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How To Spend One Day in Brussels?

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How To Spend One Day in Brussels?

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to explore one of Europe’s great capital cities, then you can’t go wrong with a trip to Brussels. This vibrant city offers plenty to do and see in a single day, and there are plenty of attractions to satisfy any kind of traveler. To help you plan a memorable one-day trip to Brussels, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants, attractions, and activities to make the most of an unforgettable day out.

Where to Start

The best place to start your day in Brussels is at the iconic Grand Place. Right in the heart of the city and surrounded by ornate gothic buildings, taking a stroll around this area will give you a great overview of the capital. Here, you’ll find the Goldsmith Tower and Viollet-le-Duc’s City Hall, as well as countless cafés and restaurants serving up delicious local food and beer. From here, you can hop onto one of the free tourist buses to see some of the other must-see sites around the city.

Eat Local Favourites

If you’re looking for options for lunch, then you can’t go wrong with enjoying some classic Belgian cuisine. One of the most popular dishes in the city is mussels with fries; served either in a garlic-and-cream sauce called “Marinière’ or cooked with spices in tomato sauce and white wine. There are loads of restaurants around the city that serve up this classic dish but one of the most popular is Maison Antoine, home to some of the best mussel dishes in Brussels.

Attractions to Visit

After lunch, head over to the Atomium – one of Brussels’ most iconic attractions. This 102-metre tall steel structure was created for the 1958 World Fair and is made up of nine spheres connected by tubular walkways with elevators. Once you get to the top, you can enjoy incredible views of the Belgian capital and the surrounding countryside.

Right next door to the Atomium is Mini Europe – a miniature version of some of Europe’s most iconic cities and monuments. This attraction features over 350 replicas of historic buildings, monuments and bridges from around Europe and is a great way to explore many different places in one day.

Explore the City Streets

As afternoon sets in, take some time to wander around the cobblestone streets of Brussels or rent a bike and explore some off-the-beaten path neighbourhoods. Make sure to stop at St Catherine’s Square to take in some classic Belgian street art before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many local food stalls.

Catch a Show

End your day with an unforgettable night out; why not watch an amazing cabaret show at Moulin Rouge? This cabaret show is one of the biggest in Europe and has been dazzling audiences since 1902. The show includes everything from music, dance and acrobats to special effects, making it an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Brussels.

Make it an Unforgettable Experience

By following this quick guide for spending one day in Brussels, you can make sure that you make the most out of your trip. From classic Belgian cuisine to unbelievable cabaret evenings and everything in between, Brussels has something for everyone – no matter what your itinerary looks like!

For more information on what to do in Brussels make sure to visit VisitFlanders. They offer downloadable travel guides with all kinds of interesting information, such as what public transportation is available, how much entrance fees cost per attraction and a list of restaurants and bars recommended by locals.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Brussels in One Day

As the capital city of Belgium, Brussels offers a unique mix of history, culture, and cuisine. While many tourists flock to the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis statue, Brussels has more hidden gems that only locals would know. Here’s a guide to exploring Brussels like a true insider:

Local Attractions

One of the lesser-known attractions in Brussels is the Musical Instruments Museum. Located in an Art Nouveau building, the museum boasts a collection of over 8,000 musical instruments from around the world. Another hidden gem is the Atelier Jespers, a museum that showcases the works of the Belgian sculptor Oscar Jespers.

For a relaxing time away from the city bustle, head to the Bois de la Cambre park for a picnic and enjoy nature at its finest.

Dining Spots

Brussels is renowned for its cuisine, particularly Belgian waffles and fries. However, locals know that seafood and mussels should not be missed. Visit Chez Leon or La Marée for a memorable and authentic seafood experience.

If you’re in the mood for a drink with a view, head to the rooftop bar of the Musical Instruments Museum, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Cultural Experiences

One of the most significant cultural experiences in Brussels is the annual event called ‘Flower Carpet,’ held every two years in the Grand Place. The event showcases a breathtaking floral display, and visitors can view it from the balcony of the Town Hall.

Another must-visit spot is the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, which houses over 20,000 works of art, including Belgian masters such as Magritte and Ensor.

Local History

For those interested in history, visit the Cantillon Brewery, which has been brewing traditional lambic beer for over a century. You can learn about the beer-making process and sample some of the brewery’s best brews.

The Belgian Comic Strip Center is another stop for history buffs, which highlights the history and impact of comics such as Tintin, Asterix, and the Smurfs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, visit the Atomium, a futuristic structure resembling an iron molecule. Take the lift to the top for a panoramic view of the city, and don’t forget to stop at the exhibition halls on each floor to learn about the structure’s history and design.

Finally, make sure to visit the Marolles neighborhood, a lesser-known area of Brussels that has retained an authentic feel with its narrow streets and small shops. Here, you’ll find some of the best antique shops and flea markets in the city.

In conclusion, one day is not enough to explore all the hidden treasures of Brussels. However, with this insider’s guide, you can get a glimpse of what the city has to offer, beyond the common tourist spots. Remember to keep an open mind and explore the city like a local for an unforgettable experience.

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How To Spend One Day in Brussels?

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!