Belgium

Brussels

Brussels: grand squares, comic-strip walls and world-class chocolate.

Local time: UTC+1
Population: 1.2M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Expensive

Food$$$$$About $78 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $158 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $11.2 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇪🇺 EUR =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

BRUBrussels AirportMain airport in Zaventem, 11 km north-east of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
TrainBrussel-Centraal	€10-12	15-20 min
Runs every 10-20 min from Level -1; airport supplement usually included.
Bus 12European district / Trône	€8-8.50	30 min
Go2City ticket needed from the airport; departs Level 0.
De Lijn bus R26Brussel-Noord	€3	30-40 min
Cheap but not valid on other Brussels transport.
TaxiCity centre	€50-60	20-30 min
Confirm the fare first; some drivers overcharge.

CRLBrussels South Charleroi AirportBudget airport 44 km south; mostly Ryanair and Wizzair.

How	Cost	Time
TEC bus A + trainBrussel-Zuid/Midi	€15-16	80-90 min
Combined ticket from the TEC machine at the airport.
Flibco shuttle busBrussel-Zuid/Midi	€10-20	60-75 min
Book online for a lower price; queues can be long.
TaxiCity centre	€90-120	50-70 min
Fixed fares; Brussels taxis charge more.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Brussels

Getting around

Walk the compact centre; use metro or tram for longer hops.

Metro ★STIB/MIVB metro and trams reach most sights. A single ride costs about €2.10–2.60; tap a contactless bank card or buy a MOBIB card (about €6) for cheaper fares.
BusSTIB buses cover the city. De Lijn buses serve the airport and Flanders, but their tickets are not valid on STIB.
Taxi / ride appsUber, Bolt and local taxi apps work. Taxis from the airport cost around €60.
Rental carDriving is slow and parking is costly. A low-emission zone covers the centre; check your car meets the rules.
Walking ★The centre is compact and walkable. Shared bikes and scooters are common for longer trips.

Recommended stay★ 1 night (2 days)

One night suits you, fitting the Grand Place, the galleries and one museum into a single day.

Best for

CultureGrand-Place, comic-strip murals and the old centre on foot.
FoodWaffles, fries, chocolate and mussels between sights.
ArtMagritte, Old Masters and the comic-strip museum.

Weather by month

6°2°Jan🌧 14d

8°2°Feb🌧 12d

11°3°Mar🌧 14d

14°5°Apr🌧 11d

18°9°May🌧 12d

22°13°Jun🌧 10d

23°14°Jul🌧 11d

23°15°Aug🌧 12d

20°12°Sep🌧 11d

16°9°Oct🌧 13d

10°5°Nov🌧 14d

8°3°Dec🌧 14d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Temperate and often cloudy: mild summers, cool winters and rain in every month.

Best time: May to SeptemberHighs of 18–23°C and the most daylight. Ideal for walking the centre and sitting outside.
Rain all yearExpect 10–14 rain days every month. Showers are often short; carry a small umbrella.
Cool wintersDecember to February highs of 6–8°C and lows near 2°C. A warm coat and layers are essential.
Mild, not hot, summersJuly and August peak near 23°C. Rarely very hot; evenings can still feel cool.
Grey skies are commonOvercast days are frequent. Plan museums and cafés as backups to outdoor plans.
What to packLayers, a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes for cobblestones. Add a scarf and gloves in winter.

Landmarks 27

Must-see · 6

1
Grand Place
Brussels' central square is a UNESCO-listed ensemble of gilded guildhalls and the ornate Town Hall, and it is the city's undisputed icon. Come early in the morning for uncrowded photos, and return after dark when the buildings are floodlit.
2
Atomium
The futuristic 1958 World's Fair structure is Brussels' most recognizable modern landmark, with panoramic views from its spheres. Take metro line 6 to Heysel and book tickets online to skip the queue.
3
Manneken Pis
This tiny bronze statue of a urinating boy is a beloved symbol of Brussels' irreverent humor. It is a quick stop near Grand Place, so combine it with a walk through the nearby streets.
4
Royal Palace of Brussels
The official palace of the Belgian monarchy faces Brussels Park and is open to visitors in summer. Check opening dates before you go, as it is only accessible for part of the year.
5
St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral
This Gothic cathedral is a majestic landmark with stunning stained glass and a royal history. Entry is free, and it is a short walk uphill from Grand Place.
6
Parc du Cinquantenaire
The park's triumphal arch and surrounding museums make it a grand, green escape from the city center. Visit on a sunny day and combine it with the nearby Royal Museum of the Armed Forces.

