’re lucky, you can catch the famous Flower Carpet (every two years in August, but smaller floral events also pop up in spring).
• Summer (June–August): Warm and buzzing with outdoor events, music festivals, and terrace cafés. It’s also peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher hotel prices.
• Autumn (September–November): Cooler weather but still pleasant. Autumn colors in Brussels’ many parks make this season especially charming. Fewer tourists mean a calmer atmosphere.
• Winter (December–February): Cold and often rainy, but also magical thanks to the Christmas Market and cozy festive lights. A great time if you enjoy a winter city break with mulled wine and chocolate.

Our tip: Late spring and early autumn are the sweet spots—good weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of things happening in the city.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a short city break in Brussels, it’s best to stay close to the center so you can easily explore the main sights on foot or with quick public transport connections. Here are a few great options across different budgets:

(€) B&B HOTEL Brussels Centre Gare du Midi: A practical choice right next to the city’s main train station. Perfect if you’re arriving by train or planning day trips from Brussels. Simple, modern, and affordable.

(€€) Yadoya Hotel: A stylish, Japanese-inspired boutique hotel just a short walk from the city center. Comfortable rooms with a unique design, plus easy access to public transport.

(€€€) Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo: Located just steps from the Grand Place, this 5-star hotel combines luxury with history. Elegant rooms, excellent service, and the best location for exploring Brussels in style.

Our tip: Stay at least 2 nights to really enjoy Brussels — enough time to see the highlights, taste some chocolate and waffles, and maybe add a day trip.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels

What to Eat

Food is a huge part of the Brussels experience, and the city is famous for some absolute classics you shouldn’t miss:

• Belgian Waffles – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, topped with chocolate, cream, fruit, or simply powdered sugar. You’ll find stands all over the city.
• Belgian Fries (Frites) – Served in paper cones with your choice of sauce. Try them with mayonnaise or the local specialty “andalouse” sauce.
• Moules-Frites (Mussels with Fries) – A Belgian signature dish, often cooked with white wine, garlic, or cream. (Vegetarians can skip the mussels and just indulge in the fries!)
• Stoofvlees (Flemish Stew) – A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in beer, usually served with fries. For a vegetarian alternative, try a mushroom or veggie stew in a local brasserie.
• Chocolate & Pralines – Brussels is chocolate heaven. Don’t miss artisanal shops like Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, or Leonidas.
• Beer – Belgium is home to some of the world’s best beers. From Trappist ales to fruity lambics, you’ll find a huge variety. Many restaurants and bars can suggest food pairings.

For vegetarians, Brussels is increasingly friendly, with lots of cafés and restaurants offering veggie or vegan twists on Belgian classics

Things to do in Brussels

Explore Mont des Arts

Mont des Arts is one of the most scenic spots in Brussels and a perfect place for a stroll. Sitting on a hilltop, this urban complex and historical site offers sweeping views over the city. From here, you can spot the spire of the Town Hall rising above the rooftops, making it one of the most photographed places in town.

The area brings together some of Brussels’ most important cultural institutions, including the Royal Library of Belgium, the National Archives, and the modern Square – Brussels Meeting Centre. Between them lies a beautifully designed public garden with geometric lawns, fountains, and flowerbeds that change with the seasons.

Tip: You should consider the Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. It’s the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians, though it’s not actually used as their residence—the royal family lives at the Royal Palace of Laeken instead.

The palace stands proudly facing Brussels Park and is open to visitors during the summer months, offering a glimpse inside its grand halls and lavishly decorated rooms. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior itself is worth the stop. Its neoclassical façade and sheer size make it one of the most striking buildings in Brussels.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Stroll Through Brussels Park

Right across from the Royal Palace, you’ll find Brussels Park, the largest green space in the city center. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a slower pace. Wide tree-lined paths, fountains, and statues give the park a very elegant feel, while locals come here to jog, walk their dogs, or simply relax on a bench.

