Brussels in 3 Days: A Journey Through Culture, History, and Delight

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by Riley

March 29, 2024 · 3 min read

Brussels 3 Days Itinerary

Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through Brussels, a city brimming with cultural heritage and vibrant experiences. Start your adventure at the iconic Manneken Pis, a quirky fountain that's a symbol of the city's irreverent spirit. Just a short walk away, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its opulent guild houses and the majestic Town Hall. After soaking in the historic atmosphere, unwind at the Délirium Café, famed for its extensive selection of Belgian beers. Next, marvel at the Gothic beauty of St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral before diving into the colorful world of the Belgian Comic Strip Center. On your second day, ascend to the Mont-des-Arts for a panoramic view of the city's cultural heart. Continue your artistic exploration at the Musical Instruments Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, where masterpieces await your admiration. Stroll through the regal Royal Square and the charming Place du Grand Sablon, perfect for antique lovers and chocolate aficionados. Conclude your trip with a visit to Mini-Europe, where you can see the continent's landmarks in miniature. Don't miss the Atomium, an architectural wonder that offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. Finally, relax in the serene Ossegempark, a green oasis that's ideal for a leisurely walk or picnic. With this itinerary, you'll experience the essence of Brussels, from its historic roots to its modern allure.

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Cheap Flights
Top 6 Hotels in Brussels
TOP 1
Holiday Inn Brussels Airport
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Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel
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Moxy Brussels City Center
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Novotel Wavre Brussels East
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DoubleTree by Hilton Brussels City
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Hilton Brussels Grand Place
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Day 1: Unveiling Brussels' Charms - From Iconic Statues to Historic Squares

1

Manneken Pis

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Kick off your Brussels adventure with a visit to the whimsical Manneken Pis, an emblematic fountain featuring a cheeky bronze sculpture of a little boy in mid-merriment. Although the visit is brief, this quirky landmark captures the playful spirit of Brussels and is a must-see photo opportunity located at Manneken Pis 1000 Brussels Belgium.

Attraction Info

  • Manneken Pis 1000 Brussels Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 5-15 minutes
  • Open 24 hours

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2

Grand-Place

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Next, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Grand-Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to Brussels' rich history. Spend half an hour marveling at the ornate guild houses, the opulent Town Hall, and the stunning architecture that makes this square one of the most beautiful in Europe, located at Grand-Place, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.

Attraction Info

  • Grand-Place, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
  • Open 24 hours
3 min,0.25 km
3

Délirium Café

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After soaking in the historic atmosphere, unwind at Délirium Café, renowned for its extensive selection of beers. Dedicate an hour to savoring unique brews in this iconic bar, a true paradise for beer aficionados nestled in the heart of the city at Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.

Attraction Info

  • Impasse de la Fidélité 4, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
  • Open on Sun,11:00am-2:00am;Open on Fri-Sat,11:00am-4:00am;Open on Mon-Thu,11:00am-3:00am
8 min,0.57 km
4

St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels

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Continue your cultural journey at the St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. Spend half an hour admiring the Gothic architecture and the serene ambiance of this majestic church that has witnessed centuries of history, located at Pl. Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium.

Attraction Info

  • Pl. Sainte-Gudule, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
  • Open from 8:00am-6:00pm
5 min,0.42 km
5

Belgian Comic Strip Center

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Conclude your day with a creative twist at the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Dedicate an hour to exploring the colorful world of Belgian comics, an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the art form that brought us beloved characters like Tintin and the Smurfs, located at 20 rue des Sables, B-1000 Brussels.

Attraction Info

  • 20 rue des Sables, B-1000 Brussels
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 1/2-6/30,Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 9/1-6/30,Mon;Open from 7/1-8/31,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 9/1-12/23,Tue-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open from 12/24-12/31,Tue-Sun,10:00am-3:30pm;Closed all day on 1/1;Closed during Christmas,In July and August the museum is open on Mondays (except 21/8 and 28/8).
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Day 2: Cultural Wonders and Historic Squares of Brussels

1

Mont-des-Arts

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Begin your second day in Brussels with a visit to the Mont-des-Arts, a cultural hub nestled in the heart of the city. This historic site offers a panoramic view of Brussels and serves as a gateway to a day filled with art and history. Spend an hour soaking in the ambiance of this picturesque area, where the grandeur of the past meets the creative pulse of the present.