Cultural

Modern Architecture 1

Park 2

Historical Square 1

Traditional Village 1

University 1

Modern History 3

Museum 2

Statue 1

Urban Hub 1

Gate 1

Palace 1

Christian 1

Activities

Brewery 3

Bookstore 1

Theater 1

Food 1

Painting 2

Festival 1

Amusement Park 2

Day trips from Brussels

Bruges · 50 min by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 98 km from Brussels

Best way: Direct trains are the fastest option, and the historic centre is a short walk from the station.

Direct trains run from Brussels-Midi or Brussels-Central to Bruges in about an hour, and the historic centre is a short walk from the station.

Train ★50 min · from €11
Bus1 h 50 · from $10-$16
Car1 h 17 · taxi ≈ €220

What to see

Markt and Belfry
Canals by boat or on foot
Basilica of the Holy Blood
Groeningemuseum
Minnewater lake

7 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Bruges is busiest midday in peak season, so arriving early or staying into the evening helps.
Its canal-side old town is compact and best explored on foot.

Antwerp · 32 min by train

★★★★☆ · Half day · 46 km from Brussels

Best way: Direct trains are frequent and reach Antwerpen-Centraal, a short walk from the cathedral and old town.

Direct trains run about 35 to 40 minutes from Brussels to Antwerpen-Centraal, a short walk from the cathedral and old town.

Train ★32 min · from €6
Bus1 h 05 · from $4-$7
Car47 min · taxi ≈ €100

What to see

Cathedral of Our Lady
Grote Markt and Brabo fountain
Rubens House
MAS museum waterfront

8 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Check museum opening days before you go, since many close one day a week.
The cathedral and old town are close together, so you can see most of the centre on foot.

Gent (Ghent) · 24 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 58 km from Brussels

Best way: Frequent direct trains are quick, and the old centre is about a 15-minute walk from the station.

Frequent direct trains take about 35 minutes from Brussels to Gent-Sint-Pieters, and the old centre is a 15-minute walk from the station.

Train ★24 min · from €7
Bus55 min · from $5-$9
Car53 min · taxi ≈ €130

What to see

Gravensteen castle
Graslei and Korenlei waterfront
St Bavo's Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece
Belfry of Ghent

6 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Gravensteen castle and the riverside old centre are the main sights, and both are walkable.
Trains run often, so you can time your return flexibly.

Leuven · 14 min by train

★★☆☆☆ · Half day · 30 km from Brussels

Best way: It is the shortest trip by train, and the Grote Markt is a short walk from the station.

Direct trains take about 20 minutes from Brussels to Leuven, and the Grote Markt is a short walk from the station.

Train ★14 min · from €5
Bus58 min · from $2-$4
Car31 min · taxi ≈ €70

What to see

Town Hall on Grote Markt
St Peter's Church
Old Market square cafés
Beguinage (Begijnhof)

3 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

It works well as a relaxed half-day trip rather than a full day.
Its main square and university old town are the highlights.

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Brussels rewards visitors with medieval squares, Art Nouveau gems and a lively food scene. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Culture

One packed day on foot through the old centre, with a quick stop at the icons.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 0
Taxis: ≈ EUR 48

Day 1

Grand-Place, old centre and the Marolles

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 48

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Come early before the crowds. The square is always open.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 359 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

09:50–10:00 · Free

Manneken Pis Landmark quest

A short walk south. It is small, so look twice.

Open Always visible · small statue in a street fountain · Source
Taxi · 646 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

10:15–10:35 · Free

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Walk up for the classic view over the city.

Open Always open
Taxi · 721 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

10:45–11:30 · Free · small fee for the crypt

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral Landmark quest

Roughly 08:00–18:00 daily. Check on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 08:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

12:00–13:30 · Free to walk

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Morning flea market, then lunch in the neighbourhood.

