Brussels Belgium 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Brussels, Belgium

Day 1: Explore the Grand Place and Surroundings

Places to Go:

  • Grand Place: Start your day by visiting the stunning Grand Place (Grote Markt in Dutch), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the ornate guildhalls and take in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Manneken Pis: After exploring the Grand Place, head over to see the famous Manneken Pis statue, a symbol of Brussels.

Activities:

  • Take a stroll through the charming streets surrounding the Grand Place, where you’ll find plenty of cafes, shops, and street performers.
  • Visit the nearby Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of surrealist artist René Magritte.

Where to Eat:

  • Comme Chez Soi: Enjoy upscale dining at this Michelin-starred restaurant, which serves modern French cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
  • Delirium Cafe: Visit this popular cafe for delicious Belgian waffles and other local treats.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Amigo: This luxurious hotel is located near the Grand Place and offers elegant rooms and excellent service.
  • Hotel des Galeries: For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at this charming hotel in the heart of Brussels.

Day 2: Visit Atomium and Mini-Europe

Places to Go:

  • Atomium: Start your day by visiting the iconic Atomium, a large-scale model of an iron crystal that offers panoramic views of the city.
  • Mini-Europe: Explore this theme park, which features miniature versions of famous landmarks from across Europe.

Activities:

  • Take a ride on the Belvue tram, which runs through Mini-Europe and offers a fun way to see the attractions.
  • Visit the nearby Musee Magritte Museum (mentioned earlier) for an in-depth look at the surrealist artist’s work.

Where to Eat:

  • The Lobster House: Enjoy fresh seafood and steaks at this upscale restaurant, which also serves a great selection of Belgian beers.
  • Le Funambule: Visit this cozy cafe for delicious sandwiches and salads, as well as a fun atmosphere.

Day 3: Explore the European Parliament and surrounding area

Places to Go:

  • European Parliament: Visit the modern complex that serves as the seat of the European Parliament. Take a guided tour to learn more about the institution.
  • Schuman Square: Explore this vibrant public square, which features a large fountain and plenty of cafes.

Activities:

  • Take a stroll through the nearby Parc de Bruxelles, which offers beautiful gardens and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Visit the nearby Museum of the European Parliament for an in-depth look at the history of the institution.

Where to Eat:

  • Cafe Luxembourg: Enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere at this popular cafe.
  • La Buvette: Visit this charming bistro for a fun selection of small plates and snacks.

Day 4: Visit the Royal Palace and surrounding area

Places to Go:

  • Royal Palace of Brussels: Start your day by visiting the stunning palace, which serves as the official residence of the King of Belgium.
  • Parc de Bruxelles: Take a stroll through this beautiful park, which features gardens and plenty of walking paths.

Activities:

  • Visit the nearby Palais de Justice, a grand building that serves as the seat of justice in Brussels.
  • Explore the charming streets surrounding the Royal Palace, where you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops.

Where to Eat:

  • Chez Léon: Enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine at this popular restaurant, which also serves a great selection of beers.
  • Le Piaf: Visit this cozy bistro for a fun selection of small plates and snacks.

Day 5: Explore the Magritte Museum and surrounding area

Places to Go:

  • Magritte Museum: Start your day by visiting the Magritte Museum, which features an in-depth look at the surrealist artist’s work.
  • Parc de Bruxelles: Take a stroll through this beautiful park, which features gardens and plenty of walking paths.

Activities:

  • Visit the nearby Museum of the European Parliament (mentioned earlier) for an in-depth look at the history of the institution.
  • Explore the charming streets surrounding the Magritte Museum, where you’ll find plenty of cafes and shops.

Where to Eat:

  • Cafe des Artistes: Enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere at this popular cafe.
  • Le Funambule (mentioned earlier) for delicious sandwiches and salads, as well as a fun atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Brussels is easily accessible by train, with the central station located near many of the attractions.
  • The city also has a comprehensive network of buses and trams, making it easy to get around without a car.
  • Consider purchasing a Brussels Pass, which grants you free entry to many of the city’s top attractions.

Tips and Tricks

  • Be sure to try some of Belgium’s famous chocolate and beer during your visit!
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help from locals, who are often happy to assist tourists.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.

Other Things of Interest

  • Brussels has a thriving arts scene, with many galleries and museums featuring local and international artists.
  • The city also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the Brussels Jazz Festival and the Magritte Festival.
  • Consider visiting the nearby town of Waterloo, which features a museum dedicated to the Battle of Waterloo.