Brussels, Belgium-5-day-itinerary

Brussels: 5-Day Itinerary for the Curious Traveler

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Sleep Well Youth Hostel (centrally located, social atmosphere), Meininger Brussels City Center (modern, clean rooms)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Amigo (stylish and luxurious), Hotel Metropole (art deco charm)
  • Luxury: The Hotel Brussels (elegant with stunning views), Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo (boutique hotel with Michelin-starred restaurant)

Transportation:

  • Brussels Airport: Direct train to the city center (20 min).
  • Public Transport: Efficient metro, tram, and bus network. Purchase a MOBIB card for easy travel.
  • Walking: Brussels is walkable, but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Things to Know:

  • Belgium uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available.
  • French and Dutch are official languages, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (5-10%).
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Day 1: Grand Place & Historic Charm

  • Morning: Explore the magnificent Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the ornate guildhalls and enjoy a waffle from Maison Dandoy.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Manneken Pis, Brussels’ iconic statue. Wander through the charming Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert with its elegant boutiques.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Chez Leon, renowned for its traditional Belgian cuisine (try moules-frites!).

Day 2: Art & Comics Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Magritte Museum to delve into the surreal world of René Magritte.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Comic Strip Center and celebrate Belgium’s rich comic book heritage.
  • Evening: Savor a delicious dinner at Fin de Siècle, offering contemporary Belgian dishes with a modern twist.

Day 3: Royal History & European Flair

  • Morning: Tour the Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian monarchy (open to the public during summer).
  • Afternoon: Visit the European Quarter and marvel at the impressive buildings of the European Union institutions.
  • Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner and local beers at Delirium Café, known for its vast selection of brews.

Day 4: Parks & Chocolate Indulgence

  • Morning: Relax in the beautiful Parc du Cinquantenaire, with its museums and monuments.
  • Afternoon: Take a chocolate-making workshop at one of Brussels’ renowned chocolatiers like Neuhaus or Pierre Marcolini.
  • Evening: Dine at Le Cirio, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite modern Belgian cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip & Farewell

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Bruges (1 hour by train), a picturesque medieval city with canals and cobblestone streets.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy the charm of Bruges’ Markt square, visit the Church of Our Lady, and indulge in Belgian waffles.
  • Evening: Farewell dinner at one of Brussels’ many cozy restaurants before departing.

Tips:

  • Purchase a Brussels Card for free access to museums and public transport.
  • Sample local specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries), stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables), and speculoos cookies.
  • Visit a local market, like Place Sainte-Catherine, for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.

Enjoy your exploration of Brussels!