Brussels stands as the heart of the European Union, with historic appeal and modern energy permeating through Belgium’s capital. The compact city centre puts major attractions within walking distance, making it ideal for a one day Brussels itinerary.
Are you craving world-class chocolates, hunting for comic book murals, or wanting to marvel at gold-gilded architecture? Brussels is the place for you – the city packs centuries of culture into its walkable core. With careful planning, you can experience the city’s highlights in just 24 hours, from the UNESCO-listed Grand Place to the trendy food markets.
Time to see how you can spend one day in Brussels with my handy itinerary plus tips on transport, getting around and where to stay.
Planning Tips For One Day in Brussels
Map Of Things To Do In Brussels
While I couldn’t fit everything into one day in Brussels, I’m happy to share my research to help you plan your visit. I hope this map of things to do in Brussels becomes a helpful guide for exploring the city.
|| CLICK FOR MAP OF WHAT TO DO IN BRUSSELS
Getting to Brussels by Train
Brussels’ central location and strong rail connections make it easily accessible from most major European cities, and the most sustainable transport option. I arrived from Amsterdam on the European Sleeper and departed from Brussels to London on the Eurostar.
The Eurostar connects London to Brussels in just 2 hours, while the Thalys high-speed network links Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne directly to the Belgian capital. Train travel cuts CO2 emissions by up to 90% compared to flying.
For the best ticket prices, book your journey 2-3 months ahead – Eurostar does flexi-tickets so you can always change your dates and pay the extra if your plans change.
|| CHECK TRAIN ROUTES FROM BRUSSELS
Tips for Sustainable Sightseeing in Brussels
Brussels’ layout makes walking an excellent way to experience the city. Most major attractions sit within a 20-minute walk of each other, letting you take in the street life, architecture, and local culture at your own pace.
The STIB-MIVB public transport network offers a frequent service. Single tickets cost €2.30, while day passes run €8.90 – both available at station machines or through the STIB app. Metro lines 1 and 5 connect most tourist spots, running from 5:30 AM to midnight on weekdays and 6 AM – 12:30 PM at weekends.
For cycling fans, the Villo! bike-sharing system maintains 360 stations across Brussels. Pick up bikes using a credit card at automated stands – the first 30 minutes are free with a day pass. The flat city centre suits casual riders, with dedicated bike lanes on major routes.
Consider purchasing the Brussels Card. Depending on your length of stay, they’re valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours after first activation, and can save money on individual entrance to 49+ museums and attractions, discounts in restaurants and bars, and free public transport or deals on Villo! bike rental.
|| YOU MAY LIKE TO READ MY GHENT CITY GUIDE
How To Spend One Day In Brussels
Visit the Musée Magritte Museum
René Magritte is one of Belgium’s most famous surrealist artists and I jumped at the chance to visit the Musée Magritte Museum dedicated to his life and works. Located in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, it houses the world’s largest collection of Magritte’s paintings and drawings.
As I wandered through the galleries, I was mesmerised by his dreamlike imagery, clever illusions, and thought-provoking symbolism. From iconic pieces like Forbidden Literature to lesser-known works, the Musée Magritte Museum is a must-visit attraction in Brussels.
|| TOP TIP: Grab a Brussels Museum Pass for 49+ attractions with an option to include public tranport
Visit The Old Masters Museum
The Old Masters Museum showcases an incredible collection of European paintings from the 15th to 18th centuries. Part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, it features great works by Flemish and Dutch artists like Rubens, Bruegel, and Van Dyck, alongside works from the Italian and Spanish schools.
Admittedly, the Old Masters and religious iconography are not my scene. However, I loved wandering through the galleries, admiring some of the colossal Baroque paintings and smaller Renaissance details. When I discovered the work of Tobias Verhaecht, the tiny details in his vast landscapes drew me into his masterpiece.