If you’re visiting on a sunny day, it’s a great place to sit down with a coffee or snack and just people-watch. The park often hosts open-air events and concerts, so you might even catch some live music if you’re lucky.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels

Wander Around Marché aux Herbes

Marché aux Herbes is one of the most charming squares in Brussels, right in the heart of the city. Surrounded by cobbled streets and historic buildings, it’s the kind of place where you’ll naturally end up while exploring the center. The square is lively, with plenty of cafés and restaurants spilling onto the sidewalks, making it a great spot to pause for a drink or quick bite.

Explore the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is one of Brussels’ most elegant spots to wander. Opened in 1847, this glass-roofed arcade is filled with luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, cafés, and theaters. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth strolling through just to admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere.

And while this is the most famous gallery, it’s not the only one in town. As you explore the center of Brussels, you’ll likely stumble across other charming arcades tucked between the streets—each with its own character and surprises.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

Visit St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral

Like many European cities, Brussels has its own grand cathedral, and it’s well worth stepping inside. The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula is a stunning example of Brabantine Gothic architecture, dating back to the 13th century.

Its twin towers dominate the skyline, and the interior is just as impressive, with soaring vaults, intricate stained-glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the busy city outside.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Explore the Grand Place – Grote Markt

The heart of Brussels and without a doubt its most beautiful square, the Grand Place (Grote Markt) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see on any visit. Surrounded by ornate guildhalls and impressive buildings, the square is a showcase of stunning Flemish architecture. The standout landmarks here are the Town Hall, with its soaring spire, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi / Broodhuis), which today houses the Brussels City Museum.

It’s a lively spot at any time of day—whether you’re admiring the details of the facades in the morning light or soaking up the atmosphere in the evening when everything is beautifully lit. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of the events or markets that regularly take place here.

And be sure to come back at night, it is even more beautiful.

Visit the Brussels Stock Exchange – Belgian Beer World

The Brussels Stock Exchange (Bourse de Bruxelles) is one of the city’s most striking buildings, with its neoclassical façade and ornate sculptures. Recently renovated, it now houses Belgian Beer World, a modern museum dedicated to Belgium’s world-famous brewing tradition.

Inside, you can dive into the history of Belgian beer, learn about the brewing process, and discover why the country’s beer culture is recognized by UNESCO. Of course, no visit would be complete without tasting a few varieties—your ticket includes a beer sampling at the rooftop bar, which also offers beautiful views of Brussels.

Tip: Don’t waste time with the Belgian Beer World Ticket with Rooftop & Free Beer

Explore the Atomium

Make your way to the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. Built for the 1958 World’s Fair (Expo 58), this futuristic structure represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times.

The building’s nine spheres are connected by tubes that you can walk through, with exhibitions inside and stunning panoramic views of the city from the top sphere. Even if you don’t go in, the Atomium is worth a visit for its striking design and photo opportunities.

It’s a symbol of post-war optimism and a must-see for anyone visiting Brussels.

Tip: Get your Atomium Entry Ticket with Design Museum Ticket online

Rue Neuve

Rue Neuve is Brussels’ busiest shopping street and one of the most famous in Belgium. Lined with international brands, local shops, and plenty of cafés, it’s always buzzing with life. Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s worth a stroll just to soak in the energy of the city and watch locals go about their day.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels

La Monnaie (De Munt)

La Monnaie, also called De Munt, is Brussels’ historic opera house and one of Europe’s most prestigious theaters. The building itself is stunning, with elegant neoclassical architecture and a rich cultural history dating back to the 18th century. If you can, check out the schedule—seeing an opera, ballet, or concert here is a unique way to experience Brussels’ artistic side.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Chocolate Stores

No trip to Brussels is complete without indulging in its world-class chocolate. The city is filled with legendary chocolatiers like Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, Godiva, and Leonidas. Many of the shops have gorgeous displays and let you sample their creations before buying. Whether you’re looking for pralines, truffles, or just a box of treats to take home, visiting at least one (or two!) chocolate stores is a must.

