Take the train from the airport to Central Station (approximately 20 minutes, €10.50 return)
Check-in to your hotel:
Hotel Amigo (high-end, €250/night): a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of the city
Ibis Brussels Centre Gare du Midi (mid-range, €120/night): a comfortable hotel with easy access to public transport
Afternoon
Visit the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and ornate facades
Take a guided tour (€10) to learn about the history and significance of this iconic square
Explore the surrounding streets, including the Galeries Saint-Hubert and Rue des Bouchers
Evening
Enjoy dinner at:
Le Corbeau (fine dining, €50/meal): a Michelin-starred restaurant with refined Belgian cuisine
Chez Léon (casual, €15/meal): a popular spot for traditional Belgian comfort food
Tips and Things to Know:
Brussels is known for its chocolate, so be sure to try some at one of the many shops or cafes!
The city has a comprehensive public transport system; consider purchasing a 24-hour pass (€7) for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and metro lines.
Don’t miss the famous Manneken Pis statue, a small bronze fountain of a urinating boy
Day 2: European Institutions and Modern Brussels
Morning
Visit the European Parliament:
Take a guided tour (free) to explore the building’s architecture and learn about EU history
Watch the European Parliament in session (free) if you’re visiting during plenary sessions
Explore the surrounding area, including the Place du Luxembourg and Rue Belliard
Afternoon
Visit the Atomium:
Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city (€12)
Explore the museum exhibitions on the history of science and technology
Evening
Enjoy dinner at:
‘T Kelderke (Belgian cuisine, €25/meal): a cozy restaurant with traditional dishes
La Quince (international, €20/meal): a modern bistro with seasonal small plates
Things to Know:
The European Parliament and other EU institutions are located in the European Quarter; consider purchasing a guided tour (€10) for an overview of the area.
Don’t miss the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte.
Day 3: Royal Palace and Historic Brussels
Morning
Visit the Royal Palace:
Explore the opulent State Apartments (free) when they’re open to the public
Take a guided tour (€12) for in-depth insights into the palace’s history
Visit the Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon:
Admire the stunning Gothic architecture and ornate interior
Learn about the church’s significance in Belgian history
Afternoon
Explore the historic area, including the Rue des Éperonniers and Place aux Herbes
Visit the Museum of the City of Brussels (free):
Discover the city’s rich history and culture through artifacts and exhibits
Evening
Enjoy dinner at:
Brasserie le Cerf (Belgian cuisine, €30/meal): a cozy brasserie with traditional dishes
Le Saint-Gilles (international, €25/meal): a modern bistro with seasonal small plates
Things to Know:
Don’t miss the beautiful Grand Sablon fountain, located in the nearby square.
The city’s historic area is perfect for exploring on foot; consider purchasing a guided tour (€10) for an overview of the area.
Day 4: Mont des Arts and the Royal Museums
Morning
Visit the Magritte Museum:
Explore the life and work of Belgian surrealist artist René Magritte
Enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum
Afternoon
Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (€10):
Discover an impressive collection of art from the 15th to 20th centuries
Explore the temporary exhibitions and events in the museum’s calendar
Take a stroll through the beautiful Mont des Arts area:
Admire the stunning architecture and gardens surrounding the museum
Evening
Enjoy dinner at:
‘T Kelderke (Belgian cuisine, €25/meal): a cozy restaurant with traditional dishes
La Quince (international, €20/meal): a modern bistro with seasonal small plates
Things to Know:
The Magritte Museum is located in the stunning Hôtel d’Holvoet, a beautiful example of 18th-century architecture.
Don’t miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum; take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 5: Last-Minute Explorations
Morning
Take some last-minute time to explore your favorite neighborhood or area
Grab a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes or bakeries
Pop into any shops or markets you haven’t had a chance to visit yet
Afternoon
Visit the Saint-Géry district:
Explore the charming streets and alleys surrounding the iconic Saint-Géry church
Enjoy some last-minute shopping or snacking at one of the many local boutiques or cafes
Evening
Farewell dinner at:
Le Corbeau (fine dining, €50/meal): a Michelin-starred restaurant with refined Belgian cuisine
Chez Léon (casual, €15/meal): a popular spot for traditional Belgian comfort food
Tips and Things to Know:
Consider purchasing a Brussels Card (€25) for free entry to many museums, galleries, and attractions.
Don’t miss the beautiful views of the city from the top of one of its many hills; take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture and gardens.