Brussels in 1 Day: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city, brimming with history, architecture and unique flavours. Even if you’re short on time, a single day can be enough to leave you with a lasting impression. This itinerary will guide you through the city’s most iconic sights so you can make the most of your stopover.

Start your day in one of the world’s most impressive squares, the Grand Place. Early in the morning, you’ll find it less crowded, making it the perfect time to admire its Baroque architecture, historic buildings and ornate façades, all of which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Useful information

• Notable buildings include the Hôtel de Ville, the Maison du Roi, the Maison des Ducs de Brabant and Le Pigeon, where Victor Hugo once lived.
• The Grand Place has been the scene of tragic historical events such as executions during the Inquisition and French bombardments.
• If you’d like to find out more about its history, book an art and culture tour of Brussels.

This 13th-century Gothic gem, Belgium’s main Catholic cathedral, stands very close to the Grand Place. Its imposing exterior is complemented by an interior filled with polychrome stained-glass windows, a monumental organ and a Baroque chapel.

Useful information

• Free entry.
• It houses an organ with over 4,000 pipes.
• Former resting place of the remains of Saint Gudula.

After a bit of history, it’s time for some glamour. These 19th-century shopping arcades, with their glass-roofed atrium and elegant boutiques, are a must-visit, if only to admire their Parisian style.

Useful information

• Europe’s first shopping arcade (1847).
• Not much shopping, but plenty of photo opportunities.
• You can get there easily if you book the Brussels sightseeing bus.

You can’t leave without trying a good Belgian beer. Brussels is full of historic bars and breweries, but you can also join a tasting session or tour to make the most of the experience.

Useful information

• Recommended visit: Delirium, which holds the Guinness World Record for the widest variety of beers.
• Another option: the best breweries in Brussels.

The quintessential traditional dessert is the Belgian waffle. The most traditional ones are from Liège, sprinkled with sugar. If you want to take it a step further, take part in a waffle-making workshop in Brussels.

Useful information

• Try the waffles at Maison Dandoy.
• If you prefer chocolate, you can take part in one of the best chocolate tastings in Brussels, such as the Chocolate Workshop, the Chocolate-Making Class or the Chocolate Tour and Workshop.

One of Brussels’ most famous sculptures is this bronze statue of a little boy urinating, a symbol of local irreverence and humour. You’ll always see him dressed in a different costume.

Useful information

• Statue dating from 1619, stolen and replaced.
• It has its own museum: the Manneken Pis Costume Museum.
• Other related figures: Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke Pis.
• Included in many tours such as this one: book your tour of the Belgian capital.

In the upper part of the city, this Gothic church is a stunning example of elegance. Its interior houses eleven monumental works, each 15 metres high, and an interesting pulpit.

Useful information

• Free entry.
• The image of the Virgin Mary was brought here by divine command.
• Very close to other must-see attractions in the centre of Brussels.

These squares are perfect for a rest. You’ll find cafés, antique shops and galleries amongst the quiet, elegant streets.

Useful information

• An antiques market is held at the weekends.
• Place du Petit Sablon has 48 statues depicting traditional trades.

One of the city’s most imposing buildings, covering an area of over 26,000 m², it stands out both for its history and for its panoramic views over Brussels.

Useful information

• It is 104 metres high.
• Access it from the upper part of the city.
• Further information on its official website: Palace of Justice.

Round off your tour by visiting the European Parliament’s visitor centre, ideal if you’re a history and politics enthusiast. The visit includes a free multimedia guide and interactive exhibitions.

Useful information

• Free admission.
• Available in several languages.
• More info at the European Parliament.

To get around easily, make the most of the best sightseeing buses or buy a day pass for public transport. You can also plan your visit around Brussels’ top museums, such as:

• The Atomium in Brussels (check prices and how to buy tickets).
• Autoworld Museum.
• The Museum of Musical Instruments.
• The Cinquantenaire Museum.
• Banksy Museum.

And if you have more time, check out the 2-day, 3-day or 4-day itineraries for Brussels.