Only 24 Hours in Brussels? Do This for an Unforgettable Trip!

Taking a day trip to Brussels, Belgium, and need help planning your itinerary?

Then you’re in luck. In this guide, I outline the best way to spend 1 day in Brussels so you can make the most of your limited time in the city. This itinerary is perfect for experiencing the culture and atmosphere of this European capital.

This jam-packed itinerary is based on my time traveling in Brussels. I loved exploring the city, taking in the beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, and learning about Belgian history.

If you’re looking for a one day Brussels itinerary that will keep you busy and help you make the most of your quick trip to Brussels then is for you. Let’s jump in!

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Table of Contents

Why Visit Brussels?

Your time is precious, so you might be asking yourself, “Why should I visit Brussels?”

Brussels is a dynamic city full of stunning architecture, rich history, incredible food, world-class art, scenic green spaces, and, of course, famously strong beers.

Brussels is home to Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It’s the place to try traditional Belgian cuisine, like moules-frites (mussels and fries), waffles, and chocolates.

The city is also teeming with art and history. Visit the Musees Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique to experience centuries of Belgian art, from Jan van Eyck to René Magritte. Or, head to the Belgian Comic Strip Center to learn about the art of comics.

In short, Brussels is full of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences, and welcomes visitors to enjoy all of them.

Beautiful Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium. The iconic baroque guilded buildings are lit up in the sun while pedestrians mill around in front.

How to Get to Brussels

As Belgium’s capital and the heart of the European Union, Brussels is well-connected and easy to reach, whether you’re flying in, taking a train, hopping on a bus, or driving.

By Air

Brussels Airport (BRU), the country’s main international hub, is just 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the city center and serves flights from major destinations across Europe, North America, and beyond.

From the airport, a direct train to Brussels Central Station takes around 30 minutes, making it the fastest and most budget-friendly option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but cost considerably more without saving much time.

For those flying with budget airlines, Charleroi Airport (CRL) is about an hour away, with shuttle buses running directly to Brussels.

By Train

Brussels is well connected by train to other major European cities. High-speed services like Thalys, Eurostar, and ICE link Brussels to Paris, London, and Amsterdam in just a few hours.

The city’s three main train stations—Brussels-Midi (Zuid), Brussels-Central, and Brussels-North—ensure convenient transiting for those arriving by rail.

By Car or Bus

If you’re planning to rent a car, then driving to Brussels is straightforward. Major highways connect the city to its neighbors, but train travel is often faster. Expect a drive time of about three hours from Amsterdam and over four hours from Paris.

For budget-conscious travelers, long-distance buses like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus provide affordable routes to Brussels from various European cities.

The Town Hall of Brussels, a Gothic-style building with an ornate facade and a towering central spire, stands against a clear blue sky at the Grand Place. The intricate details of the architecture, including arched windows, statues, and decorative turrets, are highlighted by the sunlight. Flags hang from the building’s exterior, and the cobblestone square in front is mostly empty. — Grand Place, Brussels

One Day in Brussels Itinerary

Morning: Orientation to the city

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel you through a day of sightseeing.

While many hotels offer breakfast, you can always opt for a cafe in town or inside the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the oldest shopping arcade in Europe.

Take a walking tour

Once you’re fueled up and ready to go, head to Grand Place to meet the guide for your morning walking tour.

One of the best ways to experience a new city is by taking a walking tour. What I love about this Brussels walking tour is that it takes you through the city’s rich history, from its medieval and Baroque roots to its modern evolution.

On this comprehensive tour, you’ll visit Brussels’ Lower City and Upper City. In the Lower City, you’ll wander through the heart of Brussels, stopping at famous landmarks like Grand Place and Manneken Pis, the city’s de facto mascot, a statue of a peeing boy often dressed in various costumes. Along the way, your guide will point out hidden gems, local legends, and the remnants of the city’s industrial past.

In the Upper City, you’ll see the more regal and sophisticated side of Brussels. Here you’ll pass by the Royal Palace of Brussels, the Royal Park, and the stunning Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, where royal weddings occur. Along the way, your guide will provide narration detailing the city’s important history and significant events.

A woman sits on a stone balustrade in front of the Royal Palace of Brussels, under a clear blue sky with the Belgian flag flying atop the building. The scene suggests the importance of packing casual yet stylish clothing for Europe in spring, with layers to adapt to varying weather.

Other highlights of the tour include visiting the elegant hallways of the Galeries Royales St. Hubert and the iconic Mort Subite, a historic café known for its Belgian beers.