Attraction Info

  • 1000 Brussels, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

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L'Ecailler du Palais Royal
L'Ecailler du Palais Royal
4.6/5 · 30 reviews
0.4 km from attraction
Winehouse Osteria
Winehouse Osteria
4.2/5 · 28 reviews
0.7 km from attraction
L'atelier de Willy
L'atelier de Willy
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LA TRUFFE NOIRE
LA TRUFFE NOIRE
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Comptoir des Galeries
Comptoir des Galeries
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5 min,0.33 km
2

Musical Instruments Museum

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Next, let the harmonious tunes guide you to the Musical Instruments Museum, just a short stroll from Mont-des-Arts. With a collection that spans centuries, this museum is a symphony for the senses, showcasing an array of instruments from around the world. Dedicate an hour to explore the melodies of history and the evolution of musical craftsmanship.

Attraction Info

  • Rue Montagne de la Cour 2, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open on Tue-Fri,9:30am-5:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,10:00am-5:00pm
1 min,0.07 km
3

Royal Square

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Continue your cultural journey to the Royal Square, a mere stone's throw away from the museum. This regal square, with its impressive architecture and historical significance, is the perfect spot to spend half an hour marveling at the grandiosity of Brussels' royal and political heritage.

Attraction Info

  • Rue Montagne de la Cour 2
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
1 min,0.13 km
4

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium enterance

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A short walk will then lead you to the prestigious Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Reserve two hours to immerse yourself in the artistic masterpieces that span from the Old Masters to modern art. The museum's extensive collection is a testament to Belgium's rich artistic tradition and a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Attraction Info

  • Rue de la Régence 3, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-6 hour
  • Open on Tue-Fri,10:00am-5:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,11:00am-6:00pm
4 min,0.33 km
5

Place du Grand Sablon

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Conclude your day with a leisurely hour at the Place du Grand Sablon, a charming square known for its antique shops, chocolatiers, and weekend antiques market. This is the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a cup of coffee, and reflect on the day's artistic adventures amidst the backdrop of Gothic and Baroque buildings.

Attraction Info

  • 1000 Brussels, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open 24 hours
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3.3/59 Reviews
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Day 3: A Miniature Finale and Architectural Wonders in Brussels

1

Mini-Europe

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Begin your final day in Brussels with a whimsical journey through Mini-Europe, a charming park that showcases Europe in miniature. Nestled at Av. du Football 1, this delightful attraction invites you to explore the continent's iconic landmarks at a scale of 1:25. Spend an hour marveling at the intricate models that capture the essence of Europe's architectural heritage, from the leaning tower of Pisa to the chiseled features of Mount Vesuvius. It's a unique opportunity to walk across Europe in just a few steps, making it a perfect start to your day of discovery.

Attraction Info

  • Av. du Football 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 3/9-6/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 7/1-8/31,9:30am-7:00pm;Open from 9/1-9/30,9:30am-6:00pm;Open from 10/1-12/23,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-5:00pm on 12/24,Tue;Open from 12/25-12/30,Mon, Wed-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Open 10:00am-5:00pm on 12/31,Tue;Open from 1/1-1/5,Wed-Sun,10:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 1/6-3/7

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2

Atomium

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Just a stone's throw from Mini-Europe, continue your day with the awe-inspiring Atomium, an emblem of modern architecture and a symbol of Brussels' futuristic vision. Located at Pl. de l'Atomium 1, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to the 1958 Brussels World's Fair. Spend an hour exploring the interconnected spheres that represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. The Atomium offers not only a journey into the atomic age but also panoramic views of the city from its upper sphere, making it a must-visit for both history buffs and those seeking a unique perspective of Brussels.

