Brussels-5-day-itinerary

Brussels: A 5-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Brussels! This itinerary explores the best of this charming Belgian capital, balancing iconic landmarks with hidden gems and delicious food experiences.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Sleep Well Youth Hostel, Meininger Brussels City Center
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Amigo, The Dominican
  • Luxury: Hotel Metropole, Rosewood Brussels

Transportation:

Brussels is incredibly walkable. Public transport (metro, trams, buses) is efficient and affordable. Consider a “Brussels Card” for unlimited travel and free entry to many museums.

Things to Know:

  • Language: French, Dutch, German (English widely spoken)
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tipping: Not obligatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated.

Day 1: Grand Place & Historic Charm

  • Morning: Explore the breathtaking Grand Place (Grote Markt), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the ornate guildhalls and Town Hall. Climb the Belfry for panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Manneken Pis, the iconic bronze statue of a peeing boy. Stroll through the charming Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, filled with luxury boutiques and chocolatiers.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner at Chez Leon (Moules-frites are a must!) followed by a beer tasting at Delirium Café, famous for its vast selection of beers.

Day 2: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the surrealist painter René Magritte. Explore the Belgian Comic Strip Center for a fun dive into comic history.
  • Afternoon: Discover the vibrant street art scene in the Marolles district, known for its vintage shops and flea market (Sundays).
  • Evening: Catch a performance at La Monnaie, Brussels’ renowned opera house, or enjoy live music at one of the many bars in the Ixelles neighborhood.

Day 3: Royal History & Chocolate Indulgence

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace, open to the public during summer months. Explore the nearby Parc de Bruxelles for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
  • Afternoon: Treat yourself to a chocolate workshop at one of Brussels’ famous chocolatiers (Pierre Marcolini, Neuhaus, Godiva). Indulge in delicious pralines and learn about the art of chocolate making.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Fin de Siècle, known for its modern Belgian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Day 4: Day Trip to Ghent or Bruges

  • Morning: Take a train (approx. 30 minutes) to Ghent, a medieval city with charming canals and historic architecture. Visit St. Bavo Cathedral and Gravensteen castle.
  • Afternoon: Alternatively, head to Bruges, known as the “Venice of the North”. Explore the Markt (market square), see the Belfry tower, and take a romantic canal boat ride.
  • Evening: Return to Brussels and have dinner at La Quincaillerie, a restaurant housed in a former hardware store with a unique industrial-chic ambiance.

Day 5: Museums & Farewell

  • Morning: Visit the Atomium, a futuristic landmark offering stunning views of Brussels. Explore Mini-Europe, a miniature park showcasing famous European landmarks.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping at Place du Jeu de Balle flea market.

Say goodbye to Brussels with a delicious waffle and a cup of Belgian coffee at Maison Dandoy.

Tips:

  • Purchase the “Brussels Card” for free public transport and museum entry.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases, though English is widely spoken.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Embrace the Belgian beer culture – try different styles and breweries!