Tip: If you are into chocolate, check the Chocolate Museum Visit with Workshop

Street Art & Cartoon Characters

Brussels takes its comic strip heritage seriously—you’ll find giant murals of Tintin, Lucky Luke, the Smurfs, and many more scattered across the city. These colorful artworks turn ordinary buildings into works of art and make walking through the city a fun treasure hunt. If you’re a fan, you can even follow the official Comic Strip Route to see all the murals.

Place des Martyrs

Tucked away in the city center, Place des Martyrs is a quiet square with elegant neoclassical buildings and a strong historical significance. It’s dedicated to the martyrs of the Belgian Revolution in 1830, and the atmosphere here is calm and reflective compared to the busier streets around it. It’s a nice place to take a short break and soak in a piece of Belgian history.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Manneken Pis (and Jeanneke Pis & Zinneke Pis)

It might be tiny, but Manneken Pis is probably the most famous statue in Brussels. The cheeky little boy fountain has become a symbol of the city, and locals even dress him up in costumes for special occasions. If you’re curious, you can also check out his “sister” Jeanneke Pis (a girl squatting fountain) and Zinneke Pis (a peeing dog statue).

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Parc du Cinquantenaire (Cinquantenaire Park)

This huge park is one of the most beautiful green spaces in Brussels, with a massive triumphal arch, wide lawns, and impressive museums like the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Autoworld. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic away from the city buzz.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels

European Quarter

Since Brussels is the political heart of the EU, visiting the European Quarter is a must. You can see the European Parliament, wander around Place du Luxembourg, and learn about the EU at the free Parlamentarium visitor center.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken (seasonal)

If you happen to be in Brussels in spring (usually mid-April to early May), don’t miss the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken. They’re only open a few weeks each year and filled with exotic plants and flowers inside incredible glass domes.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Day Trip to Bruges

Take a day trip to the charming town of Bruges, often called the Venice of the North. The city is a fairy-tale mix of canals, cobblestone streets, and perfectly preserved medieval buildings.

Wander around the Markt square, climb the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views, or enjoy a boat ride along the canals. Bruges is also a paradise for chocolate lovers, with countless artisanal shops to try.

It’s one of Belgium’s most picturesque towns and an easy trip from Brussels by train or car.

Tip: This Guided Day Trip to Bruges and Ghent is the best one

Brussels Itinerary

Day 1:

• Grand Place (Grote Markt) – Start your trip at the heart of Brussels, surrounded by stunning guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’s House.
• Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert – Wander through this elegant 19th-century arcade filled with chocolate shops, cafés, and boutiques.
• St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral – Admire one of Belgium’s most beautiful Gothic churches.
• Manneken Pis & Jeanneke Pis – Track down the city’s most famous quirky statues.
• Marché aux Herbes & Rue Neuve – Explore one of the city’s prettiest squares and the bustling shopping street.
• Mont des Arts – Stroll through this cultural hill with its garden, statues, and great city views.
• Royal Palace of Brussels & Brussels Park – Visit the palace (open in summer) and then enjoy a relaxed walk in the park.
• Evening – Enjoy a hearty Belgian dinner (think moules-frites, stoofvlees, or waffles for dessert).

Day 2

• Atomium – Visit this futuristic structure from the 1958 World’s Fair and enjoy the panoramic views.
• European Quarter – See the European Parliament and check out the free Parlamentarium museum.
• Cartoon Hunt – Walk around the city to spot colorful murals of famous Belgian comic characters like Tintin and the Smurfs.
• Chocolate Stores – Stop by Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, or Leonidas for pralines.
• Place des Martyrs & La Monnaie – Discover this peaceful neoclassical square, then admire the façade of Brussels’ Royal Theatre.
• Evening – Head to a traditional brasserie or pub to try Belgian beers with local dishes.

Day 3:

• Day Trip – Spend the day in Bruges or Ghent for a taste of another Belgian gem.

Here are all your accommodation options in Brussels