Brussels 3 Day Itinerary

Brussels: A 3-Day Itinerary

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Dutch, French, German (English widely spoken)
  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) or Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather.

Transportation:

  • Brussels Airport (BRU): Well-connected to the city center by train (20 minutes).
  • Public Transport: Efficient metro, tram, and bus network. Purchase a “Mobib” card for easy travel.
  • Walking: Brussels is very walkable, especially within the historic center.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Meininger Brussels City Center, Jam Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Amigo, The Dominican
  • Luxury: Steigenberger Wiltcher’s, Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo

Day 1: Grand Place & Chocolate Delights

  • Morning:

    • Arrive in Brussels and check into your hotel.
    • Start at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning guildhalls and architecture. Take photos and soak in the atmosphere.
    • Climb the Town Hall Tower for panoramic views of the city.

  • Afternoon:

    • Indulge in Belgian chocolate at Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, or Godiva. Join a chocolate-making workshop to learn the art of creating these delicious treats.
    • Explore the nearby Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, an elegant covered arcade with shops and cafes.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy dinner at Chez Leon, famous for its traditional mussels and fries.
    • For a unique experience, have a beer tasting at Delirium Cafe, boasting over 2000 beers.

Day 2: Art Nouveau & Comic Strip History

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Horta Museum, showcasing the works of Victor Horta, a pioneer of Art Nouveau architecture.
    • Wander through the Ixelles district, known for its charming Art Nouveau houses and cafes.

  • Afternoon:

    • Discover the world of Belgian comics at the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Learn about Tintin, Smurfs, and other beloved characters.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy a leisurely dinner in the trendy Flagey neighborhood, known for its restaurants and bars.
    • Catch a performance at the Palais des Beaux-Arts (BOZAR), offering a diverse range of cultural events.

Day 3: Atomium & Royal History

  • Morning:

    • Take a tram to the Atomium, an iconic structure built for the 1958 World’s Fair. Enjoy breathtaking views from the top and explore its interactive exhibits.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian monarch (open during summer months).
    • Explore the nearby Parc du Cinquantenaire, a sprawling park with museums, monuments, and green spaces.

  • Evening:

    • Have a farewell dinner at one of Brussels’ many excellent restaurants.
    • Enjoy a final beer at a local bar before heading to the airport.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Brussels Card for free entry to many attractions and discounts on transport.
  • Try Belgian specialties: Moules-frites, waffles, frites (fries), speculoos cookies.
  • Learn some basic French or Dutch phrases.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Mini-Europe: A miniature park showcasing European landmarks.
  • Musical Instruments Museum (MIM): A fascinating collection of musical instruments from around the world.
  • Magritte Museum: Dedicated to the surrealist painter René Magritte.