Brussels city is full of stunning sights, tasty treats, and a lively atmosphere that you won’t want to miss. With my two-day itinerary in Brussels, I’ll guide you through the must-see spots and hidden treasures, all while keeping your expenses in check. So grab your walking shoes, and let’s embark on a fun adventure in this beautiful city!
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Table of Contents
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Brussels
Although Brussels is small, don’t underestimate this beautiful city as it offers a plethora of attractions, restaurants, beer bars, impressive monuments, incredible parks and so much more. So, I thought it would be a good idea to give you 2 different options for each day you stay in Brussels.
Option One
Breakfast Bliss!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of these cozy spots:
- Latté Art: Rue Du Midi 28, 1000 Bruxelles (€1–10)
- Boudin Cafe: Rue Ravenstein 29, 1000 Bruxelles (€1–10)
- Café Capitale: Rue Du Midi 45, 1000 Bruxelles (€1–10)
Grab a warm pastry or a tasty coffee—trust me, you’ll want that energy for the adventures ahead!
Morning: Marvel at The Grand Place
After breakfast, take a stroll to The Grand Place. This stunning square is the heart of Brussels, and it’s absolutely breathtaking with its gold-trimmed buildings and lively atmosphere.
While you’re there, pop into the Brussels City Museum (10€). It’s got an impressive collection of over 7,000 items, including beautiful paintings and tapestries that dive into the city’s rich history. Don’t miss checking out the original sculptures from the Town Hall—they’re pretty cool!
Not far from the Grand Place, you’ll find the famous Manneken Pis and Everard t’Serclaes. Legend has it that touching Everard’s arms or head brings good luck, so, give it a try!
Wander through the charming narrow streets around the square. You’ll stumble upon cute shops and cafes, then make your way to the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This beautiful arcade is a chocolate lover’s paradise—perfect for picking up some sweet souvenirs!
Just nearby, there is the Rue Des Bouchers, a historic pedestrian street filled with bars and restaurants. It’s a great spot to soak up the local atmosphere while enjoying the cobblestone charm. Many artists showcase their work, and in the summer the place is full of tourists, which is fun but can be not so pleasant for some people.
Afternoon: Lunch Break
After all that exploring, it’s time to refuel! Here are some affordable places to grab a bite:
- Tonton Garby: Rue Duquesnoy 6, 1000 Bruxelles (€1–10)
- Plaka: Rue du Marché aux Fromages 6, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20)
- L’Express: Rue des Chapeliers 8, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20)
Dig into some tasty local eats and recharge for the afternoon!
Late Afternoon: Sweet Treats and Museums
Now that you’re all fueled up, it’s time to indulge your sweet tooth! Brussels is famous for its chocolate, so you can join a chocolate tour or stroll to Place du Sablon and check out some shops. Make sure to try the pralines—they’re a must!
Once you’ve satisfied your chocolate cravings, pick a museum that catches your interest. If you love music, the Musical Instruments Museum (€ 15) is a blast!
And if you’re feeling playful, the Comic Strip Center (€14.00) is a fun and budget-friendly choice that celebrates Belgium’s comic culture!
Evening: Belgian Beer Experience
Wrap up your day with some world-famous Belgian beer! Head over to Delirium Café, where you’ll find a jaw-dropping selection of over 2,000 beers. Seriously, it’s a beer lover’s dream! If you want to explore more, check out other popular spots like Black Door (Porte Noir), Poechenellekelder, or Beer Capital Brussels. Most beer bars serve tasty fries (frites), cheese cubes, or sausages to munch on while you sip your beer!
For a little extra fun, consider joining a beer-tasting tour to learn about the different styles and brewing methods.
Option Two:
Morning: Enjoy a Nice Breakfast!
Start your day with a cozy breakfast at the following:
- To Meli Delicatessen: Rue Breydel 50, 1040 Bruxelles ( €1–10)
- BOUCHE – Specialty Coffee: Rue Froissart 43A, 1040 Etterbeek (€1–10)
- Caffeine – Specialty Coffee & Delicatessen: Rue Van Maerlant 13, 1040 Bruxelles ( €1–10)
These charming spots are near Parc du Cinquantenaire. Treat yourself to a delicious pastry and a strong coffee to fuel up for the adventures ahead. The atmosphere is warm, and the locals are friendly—perfect for soaking in that Brussels vibe!
Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences
Once you’re fueled up, stroll over to the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences. This place is a real gem! You’ll be greeted by towering dinosaur skeletons that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Jurassic Park movie. The interactive exhibits are super engaging, and you might even learn a thing or two about Belgium’s natural history. Admission is wallet-friendly (between €10.00 to €13.00), so you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.
Afternoon: Lunch Break
After all that exploring, it’s time to refuel. Head to the following eats:
- Manhattn’s Burgers: Av. de Tervueren 9, 1040 Etterbeek (€10–20)
- Mevan Snack: Rue de la Jonchaie 9, 1040 Etterbeek ( €1–10)
- Chez Henri: Pl. Saint-Pierre 8, 1040 Etterbeek ( €10–20)
These nearby bistros are great for casual lunch. They offer a wide range of food—perfect for recharging before the next adventure.
