Brussels 2 weeks

The main railway station in Brussels, serving as a central hub for national and international train services. It's a key point for arriving travelers, offering easy access to the city center.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning square is surrounded by opulent guildhalls, the City Hall, and the King's House. It's the historical heart of Brussels, renowned for its architectural splendor.

• Visit at different times of day to see the light change on the buildings.
• Look up to appreciate the intricate details of the facades.

Located directly on the Grand-Place, this establishment offers traditional Belgian cuisine with a view of the historic square. It's a great spot to experience the ambiance of the Grand-Place over dinner.

This complex houses a vast collection of Belgian art, from the Old Masters to contemporary works. The collection includes masterpieces by artists like Bruegel, Rubens, and Magritte.

• Allocate ample time to explore the different wings.
• Check for temporary exhibitions which often showcase significant works.

A renowned Brussels institution famous for its authentic Belgian speculoos biscuits. You can enjoy them with coffee or purchase them as souvenirs.

• Try the speculoos ice cream if available.
• They offer a wide variety of flavors and gift boxes.

Explore the rich history of Belgian chocolate and visit several artisan chocolatiers. This guided tour offers tastings and insights into the chocolate-making process.

• Book in advance, as tours can fill up.
• Go with an empty stomach to fully enjoy the tastings.

The official residence of the King and Queen of the Belgians, located in the heart of Brussels. During the summer months (typically July and August), the palace is open to the public, offering a glimpse into royal life.

• Check the official opening dates and times as they vary annually.
• Dress respectfully as it is a former royal residence.

The oldest public park in Belgium, situated between the Royal Palace and the Parliament of the Federal Parliament. It's a serene spot for a leisurely stroll or a break.

An interactive museum that explains the history and workings of the European Parliament and the EU. It offers engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages.

• Free entry makes it a great budget-friendly option.
• Multilingual audio guides are available.

This area, also known as the European Quarter, is home to many EU institutions. It features modern architecture and a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants and bars catering to the international crowd.

Dedicated to the art of the comic strip, this museum celebrates Belgian and Franco-Belgian comic heroes like Tintin and the Smurfs. The building itself is a beautiful Art Nouveau masterpiece designed by Victor Horta.

• Look for the comic strip murals scattered throughout the city after your visit.
• The museum shop offers a wide selection of comic-related merchandise.

A famous spot for authentic Belgian fries (frites). Located near the Sablon area, it's a popular choice for a quick and delicious lunch.

The iconic bronze statue of a little boy urinating, a symbol of Brussels. The statue is often dressed in various costumes, especially on special occasions.

• Check the calendar for special costume days.
• It's smaller than many expect, so don't be surprised.

A lesser-known but charming counterpart to the Manneken Pis, depicting a young girl squatting. It's tucked away in a small alley and offers a more intimate experience.

Dedicated to the work of Victor Horta, a pioneer of Art Nouveau architecture. The museum is housed in Horta's former residence and studio, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing his innovative designs.

• Book tickets online in advance, as entry is timed and limited.
• Photography inside the museum may be restricted.

Explore the charming streets of Saint-Gilles, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, lively atmosphere, and independent boutiques. It's a great area to wander and discover hidden gems.

A picturesque square famous for its antique shops, art galleries, and high-end chocolatiers. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon browse and perhaps a sweet treat.

• Visit on weekends for the antique market.
• Sample chocolates from renowned chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini.

One of the oldest shopping arcades in Europe, featuring elegant glass-roofed passages lined with luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, and cafes. It's a beautiful architectural space to explore.

• Admire the ornate architecture and the detailed ceiling.
• Many famous Belgian chocolatiers have a presence here.

A popular, no-frills brasserie in the heart of Brussels known for its generous portions of traditional Belgian dishes like stoemp and carbonnade flamande. It's a bustling spot frequented by locals.

• Expect a lively atmosphere and potentially a queue during peak hours.
• Their menu features a good selection of Belgian comfort food.

A beautiful elevated garden complex offering panoramic views over Brussels' historic center. It connects the Royal Palace to the Belgian Parliament and is a great spot for photos.

An iconic architectural landmark built for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, representing a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It offers exhibitions and panoramic views of the city from its highest sphere.

