How to Spend Two Days in Brussels

Morning: Arrive and settle at the Grand Place

Upon landing, skip the taxis and head straight for the train from the airport — it’s quick, easy and much less of a headache than navigating city traffic. Once downtown, check in at the Marriott Hotel Grand Place. Staying here puts you at the center of everything, making it easy to squeeze in a lot of sightseeing, dining and shopping without wasting time.

Drop off your bags and hit the cobblestone streets — Grand Place is right on your doorstep. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this central square is adorned with Gothic architecture and buzzing café culture. Snap a few photos and then dive into the city.

Late morning: Take a private walking tour

Get acquainted with Brussels by joining a private walking tour. A good local guide will, of course take you to the main attractions — but they’ll sprinkle in the kind of insider tips you won’t find in guidebooks. Here are some highlights you can expect along the way:

• Manneken Pis: This tiny statue of a peeing boy is a quirky Brussels icon and a quick, fun photo stop.

• Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert: Wander under the elegant glass ceilings of this shopping arcade, perfect for boutique browsing or a coffee break.

• Mont des Arts: Climb to this garden terrace for sweeping views over Brussels — it’s the perfect photo-op spot!

• Bourse (Stock Exchange Building): This impressive neoclassical structure is worth a quick stop as you explore the city center. Nearby, the vibrant St. Catherine neighborhood is perfect for a drink or some people-watching.

• Delirium Café: If time allows, pop into this world-famous bar, which boasts over 2,000 beers on its menu. Even if you’re not a beer enthusiast, the quirky decor and energetic vibe make it a fun place to explore.

While you stroll, make a pit stop at Maison Dandoy. Their waffles are legendary! For today, get the Brussels waffle. Tomorrow you can try the other famous style of Belgium waffle… more to come later!

Afternoon: Explore Brussels' art scene

After your walking tour, explore the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and its surrealist collection. Art lovers will appreciate the works of René Magritte. Tthis exhibit is a deep dive into the surrealist movement, with plenty of mind-bending masterpieces to see.

On your way back to the hotel, swing by Mont des Arts Clock. Every hour, twelve bronze figures dance in time with a musical chime — an enchanting touch of Belgian history that’s worth catching in action.

Evening: Cocktails and Belgian fare

Start the night with pre-dinner cocktails at Chemistry & Botanics. Known for their botanical-infused concoctions, this laid-back bar serves some of the most inventive drinks in town. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

For dinner, head to Le Marmiton, inside the Galeries Royales. This intimate spot serves Belgian classics with a modern twist. Order the moules-frites and escargots — the portions are shareable, and the cozy vibe makes it an ideal setting for your first night in the city.

Morning: Discover the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market

Start your morning at the Place du Jeu de Balle, one of Brussels’ oldest flea markets. Whether you’re into vintage finds or unique souvenirs, this bustling market offers a treasure trove of items. You’ll find everything from antique furniture to retro vinyl — expect to leave with at least a few one-of-a-kind mementos.

Mid-morning: Chocolate hunting

No trip to Brussels is complete without a proper chocolate crawl. Two must-visit spots include Neuhaus, the birthplace of the praline, and Chocolaterie Mary, known for its artisanal creations. Try a few samples while stocking up on goodies to take home — or enjoy them on the train ride to your next destination like I did!

Late morning: Visit Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon

After satisfying your sweet tooth, head to the Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon. This Gothic church, with its vibrant stained glass windows and serene interior, offers a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. Spend some time soaking in the tranquility before moving on to your next adventure.

Lunch: A local bite at De Pistolei

Make your way to De Pistolei for a quick and satisfying lunch. The baguettes here are top-notch, especially the one with creamy brie. If you are into deliciously simple lunch options, this is the spot!

Afternoon: One last waffle and a farewell stroll

Before saying goodbye to Brussels, treat yourself to another round of waffles — this time, try the Liège waffle. Unlike the light and crispy Brussels waffle, this version is sweeter, denser, and features caramelized sugar pearls baked into the dough. Both are delicious, so it’s only right to try both during your stay and determine your favorite for yourself!

After your snack, enjoy a leisurely walk back to the Grand Place. Soak in the last bits of Brussels’ charm as you collect your bags and head for the train station, ready for your next destination.