Beyond the sights, you’ll also get insider tips on the best museums, chocolate shops, bars, and restaurants, so you can make the most of your time in Brussels.

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, so by the time things wrap up you’ll be ready to grab some lunch. Head to Rue de Bouchers to peruse the various dining options that line the street.

Check rates and availability!

Afternoon: Belgian Art & Culture

After spending the morning wandering the town and soaking up the local history, spend your afternoon visiting Belgium’s premier art museums.

The grand interior of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels, featuring a spacious hall with high ceilings, marble columns, and arched balconies. Large paintings and sculptures line the walls and floor, while visitors stroll, admire the artwork, and sit on benches. Natural light streams in through a glass-paneled ceiling, illuminating the neoclassical architecture.

Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium (Musees Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique)

This large museum complex is comprised of six different museums, each requiring its own ticket. It’s one of the best attractions in Brussels and a must-visit for art lovers.

Since you’re only in Brussels one day, I wouldn’t spend too much time visiting all the galleries inside. Instead, choose one gallery from the Old Masters (Flemish Renaissance and Baroque art: think Rembrandt, Hieronymus Bosch, Frans Hals, Rubens), Musee fin-de Siecle (early 20th-century art: van Gogh, Rodin, Seurat), and the Magritte Museum (dedicated to the life and art of Belgian artist Rene Magritte).

*Note: As of January 2024, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum is closed to the public.

While each of these galleries is worth visiting, seeing all three takes at least 3 hours. Choose one and dedicate an hour to it. I recommend purchasing the audio guide, especially for the Magritte Museum, so you can learn about the life of this famous Belgian painter.

Mont des Arts

Once you leave the museum, head to Mont des Arts, one of Brussels’ most beautiful urban green spaces.

This planned square offers lovely panoramic views of the city alongside colorful gardens and magnificent statues. It’s the perfect place to stroll, people-watch, and sit for a minute to grab a drink.

A hand holds a cone of crispy golden Belgian fries wrapped in newspaper-print paper on a cobblestone street. In the background, people are gathered outside a café, and a child in a stroller is visible.

Refuel with some pommes frites

After a busy day of sightseeing and being on your feet, you’re probably ready for a bit of a break. Plus, you can’t leave without eating some fries in Belgium!

While there are many places to grab a cone of Belgian fries, one of the most notable is Café Georgette. The fries here are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served in a newspaper cone that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Sauce them up with some mayonnaise and you have a perfect snack.

A nighttime view of the Grand Place in Brussels, Belgium, with its opulent Baroque and Gothic-style buildings illuminated against the dark sky. The moon shines above, casting a subtle glow, while people gather in the cobblestone square, some taking photos and others sitting or walking. The Town Hall’s tower stands prominently on the right, adorned with intricate details and a clock.

Evening: A Final Wander

We’ve managed to pack a lot into this one day visit to Brussels, so wrap up your day with a final wander.

One of the best things to do in Brussels is stroll the narrow streets and alleys. You’ll stumble upon comic book murals, random statues (often of creatures peeing), and beautiful architecture.

Take time to pop into the many chocolate shops you see, purchasing some to bring home to share (or not) with friends and family.

Finally, return to Grand Place one final time. The central square of Brussels really is an impressive place. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

If you have time, end your time in Brussels with a final meal here in the square. Dine on some mussels and fries or a Flemish soup, and wash it all down with a strong Trappist ale.

Brussels in Two or Three Days

If you have two or three days in Brussels, here are some other worthwhile attractions to add to your itinerary:

