One-Day Brussels Itinerary for Travelers

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and has been the center of Europe’s history, art, and architecture. Now if you are only going to be in this vibrant city for a short while, you might be asking yourself how to spend 24 hours in Brussels. Luckily, here at local/free Belgium, you can get to see the best parts of the capital city with a little planning. Below is the Brussels travel guide that will guide you through some of the best places of interest in Brussels so that you can have a productive day. So let’s start with the following schedule that will obviously make you discover Brussels at its best.

Start Your Day at the Grand Place

History and Significance of the Grand Place

Your one-day tour in Brussels should begin with a visit to its most famous landmark: the Grand Place. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list not only as a representative of the city but also as an example of architecture. The Grand Place, or Grote Markt, is situated in the middle of numerous splendid structures such as the Town Hall & the King’s House. Dating back to the 12th century, the square became the center of political and commercial activities for centuries. It is the best bet because it will help you get an appreciation for the history and the architecture of that city.

When you are in the middle of the Grand Place, you will be surrounded by such beautiful guildhalls, which proves the richness and significance of Brussels during the seventeenth century. It may sound trivial, but do not forget to look at the buildings up close and take a closer look at the gilded things, the domes, and the spires of large buildings. Flowers are usually a common feature of the place during the summer, which makes this important historical place of interest even more beautiful.

Attractions Around the Grand Place

After you have spent some time in the Grand Place, it will be a good idea to have a look around the general vicinity. To reach the capital’s most famous sculpture, just stroll a few steps east from the EU quarter, and you’ll be face to face with Manneken Pis. This small but well-known sculpture made of bronze depicting a little boy peeing has earned the uncautious attitude of the city. You can even see different costumes on her, because the statue is often changed into different outfits.

If you have enjoyed observing Manneken Pis, now it is high time to take a walk along the small streets and lanes around the Grand Place. These streets are filled with nice stores and diners where one can have a cup of coffee or buy some souvenirs. For those of you who crave sweets, do not leave the city without visiting one of the chocolate shops and buying some exquisite Belgian chocolate.

Discover Brussels' Iconic Landmarks

Visit Manneken Pis

Although it is a must-visit place, one cannot afford to miss Manneken Pis when in Brussels. The statue is situated only a few minutes on foot from the square and is, without a doubt, one of the most well-known symbols of Brussels. The statue is not large (it is 68 cm high), but it is an important part of the city’s identity. This statue was made in the 17th century and is wearing a uniform at times, but it has also been known to wear a suit of armor or dress as Santa Claus.

A great number of tourists come to Manneken Pis to capture the statue in a photo; however, it is important to think about the absurdity of the statue’s meaning. In recent decades, the statue gained popularity and became the symbol of New York’s humor; there are several stories about its creation.

Explore the Atomium

Starting from the historical center of Brussels, go to one of the city’s most futuristic buildings—the Atomium. The Atomium was constructed for the Brussels World Expo of 1958 and is a steel sculpture intended to represent a single atom in a molecule that is 165 billion times the size of the real thing. It incorporates nine spheres joined with tubes where people can get in and out by lifts.

After getting inside, you will be able to enjoy a view of the city in the top sphere. The Atomium also contains several exhibitions, so it will be interesting for fans of science and technical activities. If you have time, then do check out the history of the Atomium exhibition, which gives some understanding of the Atomium’s design and meaning.

Indulge in Local Culture and Cuisine

The second idea of gastronomic tourism is one of the most interesting to get to know the culture of Brussels. Two popular products of Belgium, which are chocolate and waffles, are the most enjoyable in Brussels, which is the capital of the country. Wake up early and enjoy a free Belgian waffle—this waffle is cooked to crispy outside and soft inside. When it comes to waffle toppings, they have as many choices, though most locals buy it from roadside stalls and cafés around the city.

It will not be remiss not to taste some of the best chocolates in the world, especially in Brussels. The city harbors chocolate shops such as Neuhaus, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini, which have been producing quality chocolates for decades.

Explore Brussels' Museums and Art Scene

Today, Brussels has a number of important cultural resources that art lovers will appreciate. Of them, getting acquainted with the European art collection in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts is worth it. The museum is a series of galleries; the most famous is the Gallery of Old Masters with paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, and others, modern art, and contemporary art galleries.

Conclusion

In just one day, Brussels offers a wealth of attractions, from historical landmarks to artistic masterpieces and delightful local cuisine. With this itinerary, you can explore the city's highlights, experience its unique culture, and enjoy a fulfilling day of sightseeing. Whether you’re wandering through the Grand Place, admiring the art in world-class museums, or savoring Belgian waffles, Brussels is sure to leave a lasting impression. Make the most of your time in this beautiful city, and be sure to take in all that it has to offer.