Top things to do in Brussels in one day

Brussels is not the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to Belgium. It’s such an underrated city in Europe, but I believe you should see it at least once. The Grand Place is one of the most beautiful squares we’ve seen, and is so worth the visit, even if just for the day.

On the blog, I highlight some of the top things to do in Brussels in one day, including a few day trips you can add to your Belgium travel itinerary. You can easily see most of Brussels main attractions on a day trip, but I suggest staying for at least two days in Brussels to make the most of your visit.

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How to get to Brussels 

If you’re flying into Brussels, you can easily take the train from the Brussels Zaventem airport, which is located on level 1, directly under the departures and arrival halls, to Brussels Centrale station. From there the city center is just a short walk away.

The two main train stations in Brussels is the Brussels Centrale and Brussels Midi (also called Bruxelles-Midi), and all intercity trains will pass through here.

If coming in by car, there are a few parking garages located right in the city center, just be prepared for traffic, especially on weekends.

*Check out our Ultimate Road Trip Guide to Belgium here. I share some of our favorite places to visit in Belgium. 

Where to stay 

We have visited Brussels a few times and we always use Bruges as our base. We like staying in Bruges, because the town is so much more quieter and less congested.

The Novotel Brugge Centrum was one of our favorite hotel stays in Bruges, as it is located centrally. It’s such a kid friendly hotel, with a kids play area in the lobby, and larger rooms for families. 

The hotel features a Garden terrace and a seasonal outdoor pool. The hotel also offers a parking garage for those driving into Bruges. 

Find a Hotel in Brussels here:

Top things to do in Brussels Belgium 

Visit the Grand place 

One of the top things to do in Brussels is a visit to the Grand Place or Grote Markt. This UNESCO World Heritage site should be your first stop when visiting Brussels. Sit in one of the cafes, sip a Belgian beer and just people watch. 

The Grand Place in Brussels is the cities claim to fame. It’s one of the most beautiful city squares, surrounded by some of the most opulent buildings, including the Gothic City Hall and Kings House.

There are a few museums you can visit on Grand Place to learn more about Belgium’s history. But if you’re only in Brussels for one day, simply admiring the beautiful architecture is the best itinerary for the day.

One of the main events to look forward to at the Grand Place is the Flower Carpet, which usually happens every 2 years in mid-August. During this event, the historic square is covered with a carpet like tapestry made out of colorful begonias, and is absolutely stunning!

*Purchase the Brussels card when visiting the city. Enjoy free access to 41 of Brussels’ museums on your visit.

Admire Mannekin Pis and his costume of the day

Just a short walk from the Grand Place is Mannekin Pis. Manneken Pis is a statue of a peeing boy, and is the best known symbol of Brussels. 

It is dressed in costumes, several times each week and is somewhat hilarious! It may seem overrated to some, but to the people of Brussels it is an important symbol of the city. 

Book your Brussels tours here:

Shop at the Galeries Royal Saint Hubert

 The Galeries Royal Saint Hubert is one of the most luxurious shopping centers in Brussels.

Built in the early 19th century, this indoor shopping Gallery is the perfect place to window shop and sample some of Belgium’s fine chocolates.

You can also find cafes and restaurants here, perfect to take a break from your sightseeing tour of Brussels. 

Visit Brussels Park

One of the best places to visit Brussels with kids is Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles). This urban park in Brussels is an amazing green space located in the heart of the city. 

If you’re in need of some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then this is the perfect place to unwind. There are playgrounds for the kiddos, and a big open space for them to run around.

Parc de Bruxelles is surrounded by the Royal Palace and the Belgian Federal Parliament, and was once the Royal hunting grounds. Since then it has been transformed into a park for all to enjoy, complete with sculptures, fountains and footpaths.

Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels  

Located next to Brussels Park is the Royal Palace of Brussels. If you happen to visit Brussels in the summer, you can actually go on a tour of the Brussels Royal Palace! 

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the King and Queen, and is their main workplace. 

From about July 23 to August 25 the Palace opens its doors to the public for about a month, and admission is FREE, except on Mondays. 

Explore the Mont des Arts district 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Brussels is the Mont des Arts Gardens. Mont des Arts is the city’s art and museum district, and is also home to a lush garden park in the city. 

Sit in one of the benches and just take a break from your sightseeing adventures. You also get the most amazing views of Brussels from here and it’s just so beautiful!

Visit the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula

 Most people who visit Brussels usually just stay within the city’s main Square. But if you explore more, there are a few other places worth visiting in Brussels. 

One place to add to your day trip to Brussels is a visit to the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula. This Cathedral is a medieval Roman Catholic church located in central Brussels.

The history of the Cathedral goes back as far as the 9th century, and was believed to have been built to honour St. Michael.

The interior of the cathedral is just so magnificent, especially the stained glass, and is definitely worth adding to your Brussels itinerary.

Shop at Avenue Louise 

If shopping is on your agenda when visiting Brussels, then you have to stop by Avenue Louise in Brussels. 

This shopping district in the city is home to some high end luxury brands, and more affordable ones as well. There are also lots of cafes and restaurants here, and is the perfect place to grab a bite. 

Just a short walk from Avenue Louise is the Monument A la Gloire de l’Infanterie Belge, which is a memorial in honor of the Belgian soldiers who fought during both World Wars. From here you get the most amazing panoramic views of the city of Brussels.

What to eat in Brussels

When in Belgium, you have to try the Belgian Waffles, Frites, chocolates and beer! Did you know that Belgian beer is on the UNESCO world heritage list? 

The beer here is world class and you can sample some of their specialties at the Delirium bar on the Grand Place in Brussels, or practically at any restaurant or cafe in Belgium.

Have a glass and enjoy it with a bowl of mussels, which is served everywhere, and quite delicious! Don’t forget to indulge in some Belgian waffles, which are pretty much sold everywhere in the city. We love them plain, but it’s so decadent covered in Nutella and strawberries!

If you have more time in Brussels

If you have more time in Brussels, I suggest visiting the Atomium and Mini Europe Park.

The Atomium is a famous landmark in Brussels, and Mini Europe is a miniature park showcasing mini versions of many European monuments. 

If you’re planning a visit to Brussels in the spring, I highly recommend visiting the Hallerbos Forest. In the spring, the forest floor blooms with a carpet of bluebells and it’s absolutely amazing!

Another must see place in Brussels in the spring are the tulip fields at the Groot-Bijgaarden castle.

The annual Floral Brussels tulip fields is absolutely amazing, and worth the visit if you can’t visit the Dutch tulip fields in the Netherlands.

Brussels Winter wonders 

If you’re planning a winter visit to Brussels, the city hosts one of the largest Christmas markets in the city. 

The Winter Wonders Christmas market is one of the best times to visit Brussels, with all the fun festivities spread throughout the city. 

This event usually starts around late November and goes till Christmas Eve. 

*For more on the Winter Wonders event. Read our Guide to the Belgium Christmas Markets here. 

Some fun day trips from Brussels: 

Read our Guide on visiting Bruges Belgium, the best day trip from Brussels 

Planning a spring visit to Brussels, check out our visit to The Tulip festival at the Groot Bijgaarden castle here. 

The Hallerbos forest is also amazing in the spring, check out our Guide for visiting Hallerbos Forest with kids here. 

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