How to spend a perfect weekend in Brussels?

2 days city trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is one of the most visited cities in Belgium. Since I live in Ghent, I have already been to Brussels several times. This was often a day trip for shopping, visiting a museum or exhibition or meeting friends. However, I had never really experienced Brussels as a tourist. That is why Jan and I decided to plan a weekend in Brussels with a mission to explore the best things to do and see in the city centre of Brussels for you.

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How to get to Brussels?

All major cities in Belgium are easily accessible by public transport. Since Belgium is such a small country, the journey doesnโ€™t take too long. From Ghent to Brussels it’s half an hour by train. For the weekend there are also special rates that make traveling by train more interesting than by car. In cities public parking is often very expensive.

If you still prefer to travel to Brussels by car, then choose a hotel with parking. Or park on the outskirts of the city and travel there by metro to the city centre. Don’t forget that Brussels has been a low emission zone since 2018. If your car does not meet the requirements, don’t forget to register your vehicle to avoid costs.

Moreover, traffic in Brussels is very busy. Within Brussels you can move easily and quickly by public transport such as the metro or bus. The best way to get to know the city better is of course on foot. You can also use the shared bicycles or scooters.

Because Brussels has such a central location in Belgium it’s the perfect base to explore more of Belgium. Don’t forget to check out the best day trips from Brussels as well.

Where to stay in Brussels?

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

For our weekend in Brussels we chose the 9hotelcentral which is located within walking distance of the central station. The hotel spoke immediately to us because of the location in the heart of Brussels and the semi-industrial/ย vintage interior, which I am huge fan of. This style gives a trendy vibe but also a warm and cosy feeling.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

The price-quality ratio is also important to us. And at this hotel you get value for your money. The rooms are trendy, cosy, warm and inviting. I immediately felt at home. In addition, the rooms are also spacious, very well kept and functionally furnished.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Do you prefer to stay somewhere else? Check out this map for more hotels in Brussels and find out the best deals.


Booking.com

 

How to spend a weekend in Brussels?

Grand Place

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

If you like historical architecture, vibrant atmosphere, culture and local specialties, you canโ€™t miss the Grand Place and its surroundings!

The Grand Place is one of Europe’s most beautiful markets and is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list because of its beautiful historic buildings.The Grand Place is the starting point of a maze with little streets and alleys where you can wander off. In these streets you will find shops with local specialties and souvenirs. Do not forget to enjoy delicacies like a fries with mayonnaise or a Brussels waffle with toppings of your choice. This is definitely one of the things Belgium is famous for.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

One thing you can miss on your weekend in Brussels is bringing a visit to โ€˜Manneke Pisโ€™. This is one of the most famous Belgian monuments and is a symbol of the city of Brussels.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

The most beautifully decorated shop windows and the best Brussels chocolate shops can be found in the galleries of St. Hubert. These glass-covered shopping galleries are a treasure for strolling by and window shopping.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Rue de Boucher

Afterwards you can also walk through the famous Rue de Boucher. This is especially at best in the evening when all restaurants are open, than the street lights completely up. Itโ€™s such a vibrant neighbourhood. Waiters are outside trying to seduce you to come in and eat in their restaurantsโ€ฆ How attractive this may look. Try to resist the temptation. These are often tourist traps! To have a nice meal, you can walk a little further to the next neighbourhood.

In a side street of rue de Boucher you will find the Dรฉlirium cafe. There you can drink all kinds of Belgian beers from the draft. The cafe is quite dark, but it has that typical interior you expect from a beer cafe. When you consider going there for some beer tasting, go down to the basement. It is much nicer and cosy to sit there. If you’re into belgian beer, than you should definitely consider doing a belgian beer tour in Brussels.

The Dansaert

As I mentioned before, do not be tempted to dine in Rue de Boucher. Continue your path a little further to the trendy neighbourhood the Dansaert. In the Rue De Flandre you will find nice and cosy restaurants with delicious food and good value for your money. There are also trendy and nice bars where you can go for a drink after dinner.

We went for dinner in VIVA M’BOMA. Here you can enjoy typical Brussels cuisine in a nice setting. Try to book in advance especially in weekends. Afterwards we enjoyed a nice cocktail in Bar Des Amis.

