Things To Do In Brussels For A Day

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and one of the most vibrant cities in Europe. It’s a great place to visit for a day, with a rich history, plenty of entertainment, and some of the most iconic sights in the world.

History of Brussels

Brussels was first founded as a small trading post in the 10th century, though it has grown substantially since then. In the 13th century, it became an important political and economic center, and in the late 19th century, it was declared the capital of the newly created Belgium. Brussels is now home to more than 1.2 million people and is one of the most important cities in Europe.

Famous Sights

Brussels is home to some of the most iconic sights in the world. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for any visitor. This large square is surrounded by stunning gothic and baroque buildings, and it’s home to some of the best restaurants and bars in Brussels.

The Atomium is also a must-see. This iconic structure was built for the 1958 World’s Fair and stands 102 meters tall. It’s made up of nine steel spheres connected by tubes, and visitors can take a lift inside to get views from the top.

The Manneken Pis is a popular tourist attraction, and many visitors come to see the small statue of a boy urinating into a fountain. The statue dates back to the 17th century and has become an iconic symbol of Brussels.

The Royal Palace of Brussels is another popular sight. This striking palace is located in the heart of Brussels and is home to King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. The palace is open to the public during certain times of the year, and visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and courtyards.

Entertainment

Brussels has plenty of entertainment options, from pubs and clubs to art galleries and theaters. The city has an array of bars and clubs that stay open until late, and there are plenty of live music venues to explore. The galleries and museums are also worth exploring, as they showcase some of the best art in Europe.

The food scene in Brussels is also worth exploring. The city is known for its waffles, beer, and chocolate, so make sure to sample some of these delicious treats while you’re there. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up international cuisine, so you’ll be sure to find something to suit your taste.

Shopping

Shopping is a great way to spend an afternoon in Brussels. The city has a variety of shops selling everything from designer clothes to souvenirs. The Grand Place has plenty of shops selling local handcrafted items, while Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert has designer stores. There are also plenty of markets where you can pick up fresh local produce and handmade goods.

A Day Tour Of Brussels

A great way to explore Brussels is with a day tour that takes in all the city’s highlights. Many tours will take visitors to the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium, and Royal Palace, as well as some other lesser-known attractions like Sablon Square, Parc de Bruxelles, and Place de Brouckère. Most tours also include a stop at one of the city’s famous beer breweries or chocolate shops.

Brussels City Walking Tour

For a more intimate look at Brussels, take a walking tour around the city with an experienced guide. These tours usually start at the Grand Place, where visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and get an introduction to the city’s history and culture. The tour will take visitors to some of the city’s most iconic sights, including Manneken Pis, Atomium, Sablon Square, Parc de Bruxelles, and Place de Brouckère. Guides will also point out some hidden gems like cafes and bars that are off the beaten track.

Brussels Beer Tasting Tour

For those who love beer, there’s no better place to visit than Brussels. Take a beer tasting tour and explore some of the city’s best breweries and pubs. These tours usually start at the Grand Place and take visitors to some of the city’s top breweries, where they can sample some of Belgium’s most famous beers. Guides will explain the brewing process and tell stories about the city’s rich brewing history.

Chocolate Tasting Tour

Brussels is known for its delicious chocolate, so why not take a chocolate tasting tour? These tours usually start at the Grand Place and take visitors around some of the city’s best chocolate shops. Visitors will learn about the history of chocolate-making in Brussels and sample some delicious treats along the way.

Conclusion

Brussels is a fascinating city with plenty of sights, entertainment, shopping, and food options for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to explore its iconic sights, enjoy its lively nightlife, or sample its delicious beer or chocolate, you’ll find plenty of things to keep you busy during your visit. Be sure to book one of these popular tours for a truly memorable experience: a day tour of Brussels, a Brussels City Walking Tour, a Brussels Beer Tasting Tour, or a Chocolate Tasting Tour. Whatever you choose to do in Brussels, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!