Church of Our Lady of Victories at the Sablon (Eglise Notre-Dame des Victoires au Sablon) – A beautiful Catholic church full of colorful stained glass.
Brussels City Museum – Covers the history and folklore of the city of Brussels, including the original Manneken Pis statue and a full-scale representation of the town during the Middle Ages.
GardeRobe Manneken Pis – Small museum with costumes Manneken Pis has worn throughout the years. Admission is included with a ticket to the Brussels City Museum.
Take a Beer Tour – Beer lovers can learn about the history of Belgian beers and its links to Trappist monks while sampling many famous beers.
Tour the European Parliament – See the hemisphere and learn how the European Union functions to make decisions that will impact the future of the continent.
Parlamentarium – If you’re visiting Brussels on the weekend when Parliament is closed, head to the adjacent visitor center where you can learn all about the history of the European Union through immersive displays and exhibits.
BELvue Museum – Excellent museum covering Belgian history through a contemporary lens.
Parc du Cinquantenaire – Park and historical sight with a collection of lovely French gardens. The park is also home to a few museums, including Autoworld, the national car museum.
Atomium – A larger-than-life atom built for the 1958 Brussels World Fair. Inside are a variety of exhibits.
MiniEurope – Theme park containing miniature scale replicas of famous landmarks throughout Europe. Perfect for anyone visiting Brussels with kids (or kids at heart).
Musical Instruments Museum – Contains over 8,000 instruments, exhibiting antique instruments, including the oldest preserved saxophone.
Comics Art Museum – This one’s for anyone who grew up reading TinTin or The Smurfs, this museum honors the art of the comic, with a special emphasis on Belgian comic book authors.
Hergé Museum – TinTin lovers can visit this museum dedicated to the life and work of Belgian cartoonist Georges Remi (AKA Hergé).

Where to Sleep in Brussels

If you’re short on time, choosing a centrally located hotel is essential.

Staying near Grand Place, Brussels’ main square, puts you right in the heart of the city with easy access to major attractions and Brussels Central Station. This area is ideal for visitors who want to explore without spending too much time transiting.

For a solid mid-budget option, consider Ibis Hotel Grand Place. The rooms are simple but clean and comfortable, and the hotel offers a fantastic breakfast for an additional fee. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best rates.

Check hotel rates and availability!

The Manneken Pis statue in Brussels, Belgium. The statue/fountain is of a little boy peeing.

Getting Around Brussels

While the best way to get around Brussels is on foot. The city center is very compact and the sights you’ll have time to visit in Brussels in just one day are all within walking distance of each other.

To leave central Brussels, buses are convenient and run regularly. The metro is also a great option for reaching further sites such as the EU Parliament, Parc Cinquantenaire, the Atomium, or Mini Europe.

FAQ: One Day in Brussels

Can Brussels be done in one day?

Yes, you can spend one day in Brussels and still see many highlights, including Grand Place, Brussels Cathedral, and some of the best chocolate shops in Brussels. While two or three days will give you a deeper experience, a well-planned one-day itinerary can cover the city’s top sights efficiently.

How do I spend a day in Brussels?

Start at Grand Place, also referred to as Grote Markt. From there you can take a walking tour to see all the city highlights, including the Brussels Cathedral and Royal Palace. Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, then end your day with a traditional Belgian meal.

Is one day in Brussels worth it?

Absolutely! Even with limited time, Brussels is a great city and worth a visit. There are many must-see landmarks like Grand Place, historic buildings that date back centuries, and famous places to visit such as the Mont des Arts.

Is Brussels a walkable city?

Yes, Brussels is known for being pedestrian-friendly, especially in the historic center around Grand Place. Many things to see, such as the Galleries Royales St Hubert and Royal Palace, are within walking distance, making it easy to explore Brussels without relying on public transport.

Do they speak English in Brussels?

Yes, while French and Dutch are the official languages, many locals, especially in tourist areas, speak English. You’ll have no trouble communicating when visiting tourist attractions in Brussels, shopping, or dining out.

What to do for a few hours in Brussels?

If you only have a few hours, focus on Grand Place, visit a few chocolate shops in Brussels, and walking up to Mont des Arts for the city views.

What to do in Brussels in 1 day?

In one day, visit Grand Place, explore the historic Brussels Cathedral, and stop by a few chocolate shops. Enjoy a traditional Belgian meal, visit a museum, and end the day with scenic city views from Mont des Arts.

Why is Brussels so famous?

Brussels is known for being the de facto capital of the EU, its stunning Grand Place, and world-class chocolates and beers. The city is also home to beautiful historic architecture, iconic comic book culture, and famous attractions like the official residence of the Belgian royal family.

Image of mural on the side of a building in Brussels, Belgium, reading, "The future is Europe."

Final Thoughts On Spending a Day in Brussels

A day in Brussels is the perfect way to get a taste of the city’s blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. From lovely Grand Place to charming hidden alleyways and Art Nouveau architecture, Brussels offers a mix of iconic sights and local gems waiting to be explored.

Enjoy a Belgian waffle, taste world-class beers, and explore the city’s leafy greenery by strolling through the Parc du Cinquantenaire or Parc de Bruxelles. It’s these little moments that will make your trip truly memorable.

Whether you’re coming as a day trip from Paris or an extended layover, Brussels is a worthwhile destination to spend a day.

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