City Break Spotlight: Brussels

Brussels gets overlooked sometimes, but I think it’s a wonderful city. It has grand architecture like Paris but with a more laid back atmosphere. That vibe is a big part of why I think Brussels makes a great choice for a city break. Take some time to see the sights that make Brussels unique, and relax! Here’s what to do in Brussels, plus tips in case you only have one day in Brussels.

Things to do in Brussels

Start your trip in the main square, which is within walking distance to lots of Brussels attractions. This is where the Grand Palace is.

Most days there is a market set up in the square where you can buy flowers, souvenirs, fruit, or whatever happens to be on hand that day. It’s a nice place to sit and watch the world go by while admiring the details of the Palace, city hall, and the other buildings on the perimeter of the square.

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In August of even numbered years, Brussels holds a flower carpet festival in this square. Intricate designs are made using thousands of flowers based on a different theme each time. It only lasts a few days, but it’s an amazing sight to see. Check here for dates to plan your trip to Brussels to see it.

A short walk from the square, you’ll find the famous Manneken Pis. This peeing boy statue is often dressed in silly outfits, and you never know what he’ll be wearing from one day to the next. He has 800 outfits!

The Royal Palace opens its doors to the public every summer and it’s free of charge. A number of rooms are open for you to see, sort of like a museum, with some impressive displays of antiques and art. Check here for more info and exact dates.

Like comics? Belgium is known for them. The Smurfs originated here, along with many others. Visit the Belgium Comic Strip Center for a closer look at the humor.

Another one of the fun things to do in Brussels is Mini Europe. It’s near the famous Atomium, so you could see them both on the same day.

Mini Europe has displays from every country in the EU that represent the country in miniature form, complete with moving planes, trains, boats and more. Fun for kids, but even as an adult, I think you’ll enjoy it. I certainly did!

What to eat in Brussels

Belgium is known for several different types of food. It’s reasonable that this might play a big part in your trip.

Taste frites (fries, but don’t call them French fries!) with a wide variety of dipping sauces. Try decadent Belgian chocolate. Sample amazing and creative Belgian beers throughout Brussels.

Grab some fluffy waffles from a street vendor or a fancier version for dessert one night. Seek out some mussels from Brussels. Missing your veggies while on vacation? Maybe order some Brussels sprouts.

Food in Brussels is incredibly tasty, and spending a week there would only scratch the surface. Aside from all those foods they’re known for, Belgian food often has an interesting French influence, though the country’s small size means there are other influences as well.

This is one of the areas that can really benefit from a longer stay. By basing yourself in one city for more than a few days, you’ll have more time to try different local foods.

Ask around for recommendations while you’re there. The best restaurant recommendations usually come from the people who live there.

Discovering the quirky side of Brussels

In between seeing the famous sights, take time to wander off to find other details hidden around the city. Did you know there are still a few pieces of medieval walls in Brussels?

How about a park with giant statues of the city’s iconic food? There’s interesting street art all over the city, two lesser-known peeing statues, and so much more. You just have to dig a little deeper.

It’s a bit difficult to give solid direction on how to find those little things that give a city its charm. The things that strike you as intriguing might be boring to someone else, or vice versa.

But when you stay in one place for a week (or even longer!) you’ll feel more relaxed and less rushed, and this goes a long way in helping you wander around and just see what pops out.

Day trips from Brussels

If you have time, there are several great cities in Belgium that are also worth seeing. Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, just to name a few, can be done as day trips from Brussels.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for small and charming, modern, or war history. Read more about Brussels day trips here.

One day in Brussels

While I think you should spend more time here, what if you only have one day in Brussels? Luckily you can still see some of the most popular tourist attractions in Brussels in one day.

Start your morning with a waffle and wander over to the main square to admire the Grand Palace. The architecture here is fabulous.

Then walk a few blocks to see the famous Mannekin Pis and his latest outfit. Have lunch – preferably somewhere serving Belgium frites (fries).

After your meal, go see the Atomium and Mini Europe. Afterwards, treat yourself with some delicious Belgian chocolate.

Save time to explore the Royal Palace if you’re in Brussels while it’s open. Otherwise, choose another museum based on your interests, such as the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the Magritte Museum, the Musical Instruments Museum, the Museum of Natural Sciences, or the Belgian Comic Strip Center.

Sample a couple Belgian beers with dinner. Belgium is known for having some of the best beer in the world, so you don’t want to miss out.

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