Next Up: Art & History Museum
After a delicious lunch, why not take a quick 10-minute walk to the Art & History Museum in Parc du Cinquantenaire? For just €10, you’ll step into a treasure trove of ancient artifacts and stunning artwork.
You can check out everything from Egyptian mummies to medieval masterpieces and intricate Asian art, all in one spot. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning that you’ll enjoy whether you’re solo or with kids.
Once you’re done exploring the museum, take some time to wander around Parc du Cinquantenaire and soak in the beauty of the park.
Evening: Dinner Delight
After visiting the Art & History Museum, head to one of the following eateries for dinner.
- Bia Mama: Rue du Marché aux Poulets 41, 1000 Bruxelles
- Fin de Siècle: Rue des Chartreux 9, 1000 Bruxelles
- Chez Jules Brasserie: Rue de l’Ecuyer 33, 1000 Bruxelles
This area is buzzing with energy, and you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Treat yourself to some classic Belgian mussels at Chez Jules Brasserie
or a hearty dish at Bia Mama. Pair your meal with a local beer for the full experience!
Nightcap: Stroll and Soak It All In
After dinner, take a stroll along the canal or through the nearby streets. The city lights up beautifully at night, and it’s the perfect way to end your day. Take a moment to soak in all the sights and sounds of Brussels.
Day 2: Cultural Highlights and Panoramic Views
For your second day in Brussels, I have prepared two other different options to make your trip more flexible and fun.
Option One
Morning: European Union and Artistic Legacy
Breakfast: Start your day at one of these cozy cafes:
- Damn Good Café: Rue Saint-Jean Népomucène 10, 1000 Bruxelles ( €1–10)
- BOUCHE Specialty Coffee: Rue de Namur 4, 1000 Bruxelles (€1–10)
- To Meli Delicatessen: Rue Breydel 50, 1040 Bruxelles ( €1–10 )
These cafes are located near the Europen Parliament, about a 15-minute walk from the Grand Place.
After breakfast, make your way to the European Parliament. It’s free to visit and gives you a peek into the EU’s inner workings. Take a self-guided tour to learn about European politics and see the impressive hemicycle chamber.
Next, head to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. This complex houses several museums, but the Magritte Museum (€ 10) is a must-see. It showcases the surrealist works of René Magritte. Spend about 2 hours here to fully appreciate Magritte’s mind-bending art.
If you are into art, consider visiting the nearby Horta Museum (14€). It’s dedicated to Victor Horta, a famous Art Nouveau architect. The museum is his former house and studio, full of beautiful design details.
Afternoon: Parc du Cinquantenaire and Autoworld
Lunch: Take a stroll to Parc du Cinquantenaire, a grand park with impressive arch monuments. It’s a perfect spot for a budget-friendly picnic lunch. Bring some Belgian cheese and bread from a local shop, or grab a quick bite at a nearby café like:
- Banh Mi Express: Rue Froissart 137, 1040 Bruxelles ( €10–20)
- Manhattn’s Burgers: Av. de Tervueren 9, 1040 Etterbeek ( €10–20)
- EXKi Froissart: Rue Froissart 94, 1040 Bruxelles ( €10–20 )
After lunch, visit Autoworld in the park. It’s a car lover’s dream with over 250 vintage vehicles. Even if you’re not into cars, the building itself is worth seeing. It’s housed in a beautiful 19th-century exhibition hall.
Climb to the top of the arch for amazing views of Brussels. On a clear day, you can see the entire city spread out before you.
Evening: Mont des Arts and Leisure Time
Dinner: As evening approaches, head to Place Sainte-Catherine for dinner. This area is bustling with great restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes. Try some of those:
- Poule & Poulette Brussel: Pl. Sainte-Catherine 2, 1000 Bruxelles ( €20–30)
- Takumi Tonkotsu Ramen Kitchen: Rue Sainte-Catherine 35, 1000 Bruxelles ( €20–30)
- Barouche Place Sainte-Catherine: Pl. Sainte-Catherine 3, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20)
After dinner, make your way to Mont des Arts. This “hill of the arts” offers one of the best views in Brussels. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the city lights start to twinkle.
Take a walk through the surrounding gardens. They’re free to visit and full of sculptures and fountains. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.
End your night with a stroll through the nearby streets. You’ll find plenty of cozy bars and cafes where you can enjoy a Belgian beer.
Option Two
A Fun-Filled Day Around the Atomium
Morning: Breakfast!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at some of the following cafes:
- Café Colombia: Av. Maréchal Foch 89, 1030 Schaerbeek (€1–10)
- Café Paris: Bd Emile Bockstael 245, 1020 Bruxelles ( €1–10)
- Cafe PALTO: Pl. Saint-Lambert 8, 1020 Bruxelles ( €1–10)
Café Paris is just a stone’s throw from the Atomium. It’s a cozy spot where you can fuel up with fresh pastries and a steaming cup of coffee. The other cafes also serve delicious Belgian patisseries.