Attraction Info

  • Pl. de l'Atomium 1, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 10:00am-6:00pm,ADAPTED OPENING HOURS Closed from 22 to 26 January 2024 included: Annual maintenance of the elevator 21 March 2024: From noon - 6pm 20 June 2024: From noon - 6pm 3 October 2024: From noon - 6pm 24 and 31 December 2024: From 10am to 4pm (ticket office closing and last entry in the building at 3pm) 25 December 2024 and 1st January 2025: From noon to 6pm (ticket office closing and last entry in the building at 5:30pm) *The Atomium may close earlier for exceptional reasons.
5 min,0.41 km
3

Ossegempark

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Conclude your Brussels adventure with a tranquil retreat to Ossegempark, a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. This sprawling city park, situated near the Atomium, is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. Dedicate an hour to meander through its lush pathways, relax by the serene ponds, and reflect on the memories made over the past three days. Ossegempark's natural beauty offers a peaceful conclusion to your itinerary, allowing you to soak in the calm atmosphere before bidding farewell to the vibrant city of Brussels.

Attraction Info

  • 1020 Brussels, Belgium
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open 24 hours
3.1/523 Reviews
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Top Things to Do in Brussels-2024

TOP 1
Grand-Place
Grand-Place
4.6/5 · 545 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 35,063 review
Highlights:
Most of the buildings on the Grand Place in Brussels were built in the late 17th century, and the style of that year is still well preserved. In 1998, the Grand Place in Brussels was listed as a World Heritage Site. The main square of Brussels City Hall is rectangular, 110 meters long and 68 meters wide. The ground is entirely paved with granite. The prominent building around the square is the Brussels City Hall, which is a typical Gothic building in Brussels. The spired bell tower is 96 meters high and is decorated with a sculpture of Saint Michel slaying the devil. Swan Cafe There is a swan statue on the left door of the city hall is the Swan Cafe. Opposite the City Hall, the building with the same minaret was once owned by the King of Spain and was called the "House of the King". It is now the National Museum, and the clothes given to the Manneken Pis statue by various countries are also collected here. Statue of Serkras The statue of Serkras located in the corner of the Grand Place in Brussels is not to be missed. This gilded bronze statue was built in memory of the hero Sarkras of Brussels, showing the scene of Serkras before his death. It is said that Touching the statue from left to right brings good luck. The other buildings surrounding the square with various buildings belong to various guild organizations, such as boatmen, tailors, painters, etc. The sculptures on the doors of each guild building are sculptures of revered figures or symbolic animals of the guild. Due to the different construction periods, these buildings reflect a variety of architectural styles such as Gothic, Baroque, Louis XIV and so on. Among them, the Duke of Brabant Building, which is decorated with 19 busts of the Dukes of Brabant, is majestic and magnificent. This group of six buildings was built in 1698 and is the seat of guilds such as mill owners and carpenters. , which is now a cocoa and chocolate museum. In addition to admiring the exquisite and atmospheric buildings, the night view of the Grand Place in Brussels is also a highlight. The murals and carvings on all the buildings are shining brightly when the lanterns are first turned on, which is a good place to shoot night scenes. In addition, since 1971, every two years, on the weekends around August 15, there will be a grand celebration in Brussels Square: the laying of carpets. The tapestry selects begonias grown in the Ghent area. Each time, they are designed with different themes, and the amount of flowers used is as high as 800,000. If you happen to meet, be sure to enjoy the beauty of the flowery square.
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TOP 2
Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis
4.3/5 · 420 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 16,795 review
Highlights:
The Manneken Pis Statue is a must-see for any visitor to Brussels. This cute child peeing is made of bronze and is 60 cm high. It was built in 1619. It is located at the corner of Rudel’Etuve and Ruede Chene in the downtown area, and is surrounded by tourists all year round.
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TOP 3
Atomium
Atomium
4.4/5 · 243 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 15,993 review
Highlights:
