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

Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city brimming with history, architecture, and unique flavors. Even if you’re short on time, a single day can be enough to leave you with a lasting impression. This itinerary will guide you through the city’s most iconic sights so you can make the most of your stopover.

Start your day at one of the most impressive squares in the world, the Grand Place. Early in the morning, you’ll find fewer people there, making it the perfect time to admire its Baroque architecture, historic buildings, and ornate facades—all designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Useful Information

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

This 13th-century Gothic gem, Belgium’s main Catholic cathedral, stands very close to the Grand Place. Its imposing exterior is complemented by an interior filled with polychrome stained-glass windows, a monumental organ, and a Baroque chapel.

Useful Information

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

After a bit of history, it’s time for some glamour. These 19th-century shopping arcades, with their glass-roofed atrium and elegant boutiques, are a must-see, if only to admire their Parisian style.

Useful Information

• Europe’s first shopping arcade (1847).
• Not much shopping, but plenty of photo opportunities.
• You can get there easily by booking the Brussels sightseeing bus.

You can’t leave without trying a good Belgian beer. Brussels is full of historic bars and breweries, but you can also join a tasting or tour to make the most of the experience.

Useful Information

• Recommended visit: Delirium, holder of the Guinness World Record for the widest variety of beers.
• Another option: the best breweries in Brussels.

The quintessential traditional dessert is the Belgian waffle. The most traditional ones are from Liège, sprinkled with sugar. If you want to take it a step further, sign up for a waffle-making workshop in Brussels.

Useful Information

• Try the waffles at Maison Dandoy.
• If you prefer chocolate, you can take part in one of the best chocolate tastings in Brussels, such as the Chocolate Workshop, the Chocolate-Making Class, or the Chocolate Tour and Workshop.

One of Brussels’ most famous sculptures is this bronze statue of a peeing boy, a symbol of local irreverence and humor. You’ll always see him dressed in a different costume.

Useful Information

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

Located in the upper part of the city, this Gothic church impresses with its elegance. Its interior houses eleven monumental works standing 15 meters tall and an interesting pulpit.

Useful Information

• Free admission.
• The image of the Virgin Mary was brought here by divine command.
• Very close to other must-see attractions in downtown Brussels.

These squares are perfect for relaxing. You’ll find cafés, antique shops, and galleries nestled among quiet, elegant streets.

Useful Information

• An antique market is held on weekends.
• Place du Petit Sablon features 48 statues depicting traditional trades.

One of the city’s most imposing buildings, with a floor area of over 26,000 m², it stands out both for its history and for its panoramic views of Brussels.

Useful Information

• It stands 104 meters tall.
• Access it from the upper part of the city.
• More information on its official website: Palace of Justice.

End your tour by visiting the European Parliament’s visitor center—perfect if you’re a history and politics buff. The visit includes a free multimedia guide and interactive exhibits.

Useful Information

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

To get around easily, take advantage of the best sightseeing buses or purchase a daily public transit pass. You can also plan your visit around Brussels’ top museums, such as:

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

And if you have more time, check out the 2-day, 3-day, or 4-day itineraries for Brussels.