Brussels itinerary — 2 days
Day 1 — Brussels
6 stops · ≈ 5 h 25 minManneken Pis is a 17th-century fountain in Brussels featuring a small bronze statue of a boy urinating into the basin. This quirky landmark, created by Jerome Duquesnoy, has become an iconic symbol of Brussels' humor and folklore. Despite its small size (only 60 cm high), it is one of the most photographed statues in the city. The statue is known for its extensive wardrobe of over 600 outfits, with different costumes displayed during festivals and events throughout the year.
Grand Place is a massive city square surrounded by elegant historic buildings dating back to the 14th century. It is the heart of all activities in Brussels, featuring the Town Hall with a statue of St. Michael the Archangel and the Maison du Roi, both showcasing stunning Gothic architecture. The square hosts the breathtaking Infiorata event every even year, where it's covered with a carpet of flowers from over five hundred thousand begonia plants.
Delirium Café is a popular tourist spot in Brussels known for its extensive beer selection, boasting over 3,000 brews available. The bar spans three floors and offers a variety of settings, including a taproom and the quieter 'Hoppy Loft.' Additionally, it features live music on Thursday evenings. Adjacent to the café is Floris Bar, specializing in absinthe, tequila, and jenever.
Jeanneke Pis is a statue of a young girl located in Brussels, considered by some to be the sister monument to the well-known Manneken Pis. It was built in 1987 as a female counterpart to the famous Manneken Pis. The statue depicts a little girl squatting and urinating, showcasing Belgium's sense of humor. Some visitors even prefer Jeanneke Pis over Manneken-Pis for her shameless and cheeky expression.
The St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral, also known as the Cathedrale des Sts Michel et Gudule, is Belgium's national church and a significant venue for royal ceremonies. This Gothic-style cathedral features two imposing symmetrical towers and houses remarkable works of art such as a Baroque carved wooden pulpit from 1699, 17th-century oak confessionals, decorative stained-glass windows, and the impressive Grenzing organ.
The Atomium, a colossal stainless steel structure in Brussels, was the centerpiece of the 1958 Worlds Fair. It symbolizes peace, progress, and an optimistic vision of the future. The design is based on the elemental structure of iron and represents a shift towards using atomic energy for positive purposes. Initially intended as a temporary installation, it captured the hearts of Belgians and has become one of Brussels' most renowned attractions.
Reserve
7If you have time left — worth it too.
The European Parliament, the central institution of the European Union's political landscape, invites visitors to explore its workings through The Parlamentarium. This interactive center showcases the Parliament's multilingual nature and offers engaging displays that highlight its role in the EU's democratic system. Guided tours provide insights into the legislative body's functions and decision-making processes, while multimedia presentations delve into its history and impact on EU citizens' lives.
The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a captivating complex that showcases over 20,000 artistic works, making it an essential stop for art lovers exploring Brussels. This impressive ensemble consists of six museums, including the renowned Magritte Museum, which houses the largest collection of surrealist René Magritte's pieces. Visitors can delve into his unique perspective on art and life through more than 250 works.
Abbaye de la Cambre, also known as Abdij Ter Kameren, is a historic Cistercian abbey in the Ixelles area of Brussels. The abbey complex includes a Catholic parish, a community of Norbertine canons, the National Geographic Institute, and La Cambre visual arts school. The picturesque gardens sprawl across multiple levels and are a highlight for visitors. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers quiet contemplation with its small church and terraced gardens.
Tour & Taxis, located on the Brussels Canal, is a unique and vibrant space that was once a freight station but has now been transformed into Gare Maritime. This expansive building hosts various activities, restaurants, and festivals. The renovated Pavilion structure with its wooden elements and ample natural light is particularly impressive. Families can enjoy a range of activities including the Bubble Planet for young kids and the Museum of Illusions. The Pixel museum showcases the evolution of video gaming with functioning old consoles.
The Musée bruxellois de la gueuze, located in the old Evere wind moulin, offers a traditional brewery experience with beer cellars and brewing equipment dating back to 1900. Visitors can embark on self-guided tours with informative guidebooks and explore various stages of the brewery at their own pace. The museum also hosts guided tours on Saturdays, offering insights into the brewing process from passionate hosts.
The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is a grand Roman Catholic place of worship, boasting an impressive art deco style with towering cupolas. It stands as the world's fifth largest cathedral and houses two museums, a theater, and a restaurant in its basement. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views comparable to those from the Atomium. The basilica also features The Black Sisters Museum showcasing historical dinnerware and The Modern Religious Art Museum exhibiting paintings and sculptures.
Autoworld, located in the heart of Brussels, is a renowned vintage car museum housed within the South Hall of Parc du Cinquantenaire. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 250 cars from European and American manufacturers, including presidential limousines and vehicles belonging to the Belgian royal family. Visitors can explore the evolution of automobiles through different historical periods, from La Belle Epoque to World Wars I and II, as well as the European Golden Age of Capitalism.
- Purchase a Brussels Card for free access to public transport and discounts on attractions.
- Always validate your metro ticket before boarding.
- Try to learn a few basic phrases in French or Dutch, as locals appreciate the effort.