Brussels is a city that knows how to blend its rich history with quirky charm. You might think of it as just the capital of Belgium, but there's more beneath the surface—think of it as the heart of Europe with a side of chocolate and beer. If you have three days to explore this gem, you’re in for a treat. This itinerary is designed to take you on a journey through the must-see sights while also sneaking in those hidden treasures that make Brussels special. Get your walking shoes on; it’s time to dive in!
Day one: Land of chocolate and comic strips
Morning: Start your adventure with a visit to the Grand Place, the city’s central square. Grab a coffee at a nearby café and soak in the stunning architecture. If you’re feeling lucky, you might catch the flower carpet if your timing is right. From there, wander over to the Manneken Pis, the cheeky little statue that represents Brussels’ irreverent spirit. What’s the story behind this little guy? No one really knows, and that’s part of the fun!
- 10:00 AM: Grand Place
- 11:00 AM: Manneken Pis
Afternoon: Time to satisfy your sweet tooth! Head to Chocopolis for some artisanal chocolate. You can watch the chocolatiers at work, and yes, tasting is mandatory. Next, make your way to the Belgian Comic Strip Center. This place is a shrine to comic art, celebrating characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. Who knew Brussels was the birthplace of so many beloved characters?
- 12:30 PM: Chocopolis for chocolate tasting
- 2:00 PM: Belgian Comic Strip Center
Evening: After a day of indulgence, it’s time for dinner. Try Chez Léon for some classic moules-frites (mussels and fries). Pair it with a local beer—because when in Brussels, you have to drink like the locals do! After dinner, take a stroll through the Sablon district and enjoy some window shopping or just admire the beautiful architecture. If you're feeling adventurous, grab a nightcap at Delirium Café, where you can choose from over 2,000 different beers. Yes, you read that right.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Chez Léon
- 8:00 PM: Evening stroll in Sablon
- 9:30 PM: Nightcap at Delirium Café
Day two: A journey through history and art
Morning: After a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café, head to the Atomium. This iconic structure looks like a giant atom and offers great views of the city. Spend some time exploring the exhibits inside. The surreal aesthetic makes for some Instagram-worthy shots. Once you’re done, stroll through the adjacent Mini-Europe, where you can see miniature replicas of Europe’s famous landmarks. It's like world travel without the jet lag.
- 9:00 AM: Atomium visit
- 11:00 AM: Mini-Europe
Afternoon: Next, make your way to the Royal Palace—don’t worry, you don’t need an invitation. If it’s summer, the palace is open to the public. Afterward, take a leisurely walk in the Brussels Park nearby. Perfect for a picnic or just people-watching. For lunch, grab a bite at Palace of Justice, where you’ll find some great local eateries.
- 12:30 PM: Royal Palace
- 1:30 PM: Brussels Park
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at Palace of Justice
Evening: Finish your day with a visit to the Magritte Museum. This museum houses a stunning collection of surrealist art. If you’re feeling a bit surreal yourself after all that art and beer, head to Poechenellekelder, a quirky pub with a vast beer selection and a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your day.
- 4:00 PM: Magritte Museum
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Poechenellekelder
Day three: Exploring the unexpected
Morning: On your final day, take a trip to the European Parliament. Even if politics isn’t your thing, the architecture is worth the visit. Afterward, head to the Parc du Cinquantenaire to enjoy the green space and impressive arches. It’s a lovely place to snap some photos or just sit and relax for a bit.
- 9:00 AM: European Parliament
- 10:30 AM: Parc du Cinquantenaire
Afternoon: For lunch, try Les Brigittines for a taste of traditional Belgian cuisine. After you're fueled up, make your way to the Hortamuseum, a lesser-known gem that showcases contemporary art in a unique setting. Don’t skip the gift shop; they have some interesting finds.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at Les Brigittines
- 2:00 PM: Hortamuseum
Evening: For your last meal in Brussels, indulge at Restaurant Vincent, known for its seafood and cozy atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll to the Place Sainte-Catherine. This area is buzzing with nightlife, so grab a drink at one of the outdoor terraces and soak in the last moments of your Brussels adventure. Can you believe you made it through three days without losing your way (too much)? Cheers to that!
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Restaurant Vincent
- 8:00 PM: Nightlife at Place Sainte-Catherine
Brussels has a way of sneaking into your heart. With its mix of history, art, and incredible food, you'll leave with more than just souvenirs. You'll have stories to tell, experiences to cherish, and maybe even a newfound love for mussels. Are you ready to book that flight?
