Brussels in 1 Day: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit

Brussels, capital of Belgium and the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city, full of history, architecture and unique flavors. Even if you're short on time, a single day can be enough to make a great impression. This itinerary will guide you through the most emblematic spots to make the most of your stopover.

Start your day in one of the most impressive squares in the world, the Grand Place. Early in the morning you will find it less crowded, ideal to admire its baroque architecture, historic buildings and decorated facades, all declared World Heritage Sites.

Useful information

• Highlights include buildings such as the Hotel de Ville, Maison du Roi, Maison des Ducs de Brabant and Le Pigeon, where Victor Hugo lived.
• The Grand Place was the scene of tragic historical events such as executions during the Inquisition and French bombings.
• If you want to discover more about its history, book an art and culture tour of Brussels.

Very close to the Grand Place stands this Gothic jewel of the thirteenth century, the main Catholic temple of Belgium. Its imposing exterior is complemented by an interior full of polychrome stained glass windows, a monumental organ and a baroque chapel.

Information of interest

• Free admission.
• It houses an organ with more than 4,000 pipes.
• Former residence of the remains of Saint Gúdula.

After a bit of history, it's time for some glamour. These 19th-century shopping arcades, with their glassed-in roofs and chic boutiques, are a must-see, if only to admire their Parisian flair.

Useful information

• First shopping arcade in Europe (1847).
• Little shopping and lots of photos.
• You can get there easily if you book the Brussels sightseeing bus.

You can't leave without tasting a good Belgian beer. Brussels is full of bars and breweries with history, but you can also join a tasting or tour to live the experience to the fullest.

Interesting information

• Recommended visit: Delirium, with Guinness record for variety of beers.
• Another option: the best breweries in Brussels.

The typical dessert par excellence is the Belgian waffle. The most traditional are those of Liège, with sprinkled sugar. If you want to go further, participate in a waffle workshop in Brussels.

Useful information

• Try Maison Dandoy's waffles.
• If you prefer chocolate, you can participate in some of the best chocolate tastings in Brussels such as the Chocolate Workshop, the Chocolate Making Class or the Chocolate Tour and Workshop

One of the most famous sculptures in Brussels is this bronze piss boy, a symbol of irreverence and local humor. You will always see him in a different costume.

Interesting information

• Statue from 1619, stolen and replaced.
• It has a museum: Manneken Pis Costume Museum.
• Other related characters: Jeanneke Pis and Zinneke Pis.
• Included in many tours like this one: book the tour of the capital of Belgium.

In the upper part of the city, this Gothic church surprises with its elegance. Its interior houses eleven monumental works of 15 meters high and an interesting pulpit.

Information of interest

• Free admission.
• The image of the virgin was brought by celestial order.
• Very close to other must-see attractions in the center of Brussels.

These squares are perfect for relaxing. You will find cafes, antiques and galleries among quiet and elegant streets.

Information of interest

• On weekends an antique market is set up.
• Place du Petit Sablon has 48 statues representing ancient crafts.

One of the most imposing buildings in the city, with more than 26,000 m² of floor space, it stands out both for its history and its panoramic views over Brussels.

Useful information

• It is 104 meters high.
• It can be accessed from the upper part of the city.
• More information on its official website: Palace of Justice.

End your tour with a visit to the European Parliament visitor center, ideal if you are a history and politics lover. The visit includes a free multimedia guide and interactive exhibits.

Useful information

• Free admission.
• Available in several languages.
• More info at European Parliament.

To get around easily, take advantage of the best tourist buses or buy a daily public transport pass. In addition, you can organize your visit according to the best museums in Brussels such as:

• Brussels Atomium (check prices and how to buy tickets).
• Autoworld Museum.
• Museum of Musical Instruments.
• Cinquantenaire Museum.
• Banksy Museum.

And if you have more time, check out the 2 days, 3 days or 4 days itineraries in Brussels.