Explore the Atomium
After breakfast, head over to the Atomium(€16)—the iconic symbol of Brussels! This futuristic structure is a must-see. As you wander through the spheres, take your time to soak in the fascinating history and design. Make sure to go all the way to the top sphere for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. If you prefer not to get inside, you can visit the Atonium from the outside, it’s as beautiful and free!
Late Morning: Mini-Europe Adventure
Once you’ve taken in the views, take a short stroll to Mini-Europe (The price depends on the ticket you choose), right next door. This charming park is filled with miniature replicas of famous European landmarks. It’s a delightful way to “travel” across the continent in just a couple of hours! You can snap pictures with the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben all in one spot—how cool is that?
Lunch Break
After all that exploring, get a tasty lunch! Head to one of the following eats:
- Cafe Des Sports: Rue de Wand 267, 1020 Bruxelles ( €20–30)
- Brasserie du Primerose: Av. du Gros Tilleul 41/43, 1020 Bruxelles (€10–20)
- Kosto: Quai des Péniches 35, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20 )
Kosto or nearby cafés are excellent for a light lunch. Grab a fresh salad or a tasty sandwich made with unique ingredients. They offer delicious food.
Afternoon: Cosmic Wonders
Next up, make your way to the Planetarium of Brussels (€8.00). Check their schedule for showtimes and get ready for an immersive journey through the cosmos! It’s a fantastic experience that’ll leave you in awe of the universe. You might even find yourself dreaming about space travel!
If you feel like visiting more, you can take a stroll through Parc du Laeken. This peaceful park is home to the Royal Castle of Laeken and stunning gardens and monuments such as the Chinese Pavilion, and Japanese Tower. While the castle isn’t open to the public, the beautiful surroundings are perfect for a relaxing walk. Enjoy the greenery and maybe find a nice bench to sit and soak it all in.
Evening: Dinner and Relaxation
Dinner Time
As the evening rolls in, head back towards the city center for dinner at the following eateries for a nice traditional Belgian dish:
- Fin de Siècle: Rue des Chartreux 9, 1000 Bruxelles (€10–20 )
- The blue: Rue du Marché aux Fromages 18, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20 )
- A L’Angolo: Rue du Marché aux Poulets 2, 1000 Bruxelles ( €10–20 )
After dinner, you can either stay in the Atonium’s surroundings or come back to the Grand Place area and stroll through the nearby streets. The atmosphere in Brussels at night is magical, with twinkling lights and bustling cafes. Find a cozy bar to relax in, where you can enjoy another Belgian beer or a warm, delicious waffle to wrap up your day.
Planning Your Visit
Brussels welcomes visitors year-round. So, knowing when to go, where to stay, and how to get around will help you make the most of your two-day trip.
Best Time to Visit Brussels
Brussels is very popular all year round, but spring and fall are extremely pleasant seasons for exploring Brussels. April to June brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds. September and October are also nice, with golden autumn colors.
Summer is the peak tourist season. So, you can expect higher prices and busy attractions from July to August. Winter is cold, but the Christmas market in December draws a large amount of tourists. The city is beautifully decorated and the ambiance is out of this world!
Try to plan your visit around events like the Flower Carpet in August, which occurs every two years (Check the date on the website). Or, if you like music, you can participate in the Brussels Jazz Festival in January. These add extra excitement to your trip.
Where to Stay in Brussels
Brussels offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels conveniently located near major attractions. Contrary to popular belief, many accommodations in the city center are quite affordable. In fact, you can discover excellent options at reasonable prices, all within easy reach of the main sights. By booking in advance, you can secure great deals, making it easier to explore the city.
Saint-Gilles and Ixelles are hip areas with cheaper stays. These less-known little germs are a short tram ride from the center, but truly beautiful neighborhoods.
If you travel in the summer, you must book early to get the best deals. Many hotels offer free breakfast, and some even half-board option to help you save money.
Brussels has an excellent public transport system, which is convenient to use and will save you money on taxis. Note that Brussels is tiny and super easy to get around, but some areas, like the Atonium, require public transport to get there.
However, if you intend to use public transport frequently, consider purchasing a 48-hour pass. This Brussels card offers unlimited rides on buses, trams, and metros, making it a cost-effective option compared to buying single tickets.
Downloading the STIB-MIVB app is a smart move, as it provides real-time schedules to help you plan your routes effortlessly. The app also works offline, so you won’t have to worry about internet connectivity while navigating the city.
Brussels Airport offers direct train connections to the city center, making it a quicker and more cost-effective option than taking a taxi. Plus, you can enjoy stunning views during your journey!
Final World!
In conclusion, Brussels is a wonderful city! It has a beautiful history, lively culture, and tasty food, making it a great place to visit. With two easy itineraries for each day, you can check out famous spots like the Grand Place and the Atomium while enjoying delicious local dishes. If you go during the nicer months and use the handy public transport, you’ll have an even better time!
Welcome to TravelOnQuest.Com! I’m Simone, and I am here to help you plan your dream European adventure without breaking the bank. Join me as we uncover hidden gems, must-see attractions, and insider tips for creating unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re exploring solo, with family, or with friends, let’s connect and make your budget-friendly European escapade a reality.