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 full of history, architecture and unique flavours. Even if you're short on time, a single day can be enough to make a big impression. This itinerary will guide you through the most iconic sights 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'll find it less crowded, ideal for admiring its baroque architecture, historic buildings and decorated facades, all of which have been declared World Heritage Sites.

Useful information

• Highlights include 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 bombardments.
• If you want to discover more about its history, book an art and culture tour of Brussels.

Close to the Grand Place stands this 13th-century Gothic jewel, Belgium's main Catholic church. Its imposing exterior is complemented by an interior full of 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 residence 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 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.
• Easy to get to if you book the Brussels sightseeing bus.

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

Useful information

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

The quintessential dessert is the Belgian waffle. The most traditional are the Liège waffles, with sugar sprinkles. If you want to go one step further, take part in a waffle workshop in Brussels.

Useful information

• Try Maison Dandoy's waffles.
• If you prefer chocolate, you can take part 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 local irreverence and humour. You'll always see him in a different costume.

Useful 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 a tour of Belgium's capital

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

Useful information

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

These squares are perfect for a break. You'll find cafés, antiques and galleries among quiet, elegant streets.

Useful information

• On weekends there is an antiques market.
• Place du Petit Sablon has 48 statues representing old trades.

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

Useful information

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

Finish your tour with a visit to the European Parliament visitor centre, ideal 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 European Parliament.

To get around easily, take advantage of the best tourist buses or buy a daily public transport pass. You can also organise your visit according to the best museums in Brussels:

• 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-day, 3-day or 4-day itineraries in Brussels.