Open Daytime · daily flea market in the morning
Taxi · 1024 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

14:30–15:30 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 737 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
7

15:45–16:45 · Free when open to the public

Royal Palace of Brussels Landmark quest

Usually summer only. Check on the day.

Open Usually open to visitors only in summer · check on the day · Source

Day trip · Food

A tasting day: markets, a brewery visit and the classic plates.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 43
Taxis: ≈ EUR 40

Day 1

Markets, beer and mussels

Tickets ≈ EUR 43 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:30 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Start with the square before it fills up.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 1173 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

09:45–11:15 · Free to walk

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Morning flea market. Good for a snack.

Open Daytime · daily flea market in the morning
Taxi · 940 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:30–12:45 · ≈ €8 self-guided visit with tasting · check on the day

Brasserie Cantillon Landmark quest

Mon–Sat daytime only, closed Sunday. Weekday late morning is calmest.

Open Mon–Sat, daytime only · closed Sunday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

13:15–14:30 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch. Mussels are best in autumn and winter.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

15:00–16:00 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 1020 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
6

18:30–21:30 · ≈ €30–45 per person · check inclusions

Brussels beer tasting tour

Evening tasting tour. Book ahead.

Open Evening tours most days

Day trip · Art

Magritte and the museums, plus the comic-strip murals in the streets.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 30
Taxis: ≈ EUR 24

Day 1

Magritte, murals and Mont des Arts

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · ≈ €10 · combined tickets available, check on the day

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Go at opening time.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
1

11:45–12:15 · ≈ €10 Magritte Museum ticket · check on the day

The Son of Man Landmark quest

Same museum area. Closed Monday.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
2

12:30–13:15 · ≈ €10 Royal Museums ticket · check on the day

The Fall of Icarus Landmark quest

Old Masters nearby. Closed Monday.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi · 203 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

13:30–13:50 · Free

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Quick view, then lunch nearby.

Open Always open
Taxi · 936 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

15:00–16:30 · Free · map from tourist office

Comic strip mural walk

Murals across the centre. Best on a dry day.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 276 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

19:30–22:00 · Ticket prices vary by production · check on the day

La Monnaie Landmark quest

Evening performance. Check the programme and book ahead.

Open Box office daytime · performances evenings · Source

1 night · Culture ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want the old centre on foot plus one big view.

Stay: Grand-Place. Steps from the main square, waffle stands and the station. Noisiest and busiest area; book early.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 10
Taxis: ≈ EUR 80
Hotel: EUR 120–280

Day 1

Grand-Place and the old centre

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Come early before the crowds. Look up at the guild houses.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 359 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:00–10:10 · Free

Manneken Pis Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. It is small, so do not expect much.

Open Always visible · small statue in a street fountain · Source
Taxi · 613 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

10:30–12:00 · Free · map from tourist office

Comic strip mural walk

Murals are spread around the centre. Wear comfy shoes.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 215 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

12:30–13:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch. Mussels are best in autumn and winter.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 1100 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

15:00–15:20 · Free

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Short walk uphill. Best light near sunset.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 594 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8

Day 2

Sablon, cathedral and art

Tickets ≈ EUR 10 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 739 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

09:00–09:45 · Free · small fee for the crypt

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral Landmark quest

Morning light through the windows. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 08:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1188 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:15–11:15 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 412 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:45–13:15 · ≈ €10 · combined tickets available, check on the day

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Go at opening time.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi · 538 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

14:00–15:00 · Free when open to the public

Royal Palace of Brussels Landmark quest

Usually summer only. Check on the day.

Open Usually open to visitors only in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 1301 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8

1 night · Food ★ Recommended length

Visitors who plan the day around beer, mussels and markets.

Stay: Grand-Place. Steps from the main square, waffle stands and the station. Noisiest and busiest area; book early.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 43
Taxis: ≈ EUR 60
Hotel: EUR 120–280

Day 1

Old centre tastes

Tickets ≈ EUR 35 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Start here before the crowds.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 1173 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:00–11:30 · Free to walk

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Morning flea market, then snack stalls.

Open Daytime · daily flea market in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

12:30–13:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch. Cooler months are best for mussels.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 546 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

18:00–21:00 · ≈ €30–45 per person · check inclusions

Brussels beer tasting tour

Evening tasting. Eat something first.