The Brussels Atomium is located in the Imundo Municipal Park in the northwestern suburb of Brussels. It was designed by Belgian engineer André Waterkeyn for the Brussels World Exposition in 1958 and has now become a representative Belgian landmark. Unconventional structure This atomic tower adopts the cubic crystal structure of alpha iron magnified by 165 billion times. It consists of 9 large aluminum spheres with a diameter of 18 meters. Each sphere represents an atom and also represents the nine provinces of Belgium. , The balls are connected by hollow steel pipes, each steel pipe is about 29 meters long. The total weight of 9 spheres plus the steel frame structure is 2,200 tons, and the highest sphere is 102 meters above the ground. The surface of each ball is welded with 5800 triangular arc aluminum sheets. Under the sunlight, this imposing building shimmers with silver light, which can be called an unconventional scientific work of art. Top Sphere Overlook At present, 4 spheres of the Atomium are open to the public, and the other spheres are used for research work or rental. From the ground-level circular reception hall, you can take the elevator to the high header ball. This elevator has a speed of up to 5 meters per second, which is the fastest elevator in Europe. The top ball is designed for tourists to enjoy the scenery, surrounded by a fixed circle of tempered plexiglass windows and equipped with multiple telescopes. From the top of the ball, you can see the entire city of Brussels near and far: Brussels City Hall, Sacred Heart National Basilica, Miniature Europe and other buildings can be seen. The tour guide comes down from the top ball, and the metal pipes that run diagonally between the balls can go down to other balls in turn. In these spheres, exhibits on solar energy, atomic energy, aerospace technology, astronomy, and the history of Belgian meteorology are displayed in different categories. At the observation deck on the sixth floor, you can view the Atomium and the 5 balls in it from a very unique angle, which is very interesting. The top half of the delicious restaurant is equipped with a viewing restaurant, and the scenery outside the window is very charming. The restaurant is only open to groups at noon, but you can have dinner here. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance. Dining at an altitude of 100 meters above the ground is an unforgettable experience. There is a dining bar on the bottom of the atomic ball. If you are tired, you can come here to rest and replenish energy. The souvenir shop on the same floor is also not to be missed. There are all kinds of original mugs, earrings, and pens here, which are very creative and can be purchased as appropriate. When night falls, the 9 circles of light bulbs outside each sphere alternately chase and glow. The wonderful lights dot the night scene of Brussels, which is worth seeing.
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TOP 4
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium enterance
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium enterance
4.5/5 · 110 review
taCommentInfo-imageBased on 1,800 review
Highlights:
This is a relatively important art museum in Belgium, with more than 20,000 collections, scattered among the six museums under it, four of which are located in the main building, and the other two are dedicated to serving Belgian artists and are relatively small. , located a few kilometers from the city center. There are many collections in the guided museum, mainly distributed in the four museums in the main building - the Classical Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum, and the Magritte Museum. The Classical Art Museum on the east side of the Classical Art Museum displays paintings and sculptures from the 15th to 18th centuries. The early Flemish paintings and the special area of Bruegel's works can be enjoyed inside. One of the more worth seeing is "The Fall of Icarus" on the second floor, which is known as one of the seven Belgian treasures. On the west side of the Museum of Modern Art are the Museum of Modern Art, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum and the Magritte Museum, which display various paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries. The area is very large, with three floors above ground and eight floors below ground, among which the biggest highlights are the 5th floor and the 6th floor.
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TOP 5
Royal Palace of Brussels
Royal Palace of Brussels
4.5/5 · 95 review
Highlights:
The Royal Palace of Brussels is where the King of Belgium exercises his privileges, receives guests and handles state affairs, and it is also one of the most beautiful buildings in Brussels. In summer, the palace is open to the public and can be visited inside. The Royal Palace is located in front of the Brussels Park, and the central axis of the park passes through the Royal Palace and the Belgian Federal Parliament on the other side. These two opposing buildings represent the Belgian polity - the constitutional monarchy. Standing at the Royal Palace can also overlook the scenery of the entire Brussels Park. Every summer, from the end of July to September, the palace is open to the public, and visitors can enter and visit the emperor's rooms, art galleries, conference rooms and valuable collections inside.
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Brussels 3 Days Itinerary