Brussels, the charming capital of Belgium, is a city that begs to be explored on foot. Its compact center boasts a delightful mix of history, culture, and, of course, delicious treats.
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| the Grand Palace |
In just one day, you can experience the essence of Brussels with this walkable itinerary. And the best part is you don't have to pay any admission fees to see these attractions. This is a great itinerary if you want to explore the city on a budget.
A Walking Tour of Brussels
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Start your day with a pastry and coffee at a cozy cafe near the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This elegant 19th-century shopping arcade is a great place to browse for souvenirs or simply admire the architecture. Keep an eye out for the intricate glass ceilings and the charming boutiques showcasing Belgian chocolates, lace, and tapestries.
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| inside Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert |
Grand Place
Head towards the heart of Brussels, the Grand Place or Grote Markt, pictured above. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning square lined by opulent guild houses and the iconic Brussels Town Hall. Take your time to soak in the details and snap some photos.
Marvel at the flamboyant architecture of the Town Hall, a masterpiece of Gothic style, and be sure to spot the mischievous guild house statues representing Brussels' various professions.
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| the buildings surrounding the square |
Manneken Pis
No Brussels trip is complete without seeing the Manneken Pis, the city's quirky landmark. This tiny bronze fountain sculpture may be small, but it's a major symbol of Brussels' irreverent spirit.
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| Manneken Pis |
While the little statue itself is just a few feet tall, it boasts a long and colorful history, having been kidnapped numerous times throughout the centuries. If you're lucky, you may even get to see it in a costume.
Mont des Arts
After a hearty lunch, make your way to the Mont des Arts. This scenic hill offers breathtaking views of the city and houses several museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts and the Musical Instruments Museum. Choose the one that piques your interest or simply enjoy the panoramic vista.
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| Mont des Art |
For art enthusiasts, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts house an impressive collection of Flemish masterpieces by Bruegel, Rubens, and Van Eyck. Music lovers will be enthralled by the vast collection of instruments at the Musical Instruments Museum, showcasing everything from ancient flutes to modern electric guitars.
Saint-Michel Cathedral
As the sun sets, head to the Saint-Michel Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stained glass windows and marvel at the towering nave.
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| Saint-Michel Cathedral |
Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere inside the cathedral, a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. Look out for the stunning stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible, which bathe the interior in a colorful light.
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| inside the cathedral |
Traditional Belgian Pub
Sample some of the country's renowned beers, like a refreshing lambic or a strong Trappist ale. Pair your beer with some local specialties like mussels or Flemish beef stew for a truly authentic Belgian experience. Cozy up in a traditional pub and soak up the lively atmosphere as you chat with locals and fellow travelers. Don't be afraid to try a few different beers to discover your favorite Belgian brew.
For this, I went to Delirium Cafe, which is a bar with more than 2000 types of beer, attracting a global crowd with its extensive selection and energetic atmosphere.
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| finished off with Belgian beer |
This itinerary is perfect if you don't have a lot of time to explore Brussels. With its walkable streets, charming atmosphere, and hidden gems, Brussels is a city that will leave you wanting to explore more.
If you have any questions about Brussels or any of the cities I've visited in Europe, drop a comment below!
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