Open Evening tours most days

Day 2

Brewery and market morning

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 36

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

10:00–11:15 · ≈ €8 self-guided visit with tasting · check on the day

Brasserie Cantillon Landmark quest

Closed Sunday. Weekday late morning is calm.

Open Mon–Sat, daytime only · closed Sunday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

12:00–13:00 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 9
3

14:00–15:00 · Free to enter · pay per stall

Flagey food market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day. Short tram ride.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 3 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ EUR 11

1 night · Art ★ Recommended length

Art lovers who want Magritte, murals and a bookshop lunch.

Stay: Sablon. Quiet, elegant streets with antique shops, chocolate makers and the Fine Arts museum nearby.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 30
Taxis: ≈ EUR 94
Hotel: EUR 140–320

Day 1

Murals and Magritte

Tickets ≈ EUR 10 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 40

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1483 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

09:30–11:00 · Free · map from tourist office

Comic strip mural walk

Dry daytime is best. Murals are outdoors.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 349 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

11:15–12:00 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Quick look on the way.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 544 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

12:30–13:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch near the centre.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 1297 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

14:30–16:00 · ≈ €10 · combined tickets available, check on the day

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Go early in the day if you can.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 524 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8

Day 2

Old Masters and books

Tickets ≈ EUR 20 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 54

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 431 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
1

09:30–10:15 · ≈ €10 Royal Museums ticket · check on the day

The Fall of Icarus Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Weekday morning is quiet.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
2

10:45–11:15 · ≈ €10 Magritte Museum ticket · check on the day

The Son of Man Landmark quest

Same museum area. Closed Monday.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 26 min · ≈ EUR 19
3

12:00–13:00 · Bookshop free · café prices vary

Cook & Book Landmark quest

Lunch among the books. Good for a rainy day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–19:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 27 min · ≈ EUR 19
4

14:00–14:20 · Free

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Viewpoint on the way back.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 617 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8

2 nights · Culture

First-timers who want the old centre on foot plus the big sights, at an easy pace.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 10
Taxis: ≈ EUR 64

Day 1

Grand-Place and the old centre

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 32

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Go early before the crowds. The square is always open.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 359 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:00–10:10 · Free

Manneken Pis Landmark quest

Five minutes on foot. It is small, so expect a quick photo stop.

Open Always visible · small statue in a street fountain · Source
Taxi · 613 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

10:30–12:00 · Free · map from tourist office

Comic strip mural walk

Mural walk through the centre streets. Best in dry weather.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 215 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

12:30–13:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch. Mussels are best in autumn and winter.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 1100 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

15:00–15:20 · Free

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Short walk uphill for the city view. Come back at sunset if you like.

Open Always open

Day 2

Sablon, cathedral and art

Tickets ≈ EUR 10 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 32

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–09:45 · Free · small fee for the crypt

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral Landmark quest

Morning light through the windows. Roughly 08:00–18:00, check on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 08:00–18:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1188 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:15–11:15 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 412 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

11:45–13:15 · ≈ €10 · combined tickets available, check on the day

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Go at opening time.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi · 538 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

14:00–15:00 · Free when open to the public

Royal Palace of Brussels Landmark quest

Usually open only in summer. Check on the day.

Open Usually open to visitors only in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
5

15:30–17:00 · Free to walk

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Morning flea market is better, but the streets work all day.

Open Daytime · daily flea market in the morning

2 nights · Food

Visitors who plan the day around waffles, fries, mussels and beer.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 43
Taxis: ≈ EUR 59

Day 1

Old centre tastes and beer

Tickets ≈ EUR 35 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:15 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Start here before the crowds.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 1173 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

10:30–12:00 · Free to walk

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Morning flea market and snack stops.

Open Daytime · daily flea market in the morning
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

12:30–13:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch in the centre. Mussels best in cooler months.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 546 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

18:00–21:00 · ≈ €30–45 per person · check inclusions

Brussels beer tasting tour

Evening tasting tour. Eat something first.

Open Evening tours most days

Day 2

Brewery and market morning

Tickets ≈ EUR 8 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 35

1

10:00–11:15 · ≈ €8 self-guided visit with tasting · check on the day

Brasserie Cantillon Landmark quest

Mon–Sat daytime only, closed Sunday. Weekday late morning is calmest.