Walk around Jardin du Mont des Arts
The Jardin du Mont des Arts is a beautifully landscaped urban garden, originally envisioned by King Leopold II in the early 20th century. It was first developed as a temporary garden for the 1910 Universal Exhibition before being redesigned in the 1950s by architect René Pechère.
Also called the Garden of the Kunstberg, the finest vantage point is from the elevated platform just below Koningsplein (Place Royale) with sights of symmetrical flower beds and the spire of the Town Hall. It’s among the best views in Brussels whatever the season.
Lunch in the WOLF Sharing Food Market
Take a lunch break at WOLF Sharing Food Market — no matter what you’re craving, there’s a street food stall for everyone, from Belgian flavours to Mediterranean, Asian, Peruvian and vegan dishes.
Housed in a beautifully converted former bank, this buzzing food hall has communal seating and a cool industrial vibe with upcycled decor. I always love trying local craft beers when I travel, so WOLF was perfect with a microbrewery on-site. They partner with Belgoo, known for high-fermentation and organic brews. I was more than happy, munching on a samosa, sipping a classic Belgian ale, and watching the world go by!
WOLF Sharing Food Market || REVIEWS || LOCATION
Enjoy the Grand-Place
The Grand-Place in Brussels, also known as the Grote Markt, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 12th century. The first thing that caught my eye was the gold-adorned buildings and the incredible mix of Baroque, Gothic, and neo-Gothic architecture surrounding the square. I couldn’t stop looking around, taking in every intricate detail, from the guild halls to the Town Hall and the Maison du Roi (King’s House). Everywhere I turned, there was something impressive to admire – it’s easy to see why the Grand-Place is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe
|| BOOK A GUIDED TOUR || FREE Walking Tour of Brussels OR check other Brussels Walking Tours
Visit The Manneken Pis
Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a boy urinating in a fountain basin. Despite its modest size, this quirky cultural icon has captured the hearts of many and has become one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks.
Designed by sculptor Jérôme Duquesnoy in the early 17th century, Manneken Pis is surrounded by numerous legends. One well-known tale recounts a young boy saving the city by urinating on a fire to extinguish it, while another story tells of a boy relieving himself during a siege, taunting enemy soldiers and lifting the spirits of the locals.
The statue is more than just a tourist attraction; it plays a significant role in local customs and celebrations. Manneken Pis is a style icon with a wardrobe of over 1,000 costumes and even has an official dresser. Yes, you heard that right! In 1755, an act was passed whereby the City of Brussels officially appointed a person with the sole authority to dress Manneken Pis — a tradition that continues to this day. His outfits are ceremoniously changed for special occasions, holidays and cultural events.
Explore The Street Art in Brussels
Brussels is famous for its Comic Strip Route, where larger-than-life murals celebrate iconic Belgian comics like Tintin, The Smurfs, and Lucky Luke. But beyond the comics, I loved spotting thought-provoking graffiti, political art, and stunning large-scale pieces by artists like Phlegm, Bonom and ROA.
I was in my element exploring Brussels’ open-air gallery, spotting bold murals and inspiring street art tucked away in its streets and alleyways. With just one day in Brussels, I barely scratched the surface of their urban art scene. Next time I visit Belgium’s capital, taking a street art tour of Brussels will be at the top of my list.
Dinner in The Beer’s Garden
I wanted to escape the tourist crowds around Grand Place, so I headed to Place Sainte-Catherine, known for its great neighbourhood vibe. With the sun shining, I grabbed a spot for dinner al fresco at The Beer’s Garden, right by the beautiful St. Catherine’s Church.
I went for stoofvlees, a traditional Flemish beef stew, served with Belgian fries. I washed it down with a Lindemans beer — a family-run brewery from Vlezenbeek that specialises in lambic beers. Sitting back with my drink, digging into my delicious food and appreciating the lively square was the perfect way to wrap up my day in Brussels.
The Beer’s Garden || REVIEWS || LOCATION
PIN for One Day in Brussels
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