Itineraries for Your Trip to Brussels
1 Day in Brussels for First Timers
I can never get enough of Brussels, no matter how many times I visit this capital city of Belgium. At spots such as the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert, you can admire the baroque and Gothic architecture and then turn the corner to find a hilarious mural painted on a wall. That artistic juxtaposition keeps me coming back for more whenever I have the chance.
With one day in Brussels, I'd recommend walking as much as you can. It's the best way to see the city center and neighborhoods beyond. You'll also have plenty of opportunities to try local delicacies such as sweet liège waffles and hearty stews. Here's how to experience the best of Brussels in one day.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a chocolate-tasting tour.
You can expect cool, damp winters and mild summers in Brussels.
Kick off your Brussels visit by walking through the city and taking in the art nouveau and baroque architecture while visiting top spots, such as Grande-Place (Grote Markt) and Market Square (Markt). You'll see plenty of cartoon-inspired art throughout the city, including scenes from TinTin and The Smurfs. If you want to learn why Brussels is considered the "capital of comics," a stop at the Comic Art Museum is a must.
Brussels is known for its chocolate and beer, and a brewery tour can be a great way to experience your afternoon in the city. While walking around the city, watch for the most famous child in Brussels, Manneken Pis, and pick up a souvenir of his likeness (you can find them nearly everywhere). After you've gotten your steps in, a stop at a chocolate shop or two is in order. Many offer samples, and you'll want to try lots of them to be sure you've found the city's best.
If you've spent your day in the city center, make your way to some of the smaller, quaint neighborhoods, such as Marolles and Sablon, to experience what life is like there in the evening. You'll find vintage shops full of treasures, tiny coffee shops, and restaurants where you can order large bowls of moules-frite, mussels cooked in a delicate white wine sauce and served with crispy fried potatoes. It's the ideal end to a day in Brussels.
