Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city that packs a punch into its streets. With only one day to explore, you might feel like you're in a culinary and cultural relay race, but fear not! This itinerary will ensure you hit the highlights while enjoying a few local favorites. So, let’s lace up those walking shoes and dive into a day of waffles, chocolate, and iconic sights.
Morning: Fuel up and explore
Your day begins at Maison Dandoy, famous for its waffles. Get there early to avoid the lines. Order a Liège waffle—it's sweet, caramelized, and topped with whipped cream or fresh fruit. Pair it with a café crème, because caffeine is essential for survival.
After your sugar rush, stroll to the Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Brussels and a sight to behold. Marvel at the ornate guildhalls and the Town Hall. Take a moment to snap a picture, or a dozen, to make your friends jealous. Spend about an hour soaking in the atmosphere and maybe joining a free walking tour if you're feeling social.
- 8:30 AM - Breakfast at Maison Dandoy
- 9:30 AM - Explore Grand Place
Mid-morning: Iconic sights
Next on your list is the infamous Manneken Pis. This cheeky little statue of a boy urinating is a symbol of Brussels and a must-see. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Grand Place. Don’t be surprised if he’s dressed up; he has an extensive wardrobe, and you might catch him in a costume. Snap a photo, and maybe contemplate why this statue is so beloved—after all, it’s just a little boy doing his business.
After you’ve had your fill of this quirky landmark, head to the Mont des Arts area. The gardens here provide a stunning view of the city and are perfect for a quick break. Spend around 30 minutes wandering through the gardens, taking in the sights, and perhaps contemplating life while sitting on a bench.
- 10:30 AM - Visit Manneken Pis
- 11:00 AM - Stroll through Mont des Arts
Afternoon: Culture and cuisine
Time for lunch! Make your way to Chez Léon, known for its mussels and fries. Order the classic moules-frites and wash it down with a local beer. You deserve it after all that walking. Enjoy your meal and soak in the local vibe—don’t be surprised if you hear a few conversations in different languages. Brussels is a melting pot, after all.
Once your belly is full, it’s time for some art! Head to the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. You can’t miss the stunning collections, including works by Rubens and Magritte. Spend about 1.5 to 2 hours here, and remember to take a moment to enjoy the architecture of the building itself.
- 12:30 PM - Lunch at Chez Léon
- 1:30 PM - Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts
Late afternoon: Sweet treats and shopping
After indulging your artistic side, it’s time to indulge your sweet tooth. Head to Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus for some of the best chocolates in the city. Grab a few truffles for the road—your taste buds will thank you. Spend about 30 minutes here, because why not? Chocolate is basically a food group, right?
Now that you’re fueled up, take a stroll down the Avenue Louise for some shopping. Even if window shopping isn’t your thing, the architecture along this avenue is worth seeing. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a quirky boutique or two.
- 3:30 PM - Chocolate tasting at Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus
- 4:00 PM - Shopping along Avenue Louise
Evening: Wrap it up with a feast
As the sun sets, head to the Sablon district. This area is known for its antique shops and the beautiful Church of Our Lady of Sablon. Take a moment to appreciate the gothic architecture before heading to dinner. For a true Belgian experience, dine at Restaurant Les Brigittines for some traditional Flemish cuisine. The carbonnade flamande is a must—think beef stew meets Belgian beer, and your taste buds will be dancing.
After dinner, if you still have energy, grab a drink at a nearby bar or head back to Grand Place to see it beautifully illuminated at night. It’s a sight that wraps up your day perfectly.
- 5:30 PM - Evening stroll at Sablon
- 6:30 PM - Dinner at Restaurant Les Brigittines
- 8:00 PM - Nightcap at a local bar or Grand Place
So there you have it—a day in Brussels filled with history, culture, and calories. You’ve conquered the city like a pro, and now you can head home with a belly full of waffles and chocolate and a camera roll full of memories. Next time someone asks what you did in Brussels, you’ll have quite the story to tell!