Open Mon–Sat, daytime only · closed Sunday · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

12:00–13:00 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 9
3

14:00–15:00 · Free to enter · pay per stall

Flagey food market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day. Short tram ride from the centre.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 25 min · ≈ EUR 18
4

16:00–17:00 · Bookshop free · café prices vary

Cook & Book Landmark quest

Bookshop with food. Good rainy-afternoon stop.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–19:00 · check on the day · Source

2 nights · Art

Art lovers: Magritte, Old Masters and comic-strip murals in two easy days.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 30
Taxis: ≈ EUR 64

Day 1

Magritte and the Sablon

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 16

1

10:00–11:30 · ≈ €10 · combined tickets available, check on the day

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Arrive at opening time.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
1

11:45–12:15 · ≈ €10 Magritte Museum ticket · check on the day

The Son of Man Landmark quest

Same museum area. Closed Monday.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
2

12:30–13:15 · ≈ €10 Royal Museums ticket · check on the day

The Fall of Icarus Landmark quest

Old Masters nearby. Closed Monday.

Open Closed Monday · Tue–Sun daytime · Source
Taxi · 1302 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 8
3

13:30–14:45 · ≈ €18–28 a plate in central restaurants

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Lunch in the Sablon area.

Open Lunch and dinner · mussels best in autumn and winter
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 8
4

15:00–16:00 · Free to browse

Place du Sablon antique market

Weekend mornings only. Check on the day.

Open Weekend mornings · check on the day

Day 2

Murals, comics and the centre

Tickets ≈ EUR 0 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 48

1

09:30–11:00 · Free · map from tourist office

Comic strip mural walk

Mural walk. Best in dry weather.

Open Daytime
Taxi · 349 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 8
2

11:15–12:00 · Free

Grand Place Landmark quest

Quick look before lunch.

Open Square always open · flower carpet every two years in August · Source
Taxi · 8 km · ≈ 28 min · ≈ EUR 20
3

13:00–14:00 · Bookshop free · café prices vary

Cook & Book Landmark quest

Lunch and book browsing. Roughly 10:00–19:00, check on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–19:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 7 km · ≈ 27 min · ≈ EUR 20
4

19:30–22:00 · Ticket prices vary by production · check on the day

La Monnaie Landmark quest

Evening performance. Book ahead at the box office.

Open Box office daytime · performances evenings · Source

Swap in instead

Swap a city afternoon for a half-day trip to Bruges or Ghent by train; check times and prices on the day.
Add the Atomium and Mini-Europe in the north if you want a break from the old centre.
Spend an extra morning at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the Magritte Museum in Sablon.

Getting around

Metro, tram and bus run by STIB/MIVB; tickets cost about €2.10-2.60 per ride.
Buy a MOBIB card (about €6) or tap a contactless bank card for cheaper fares.
De Lijn buses serve the airport and Flanders; their tickets are not valid on STIB.
Uber, Bolt and local taxi apps work; taxis from the airport cost around €60.
Driving is slow and parking is costly; the low-emission zone covers the centre.
The centre is compact and walkable; shared bikes and scooters are common.

Where to stay

Grand-Place · ≈ EUR 120–280 a night
Steps from the main square, waffle stands and the station. Noisiest and busiest area; book early.
Sablon · ≈ EUR 140–320 a night
Quiet, elegant streets with antique shops, chocolate makers and the Fine Arts museum nearby.
Ixelles · ≈ EUR 90–220 a night
Local feel, good bars and restaurants, easy tram rides to the centre. Good value.
European Quarter · ≈ EUR 100–240 a night
Close to the EU buildings and parks; quiet on weekends. About 20 minutes by metro to the centre.

Food & drink

Try Belgian classics: moules-frites, carbonnade (beef stew with beer) and waterzooi. Main dishes often €15–25.
Waffles come two ways: dense Liège-style and lighter Brussels-style. Street stalls charge about €3–6; sit-down cafés cost more.
Fries from a fritkot (chip stand) with mayonnaise are a local habit, roughly €3–5 a cone.
Chocolate and pralines: compare small makers around Grand-Place and Sablon. Prices vary widely; check the label for cocoa content.
Beer cafés serve hundreds of Belgian beers. Ask for a small tasting glass if you are unsure; strong beers are often 8–12%.