Mont des Arts & Place Royal

The name speaks for itself. The Mont des Arts is a hill full of culture. If you are a real culture lover and like visiting museums, this is the perfect place for you. You can find the best museums over here, including the famous Museรฉ Magritte.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

On top of the hill you have a beautiful panorama view of Brussels. If you want a more exclusive view, be sure to eat or drink something in the MIM, the museum of musical instruments. This is also beautiful historical building with a restaurant on the top floor. There you have an excellent view of Brussels.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

On the way to the top of the Mont de Arts you will find La Pharmacie Anglaise. This is a beautiful cocktail bar. It was originally a pharmacy. The cocktail bar is completely decorated in the theme of an old Pharmacy. The interior is simply magnificent and you can drink somewhat more special cocktails than in a regular cocktail bar. Itโ€™s so worth it. The cocktail bar is only open in the evening and if you want a spot itโ€™s better to reserve in advance.

When you reach the top of Mont des Arts, you will arrive at the Place Royal. From there you can take two directions. One to the Palais Royal and a second one to the Sablon.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Palais Royal & Parc de Bruxelles

From the Place Royal itโ€™s not far to visit the royal palace. It’s definitely worth to go for a short walk and see where the king of Belgium works. There is also a beautiful city park in front of the palace. Besides the palace there are many more beautiful castles near Brussels. So if you have some extra time to spend, you definitely need to check them out as well.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Petit & Grand Sablon

If you go to the other side from Place Royal you will reach the neighbourhood of the Sablon. The Petit Sablon is a small, but very beautifully landscaped park and a very nice place to just relax for a while. The Grand Sablon is the perfect area to do some shopping. You will find nice antique shops, shops with local specialties and nice, atmospheric bars. I really loved wandering through this neighbourhood.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

If you walk a little further, you can take a lift to the Palais de Justice where you also have a panoramic view of Brussels. Personally, I didnโ€™t think this was so spectacular. I prefer the panoramic view on top of the MIM.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Marolles & Place du Jeu de balle

If you want to do real bargains then donโ€™t forget to go to Place de Jeu de balle for the daily flea market. Itโ€™s only open in the mornings. Every day itโ€™s packed with beautiful vintage items. Sometimes prices are high, but donโ€™t forget to negotiate prices. Thatโ€™s the way to business over here!

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

In the neighbourhood around the Placce du Jeu de balle you will find authentic vintage and antique shops. Itโ€™s a nice place just to wander around. Donโ€™t forget to threat yourself after shopping on an aperitif in a traditional, local Brussels bar.

2 days ofcity trippen in Brussels | Belgium

Other things to do in Brussels

Of course there are many more sights in Brussels. Don’t forget to check the offers of Get your guide, the ideal travel partner for guided tours or for booking entrance tickets for the most special sights, below.

Video weekend in Brussels

Don’t forget to watch the compilation video about how we spent a weekend in Brussels

During our weekend in Brussels, we especially enjoyed exploring the city and the traditional, vibrant Brussels atmosphere.

Would you like more tips for a weekend in Brussels? Check ouyt my favorite travel guides below. These willย  help you plan an unforgettable city trip to Brussels.





Are you planning to visit more Belgian cities. Be sure to check out my blog posts abouthow to spend a day in Bruges , the best things to do in Damme,ย  the most beautiful places in Ghent , where to stay in Ghent and this amazing city guide about Antwerp written by a local.

What can’t be missing from you weekend in Brussels? Let me know in the comments below.

Thank you for reading.

Yours truly,

Sarah

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12 thoughts on “How to spend a perfect weekend in Brussels?

  1. Petrina says:

    I’ve been to Brussels only once, last Christmas. It was too crowded, I am wondering if that’s always the case, but I managed to do all the things you suggested; at least I think so, because I am not good with names! I liked Brussels and this post reminded me of all these good days there, but Bruges stole my heart! Next time I wish to go to Ghent so I will follow all your advice!

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Yes Brussels can get very crowded especially during the holidays. I do hope you visit Ghent and after that visit let me know if Bruges is still your favorite ๐Ÿ™‚

  2. Olivia says:

    Great post! I visited Brussels for the first time last year, but only for a day. Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert was definitely one of my favorite spots, as well as Grand Place (which is indeed very grand and beautiful). I’d love to go back and explore some more of the places you mentioned!

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Yes, this is one of the many thing I really love Belgium, the historical architecture ๐Ÿ™‚

  3. Kriszti says:

    Brussels looks absolutely incredible! I can’t believe I still haven’t managed to visit – it’s time to change that! ๐Ÿ™‚

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