Belgium

Brussels

The 'Capital of Europe' is a surreal mix of medieval majesty, Art Nouveau elegance, and quirky comic strip art. It’s a city that doesn't take itself too seriously—home to both the grandest square in Europe and a small statue of a peeing boy.

Destination Overview

Best Time

April–June or December

Length of Stay

2–3 days

Budget Range

Mid-range

Top Things to Do

Grand Place (Grote Markt)

Widely considered the most beautiful town square in the world.

Free

At night (illuminated)

The Atomium & Mini-Europe

An iconic 1958 World's Fair landmark and a park of miniature European monuments.

€17–€30 (Combo)

Sunset

Comic Strip Walk

Explore hidden neighborhoods and over 50 giant comic murals on city walls.

Free

Anytime

Where to Stay

Budget

Sleep Well Youth Hostel

Clean, eco-friendly, central, and famous for its free breakfast.

Mid-Range

Motel One Brussels

High-end design at an affordable price point near the Royal Park.

Luxury

Hotel Amigo

Rocco Forte luxury located just behind the Grand Place in a historic setting.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary

Historic Heart

Morning: Grand Place and local chocolatiers
Afternoon: Magritte Museum & Mont des Arts
Evening: Beer tasting at Delirium Café

Surreal Brussels

Morning: Atomium & Mini-Europe
Afternoon: Comic Strip Center Mural Route
Evening: Marolles district dinner

Bridge to Bruges

Morning: Train to Bruges ('Venice of the North')
Afternoon: Canal boat tour & Belfry climb
Evening: Waffles at Maison Dandoy back in Brussels

How to Get There

Nearest AirportBrussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi (CRL)
Transportation from AirportTrain from BRU (17 mins), STIB Bus #12, or Flibco Shuttle from CRL.
Visa Requirements Schengen Area rules. ETIAS required for visa-exempt countries from late 2026.

Getting Around

Public TransportIntegrated Metro, Tram, and Bus network
Transportation Apps
STIB-MIVB appContactless tapping
Daily Transport Budget$8–$12

Daily Budget

Accommodation$35–$250

Food$30–$70

Transportation$8–$15

Activities$15–$40

Total Per Day~$88–$375

Where to Eat

Fin de Siècle

Hearty Belgian classics in a bustling hall ($$)

Frit Flagey

Arguably the best authentic frites in the city ($)

Must Try Dish

Moules-Frites (Mussels cooked in white wine/celery with crispy fries)

What to Pack

Clothing: Layers and a sturdy umbrella (weather is fickle)
Documents: Passport, ETIAS approval
Gadgets: Wide-angle lens for architecture

Essential Tips

🛡️ Safety: Avoid areas around Brussels-Midi and North stations late at night.

💡 Money: Free entry at many museums on the first Wednesday afternoon.

🤝 Etiquette: They are 'Belgian Fries', not French! Also, sip strong beers slowly.

Important ReminderBelgian beer is very strong (8-12%); eat something hearty.

Top Photo Spots

Mont des Arts city garden view
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert glazed arcade
Manneken Pis (check for daily costumes)