Tips

Contactless bank cards can be used directly on STIB validators for public transit
French and Dutch are both official languages, but French is predominantly spoken
Belgian beer culture is UNESCO-recognized; try a Trappist ale or a Lambic
Be cautious of pickpockets around major train stations like Gare du Midi
Fries (frites) are a serious culinary tradition; always order them with a specialty sauce

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Atomium

Skip-the-line entry to the Atomium
Includes the Design Museum ticket
12,821 reviews · 4.4 rating

Entry includedDesign museum

Atomium Entry Ticket with Design Museum Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.4 (12,821)

$19View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Grand Place

Manneken Pis

Walk through the historic center
See the main squares and landmarks with a guide
4,322 reviews · 4.6 rating

Guided walkSmall group

Guided Walking Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (4,322)

$28View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Grand Place

Manneken Pis

Chocolate and waffle tastings
Historic walking route through the center
1,542 reviews · 4.8 rating

Tastings includedHistory focus

Historical Tour with Chocolate & Waffle Tasting

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (1,542)

$50View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Mini-Europe

Entry ticket to Mini-Europe
See miniature models of European landmarks
3,790 reviews · 4.6 rating

Entry includedFamily friendly

Entry Ticket to Mini-Europe

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (3,790)

$24View tour

Souvenirs

Handmade Belgian pralines

EUR 20–35about 200-250 g · shop prices

Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and pralines are the classic gift from Brussels. Each piece has a soft filling inside a thin chocolate shell.

Where: Mary, Rue Royale, or Neuhaus, Galerie de la Reine

Check the production date and storage temperature before you buy.

Dandoy speculoos

EUR 12–25box of 200-300 g · shop prices

Speculoos is a crisp, spiced biscuit that has been baked in Brussels for generations. Dandoy is one of the oldest bakeries in the city.

Where: Maison Dandoy, Rue au Beurre

Choose a box that is sealed well so the biscuits stay crisp for the trip home.

Belgian lace

EUR 20–80handkerchief or small accessory · estimate

Brussels lace is known for its fine handmade work and has long been linked to the city's craft history. Lace is often sold as a small, easy-to-carry gift.

Where: Maniet, Galerie de la Reine

Look for a label that says handmade, and check whether the item is made in China.

Flights

Hotels

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eSIM

Get an eSIM for BrusselsStay connected in Belgium from day one · Airalo

1 GB3 days$4 USDSelect plan →5 GB30 days$8.5 USDSelect plan →10 GB30 days$13 USDSelect plan →

Compare all 5 plans · choose data and duration

Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in BrusselsDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 27

Must-see · 6

Grand Place

Atomium

Manneken Pis

Royal Palace of Brussels

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Cultural

Modern Architecture 1

Park 2

Historical Square 1

Traditional Village 1

University 1

Modern History 3

Museum 2

Statue 1

Urban Hub 1

Gate 1

Palace 1

Christian 1

Activities

Brewery 3

Bookstore 1

Theater 1

Food 1

Painting 2

Festival 1

Amusement Park 2

Day trips from Brussels

Bruges · 50 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Antwerp · 32 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Gent (Ghent) · 24 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Leuven · 14 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Grand Place Landmark quest

Manneken Pis Landmark quest

Mont des Arts viewpoint

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral Landmark quest

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Place du Sablon antique market

Royal Palace of Brussels Landmark quest

Grand Place Landmark quest

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Brasserie Cantillon Landmark quest

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Place du Sablon antique market

Brussels beer tasting tour

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

The Son of Man Landmark quest

The Fall of Icarus Landmark quest

Mont des Arts viewpoint

Comic strip mural walk

La Monnaie Landmark quest

Grand Place Landmark quest

Manneken Pis Landmark quest

Comic strip mural walk

Moules-frites Landmark quest

Mont des Arts viewpoint

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral Landmark quest

Place du Sablon antique market

Magritte Museum Landmark quest

Royal Palace of Brussels Landmark quest

Grand Place Landmark quest

Marolles neighbourhood walk

Moules-frites Landmark quest