• Consider visiting early to avoid crowds.
• The permanent exhibition inside details the history of the Atomium and Expo 58.

Located near the Atomium, this park features detailed scale models of famous European landmarks and cities. It's a fun and educational experience, especially for those interested in European geography and architecture.

Famous for holding the Guinness World Record for the most beers available (over 2000), this lively bar offers an unparalleled selection of Belgian and international brews. It's a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

• Ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences.
• It can get very crowded, especially on weekends.

A large public park featuring the monumental Arc de Triomphe, museums, and green spaces. It was created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgium's independence and is a popular recreational area.

Located within the Parc du Cinquantenaire, this museum showcases the military history of Belgium and its armed forces. It features extensive collections of arms, armor, and aircraft.

Housed in the stunning Art Nouveau Old England building, this museum boasts an impressive collection of over 8,000 musical instruments from around the world. The rooftop restaurant offers great views.

• The audio guide is highly recommended for an immersive experience.
• Enjoy a drink or meal at the rooftop cafe for panoramic city views.

The primary station for high-speed trains (Thalys, Eurostar) and regional services. It's a modern and well-connected hub for international and national travel.

Regular train services connect Brussels to Bruges, taking approximately 1 hour. The train station in Bruges is a short bus or taxi ride from the historic city center.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bruges is renowned for its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets. It offers a romantic and historic atmosphere.

• Take a canal boat tour for a unique perspective of the city.
• Wander through the Markt and Burg squares.

Return train service from Bruges to Brussels.

Often called the 'Railway Cathedral', this is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, with a magnificent dome and impressive architecture. It's a major hub for Belgian rail traffic.

Frequent and fast train services connect Brussels to Antwerp, typically taking around 50 minutes. It's an easy day trip destination.

The central square of Antwerp, featuring the stunning City Hall and the Brabo Fountain. It's surrounded by historic guild houses and is a vibrant hub of activity.

The former home and studio of the renowned Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. It's preserved to show how the artist lived and worked, with many of his masterpieces on display.

• Book tickets online to secure your entry time.
• The museum is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture itself.

Return train service from Antwerp to Brussels.

A prominent contemporary art center housed in a former Stella Artois brewery. It features exhibitions by international and Belgian artists, often in a raw, industrial setting.

• Check their website for current exhibitions and opening hours.
• The building's industrial heritage is part of its unique appeal.

This area surrounding WIELS is known for its diverse community, green spaces, and emerging culinary scene. It offers a more local and less touristy experience of Brussels.

A vibrant public square known for its Art Deco architecture, lively cafes, and cultural events. It's a popular meeting point for locals and a good place to soak up the city's atmosphere.

Explore the industrial and commercial heart of Brussels' waterways. While not a typical tourist attraction, it offers a different perspective on the city's economic activity.

• Look for guided tours that might offer access to specific port areas.
• This area is best experienced with a local guide or by understanding its industrial significance.

A former indoor market hall, now a cultural space hosting exhibitions and events. It's a beautiful example of 19th-century iron architecture and a popular meeting spot.

Walk along the Brussels-Canal, which has seen significant urban regeneration. The area is increasingly known for its vibrant street art and creative hubs.

• Look for murals and installations by local and international artists.
• Consider a guided street art tour for deeper insights.

Frequent and fast train services connect Brussels to Ghent, taking approximately 30-40 minutes. Ghent is a historic university city with beautiful medieval architecture.

Explore the medieval heart of Ghent, characterized by its stunning canals, impressive cathedrals (St. Bavo's and St. Nicholas'), and the Gravensteen castle. It's a vibrant city with a rich history.

• Visit the Ghent Altarpiece in St. Bavo's Cathedral.
• Enjoy a boat tour on the canals.

Return train service from Ghent to Brussels.

If your visit falls on a weekend, the Place du Grand Sablon hosts a charming antiques market. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs or enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

• Haggle politely for the best prices.
• Arrive early for the best selection.

A classic Brussels institution famous for its moules-frites (mussels and fries). It offers a traditional Belgian dining experience in a lively setting near the Grand-Place.

The main railway station in Brussels, serving as a central hub for national and international train services. It's a convenient departure point for many travelers.